The application of new technologies always seems to improve nearly every aspect of our lives. People now devote themselves to staying on the 'cutting edge.' However, a lot of criminals should stay from being cutting edge since they often wind up on the cutting board.

There are numerous cases of criminals being apprehended because they tweet about where they are, posting photos of the crime on facebook, and even videos of the act posted on youtube. Nearly all of these cases show that those using technology to work 'smarter not harder' didn't realize that using technology to work 'smarter' doesn't mean you're smart.

Take the case of Gerard Ray of Kentucky, who was apprehended in connection to a stolen utility trailer on June 23. The police apprehended Ray since an add on craigslist matching the trailer, drew the owner to find the stolen trailer, complete with identifiable stickers and markings. When Ray denied that he had placed the ad when police arrived to apprehend him, the officers called the number on the add which caused Ray's cell phone to begin ringing in his pocket.

Earlier on June 9, two people were arrested for attempting to sell marijuana. One of them had posted a craigslist add proposing a trade, an ipod and marijuana for an ipad, the ad included a photo of the ipod and the marijuana. Police contacted him and arranged a meeting time, where an undercover detective arrested him and another man.

There are plenty of other examples of poor decisions from criminals on the internet. The two craigslist cases are just the two must recent drops in the bucket that show that detectives and criminal investigators are using new technology to work smarter.

Police officers and detectives are often trained in criminal justice programs to catch technological flubs from suspects. Posting an add for illegal substances or stolen goods could attract police attention, and digital fingerprints are easier to find.

Those interested in becoming a police detective and criminal investigator and catching criminals should check out the criminal justice courses at MyCollegesandCareers.