The Criminal Justice Society at Northern Oklahoma College recently made a strong showing at the 2025 American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA) National Conference and Competition, held in Long Beach, California, March 30-April 4.
This marked the first national competition for the group, and they represented NOC, Oklahoma, and their club with distinction, according to Troy Cochran, Criminal Justice Society advisor and NOC faculty member.
Competing against students from across the country, NOC students participated in a range of rigorous events, including Crime Scene Investigation, Firearms, Knowledge Exams, and Physical Agility.
Students included Yoselin Ramirez, Ponca City; Brian Fredricks, Jr., Ponca City; and Gabriel Liggett, Enid.
Their hard work, training, and teamwork paid off with the following results:
Brian Fredricks Jr. – 3rd Place, Team Firearms
Brian Fredricks Jr., Yoselin Ramirez, and Gabriel Liggett – 3rd Place, Crime Scene Investigation
The same trio also captured 3rd Place in the Lip Sync Talent Show, adding a fun and memorable twist to their successful week.
This year’s conference focused on Human Trafficking, featuring workshops and presentations from experts in the field.
NOC’s students were especially inspired by connecting their Crime Scene Investigation scenario directly to a real international human trafficking case, as shared by investigators who worked the case firsthand. This powerful connection deepened their understanding of the relevance and impact of their training, Cochran said.
“This was the team’s first experience at a national level, and they exceeded expectations,” Cochran said. “I couldn’t be prouder of how they competed, learned, and represented Northern Oklahoma College.”
In addition to guiding the team, Cochran also celebrated a personal milestone during the conference. After serving as Interim National President of ACJA, he was officially elected to a full two-year term, continuing his leadership at the national level.
“The success at this year’s national conference highlights the dedication, talent, and potential of NOC’s Criminal Justice students and their commitment to excellence in the field,” Cochran added.
