Nov. 21, 2015: Writing Crime/Police Scenes

Brandon StockingJoin us on November 21, 2015, as one of Pleasanton’s finest, Detective Brandon Stocking, shares the ins and outs of writing crime/police scenes with his discussion on the inside story of police investigation. He will present an actual case – a 2013 home invasion robbery. We will learn how a detective works and how the court system works. We will also learn the art of piecing together clues, the serendipitous events that can make wonderful plot twists, and character development from an investigator’s point of view. These are all skills writers of any genre require to create characters that come to life on the page, with a plot that rings true and keeps the reader turning the page.

In addition, Detective Stocking will share some pro tips and resources that are readily accessible to make your courtroom or police work scenes more realistic.

Brandon Stocking joined the Pleasanton Police Department in 2008. He worked as a patrol officer for four years. In 2013 he was assigned to the Criminal Investigations Unit as a detective and investigates crimes against persons. Detective Stocking is the lead investigator of most major or violent crimes in Pleasanton.

He has also served as a volunteer advisor, firearms instructor, and has been a member of the East County Tactical Team for five years.

Detective Stocking has attended numerous certified courses on investigative topics. These topics include Homicide, Robbery, Burglary, Officer Involved Shootings, Gang Investigations, Forensic DNA, Cell Phone Investigations, and Interview and Interrogation. Detective Stocking holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Leadership.