Erica Hutton

Trine University - Jannen School of Arts & Sciences
Trine University-Jannen School of Arts and Sciences
B.S., Liberty University; M.A., Argosy, University, PhD., Capella University
260.665.4211 | Email

Erica Hutton originally joined the Criminal Justice Department at Trine University in 2011. In 2020, she stepped away to pursue a different professional opportunity. After a four-year hiatus, she returned in 2024 and now serves as an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Director of the Cold Case Unit.

A Criminal Psychologist with a specialization in criminal profiling and crime scene investigations, Professor Hutton established the Trine University Cold Case Unit in Fall 2024. This initiative was designed to create collaborative partnerships with law enforcement agencies seeking investigative support. Through this unit, students gain hands-on experience by applying classroom knowledge to complex, unsolved cases—bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Professor Hutton is committed to delivering a dynamic and engaging classroom environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and practical skill development. Her areas of expertise include forensic investigations, criminal profiling, victimology, criminology, forensic psychology, psychopathology, and the study of deviant behavior. Originally from Coastal Virginia, she enjoys traveling to the mountains, quality time with loved ones, collecting tattoos, painting pottery, and publishing research outside of her academic and professional work.