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0-5 years of experience
- Oversaw and directed two or more security teams providing protection for both the Sheriff, and visiting dignitaries at various events, meetings, and functions.
- Directed a staff of 10 based on evaluation of available data, volume of work, priorities, and the knowledge and experience of each member of the unit.
- Authored a list to follow in providing “advance” procedures of protection details that was adopted by the department, which has saved time, and facilitated a thorough gathering of essential information.
- Assisted the Criminal Investigation Division, on a need for services basis, investigating crimes such as thefts, burglaries, drug dealing, prostitution, aggravated assaults, and fraudulent activities.
- Identified forgeries performed by a government informant, who was subsequently arrested, and brought to justice.
- Promoted to position of Chief of Staff after one year.
6-10 years of experience
Carried out investigations to prevent or solve criminal cases.
- Served as law Enforcement Liaison to assist the Tennessee Criminal Justice Portal System project team with its successful formulation and implementation of program which became a model at the local and regional level.
- Lead Investigator of the first homicide case successfully prosecuted, based on DNA evidence, in Williamson County, Tennessee resulting in setting case precedence.
- Consistently achieved high case closure and performed in the top five percent of detective ranking.
0-5 years of experience
Lead and directed the investigation of a wide range of crimes including, financial fraud, organized retail theft, and homicide.
- Coordinated the secondary response of investigative personnel and directed all personnel on scene.
- Collaborated extensively with outside agencies and companies to gather information to further investigations.
- Generated detailed reports including, probable cause affidavits, search warrants, subpoenas, court orders, and departmental reports.
- Responsible for court testimony and trial presentations.
- Responsible for the majority of investigations involving computer related crimes.
- Implemented and maintained several investigative resources including, video software, social media websites, and data mining resources.
- Responsible for promotional interviews and training new hires within the detective division.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted personnel investigations involving accusations of serious misconduct by department members
- Conducted data mining of various data bases to gather investigative facts
- Met with and interviewed complainants, witnesses and subjects
- Established and maintained professional relationship with union members and legal representatives
- Prepared complex investigative reports and testified in departmental disciplinary proceedings
- Communicated with all levels of management across divisional lines including the Legal Section, Fiscal Section and Human Resources
10+ years of experience
Participated in the Mid-Hudson Narcotics Task Force based in Newburgh, New York from September 2005 – January 2007. Responsible for investigating and dismantling narcotics operations resulting in a high volume of criminal convictions of narcotics traffickers in Orange, Ulster and Sullivan Counties. Participated in undercover narcotics purchases from dealers in Orange County and Ulster County. As a Case Agent running undercover operations in Sullivan County, produced numerous seizures of narcotics and weapons generating the arrests and convictions of numerous narcotics traffickers.
- Conducted investigations which involved collecting records, evidence handling, surveillance, handling confidential informants and interviewing witnesses, suspects and victims.
- Planned and conducted surveillance and undercover work.
- Examined crime scenes, gathered evidence and coordinated with laboratories for analysis when necessary.
- Organized information and examined records in order to uncover links between crimes and criminal relationships.
- Prepared investigative reports and obtained and issued search and arrest warrants.
- Arranged lie detector tests for witnesses and suspects.
- Testified in legal hearings.
- Supported the Detective Sergeant and Police Chief in performing investigative functions.
0-5 years of experience
Assisted District Loss Prevention Manager with the development of detectives.
- Developed best practices to help district detectives work more efficiently and effectively.
- Established a method to catalog data for trending analysis at detective level.
- District 1305 Operational readiness assessment auditor.
- Partnered with National Task Force on organized retail crime.
0-5 years of experience
Investigated crimes involving a gun. Arrived on scene and directed all investigation activities.
- Determined need for additional responders and whom to interview, called in evidence technicians, and brought perpetrators and suspects to police station then interviewed them to investigate the crime.
- Wrote extensive investigation reports, affidavits, applications for search warrants, and official charges.
- Followed up on gun sightings reported on city TIP line. Reviewed city videos and performed surveillance.
0-5 years of experience
- Conducts surveillance, Interviewing, and Interrogation
- Responsible for heightening store Loss Prevention awareness
- Install and utilize CCTV equipment
0-5 years of experience
Conducted investigations relating to the sale of controlled substances by groups or individuals.
- Conducted buy and bust drug operations.
- Managed case files for identifying suspects in long term case operations
- Obtained and executed search warrants.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted various investigations on criminal cases involving multi agencies.
- Supervised and trained new hires.
- Assisted in creating and executing policies and guidelines for the department at the Chiefs direction.
- Assisted the Chief in preparing monthly UCR and racial profiling reports.
- Interviewed and conducted background investigations on new applicants.
6-10 years of experience
Protect the assets of the company externally by making arrests of shoplifters, interrogating them on their theft.
- Prepare detailed arrest reports documenting stolen items.
- Internal research on employees using SIS/FSS (Fraud Security Systems) program, creating and analyzing reports.
- Conducted internal interviews to investigate why the employee has committed a policy violation or crime.
- Member of the Internal Task Force, which is a special organized team of Detectives from each store in the district; designed to target employee theft.
- Maintain a working relationship with Santa Ana Police department.
0-5 years of experience
Investigated a variety of felony level crimes including grand larceny, malicious wounding, and robbery by conducting interviews of victims and witnesses
- Documented interviews and evidence and provided case summaries to supervisors, magistrates, and the Commonwealth Attorney
- Participated in court hearings by providing written reports/evidence and verbal testimonies
- Provided training and supervision for detectives new to the division
6-10 years of experience
Responsible for criminal investigations of all reported crimes in the Town of Orangetown.
- Investigations conducted have resulted in the successful prosecution for crimes such as homicide, multi-million dollar white-collar crime, rape, narcotic wiretap investigations, and grand larceny.
- Investigated and coordinated with numerous other agencies local and state in investigating and dismantling a dangerous street gang in the Village of Nyack, New York.
- Certified Sex Crimes investigator responsible for the successful closure of numerous sex abuse cases.
- Certified Juvenile investigator responsible for investigating and processing all cases of juvenile delinquency coming to his attention.
- Investigated complaints of abandoned, neglected and abused children.
0-5 years of experience
Narcotics Task Force
- Worked in an Undercover capacity conducting covert operations.
- Conducted Enforcement using buy and bust operations while utilizing surveillance equipment in a safe manner.
- Conducted investigations of cases assigned.
- Developed sources of information through the use of community and Confidential Informants and advise supervisor.
- Documented all actions taken during the course of an investigation and file in case folder.
- Prepared reports accurately and forward in a timely fashion
0-5 years of experience
Lead Investigator and member of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC)Taskforce
- Designed and conducted physical surveillance of criminal activity and suspects
- Conducted interviews of victims, witnesses, and suspects
- Prepared and managed multiple case files
- Testified for prosecution of felony cases
- Prepared detailed and accurate reports of investigations
- Participated as undercover officer
- Assigned to the heroin overdose death investigation team
- Commercial and residential burglary investigation
0-5 years of experience
Maintained excellent relations with management, customers, clients, train, evaluate and supervise staff
- Conducted staff training in theft detection
- Conducted operational audit
- Provided physical security
- Performed internal and external camera surveillance
- Represent company in court cases
- Detected and apprehended shoplifters and detected and investigated fraudulent workers
6-10 years of experience
- Acted in an undercover capacity purchasing controlled drugs and obtaining evidence to aid in prosecution of drug traffickers.
- Conducted covert surveillance utilizing electronic and photographic surveillance equipment.
- Wrote search and arrest warrants needed to obtain evidence and arrest suspects.
- Acted as affiant/case agent on numerous Telephone Wiretaps resulting in the arrest of several high level members of drug trafficking organizations and identity fraud rings. These investigations led to the seizure of millions of dollars in drugs and illicitly derived proceeds.
- Searched for and collected evidence, in conformance with standardized procedures, to be utilized in prosecution of offenders.
- Provided testimony in US Federal and NH State Courts necessary for the conviction of offenders.
- Interviewed witnesses to criminal acts, suspects, victims, informants, and others in order to obtain relevant information to be used in furtherance of investigations.
0-5 years of experience
Facilitated the 2013-2015 Department of Justice VAWA/INVEST Grant Contract between the Broward Sheriff’s Office and FCADV (Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence). The grant’s main focus was on reducing intimate partner domestic violence homicides through criminal justice accountability. Tasks included training over 600 law enforcement officers at the local/county/state/international level, creating training materials for officers to effective handle domestic violence crimes, assistance to over 300 domestic violence survivors, apprehension/arrest of offenders, and working with prosecution to file successful case for court presentation.
- Presented domestic violence law enforcement training to the Royal Bahamian Police in December 2013 on behalf of the US Department of State and the US Bahamian Embassy.
- Conducted investigations in reference to domestic violence-related crimes such as attempted murder, aggravated battery/assault, and stalking.
- Conducted investigations in reference to sexual assault/battery crimes and child abuse.
10+ years of experience
Investigate numerous complex criminal activities including homicide, Rape, theft, fraud and many others.
- Maintain close relationships with local and federal law enforcement.
- Interviewed witnesses; interrogated and arrested suspects.
- Responsible for keeping detailed reports and testifying in court for successful prosecution.
- Responsible for major crime scene photography.
0-5 years of experience
I investigated domestic violence, rapes, child molestation, child abuse, and sexual assaults. Established rapport with victims and developed leads through extensive interviews. I prepared detailed reports for the District Attorney’s Office leading to successful prosecutions. Worked closely with victims to help them maintain the courage to press charges, and explained The Circle of Violence philosophy to them.
- Offered 2 two-year extensions (maximum allowed) as Detective based on outstanding performance.
- All yearly evaluations Above Standard or Excellent.
- Never had a search warrant refused.
- Regularly reactivate and solve cold cases based on evidence and patterns from new cases.
- One of two out of 12 selected for Detective position.
10+ years of experience
Investigative Assignments: Chief of Detectives Office, Major Case Squad, Bias Incident Investigative Unit, and Organized Crime Control Bureau.
- Lead investigator in crimes involving; Homicide, Robbery, Organized Burglary, Missing Persons, Sexual and Non-Sexual Physical Assault, Kidnapping, Fraud.
- Coordinated forensic investigative resources in the collection of crime scene evidence at bank robberies.
- Conducted thousands of interrogations of suspects and interviews of victims and witnesses
- Conducted physical and electronic surveillance of Organized Crime figures.
- Lead investigator on Cold Case Double Police Officer Homicide, traveling throughout the US to conduct interview and interrogations of witnesses and suspects.
0-5 years of experience
Protect the university students and residents of the City of Norfolk
- Enforce the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia
- Patrol on foot, bicycle and motor vehicle; remaining vigilant at all times
- Work with other law enforcement officials including neighboring city, state jurisdictions and federal agencies to investigate crimes and complaints within the concurrent jurisdiction.
- Assisted other members of the department in writing and formulating a new Field Training Program by revising the Field Training Officer Manual
- Trained and instructed new recruits on policies and policing techniques.
- Currently a Detective assigned to Investigations Unit investigating various crimes that occur on campus and within the concurrent jurisdiction
- Provided excellent customer service to the campus community
0-5 years of experience
Promoted to Lead Detective January 1,2014
- In addition to Loss Prevention Detective duties listed above, I am responsible for motivating entire staff to keep a positive mindset to achieve our shortage goals
- In the absence of an APM during the month of June-September I stepped up as a leader. The store received a corporate shortage audit of 86% and 85% in Fine Jewelry
- Attended SRMs during the absence of an APM
- Conducted an interview of an dishonest employee
- Was Detective of the Month of September
0-5 years of experience
Detected and apprehended external theft.
- Investigated incidents of internal theft throughout a high volume multi-store enviornment.
- Installed covert cameras and reviewed media.
- Partnered with LP associates to resolve internal theft cases.
- Conducted loss prevention activities, lead meetings and educational programs for store staff.
- Identifying all forms of loss, motivating shortage control involvement and helping identify creative shortage control solutions.
0-5 years of experience
Redeployed into this highly visible role at a time of significant increase in drug trafficking – at the local, state and national level. Worked cooperatively with law enforcement personnel from various levels of government.
- Participated in numerous undercover assignments. Worked on some highly publicized cases.
- Developed expertise in writing warrants, applying for wiretap approval, and the probable cause standard.
- Collaborated with the FBI, Customs Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
6-10 years of experience
Specialize in Sex Crimes Investigation of reported cases of sexual assault and sexual abuse
- Responsible for gathering facts, identifying the offender, causing the arrest and presenting the case to the court
- Effective enforcement of legal protection orders
- Expertise in child and adult interview techniques
- Act as an information and referral source for the victim
- Obtain photos and medical records of the victim’s injuries
- Obtain 911tapes and research a suspect’s prior history
0-5 years of experience
Assigned to the Office of Professional Standards
- Conducted internal departmental investigations
- Insured department compliance of building site safety.
- Insured the integrity of departmental procedures as related to the public.
- Thoroughly investigated complaints made against City Police and City Fire Department personnel.
- Conducted background checks and interviews of potential police and fire department applicants.
- Worked with outside agencies and civilian groups to maintain the department’s integrity and trust with the public.
0-5 years of experience
- Deterred the theft of property, implementing company internal and/or external risk procedures.
- Implemented training of new officers in the basic detection of shoplifters.
- Promoted to Lead Detective and received Detective of the Quarter within six months of employment.
10+ years of experience
Founding member of Critical Incident Response Team responding to major incident investigations along with homicide detectives related to officer involved shootings or large scene documentation and diagramming
- Provide extensive analysis and complex documentation as lead investigator of the more sensitive and complicated collision investigations
- Developed and implemented new police procedures for the Metro Light Rail System
- Lead investigations from time of incident through prosecution
- Obtain and serve search warrants on criminal investigations, including Murder, Manslaughter, Aggravated Assault and Endangerment
- Instruct and mentor to new detectives
- Act as software systems administrator for the Unit
10+ years of experience
- Investigator/Detective. Trained to conduct investigations into registered complaints and reports. On call 24 hours.
- Evidence Technician. Recovered any materials pertinent to the resolution of open criminal cases. On call 24 hours.
- Domestic Violence Liaison. Assisted persons in the lawful resolution of issues stemming from domestic related problems.
- Patrolman. Performed normal duties; traffic and DUI enforcement.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted the investigations of firearm traffickers
- Facilitated and executed search warrants for illegal firearms and narcotics, which lead to many arrest
- Kept potential subjects under strict surveillance
- Apprehended and transported criminals
6-10 years of experience
Loss Prevention
- Recovered stolen merchandise and apprehend shoplifters and other customers who commit fraud or other criminal acts against Macy’s
- Prepared prompt and complete reports relative to all theft incidents, merchandise recoveries, accident investigations, adults and other activities as assigned by the Security Manager
- Conducted audits to ensure Sales department compliance to merchandise exposure standards and lost prevention
- Testified in court concerning any case, criminal or civil, wherein the Company is a party in interest to which the Detective is summoned
10+ years of experience
Investigate all crimes committed, including homicide, robbery, burglary, assault, etc.
- Provide training for newly assigned detectives
- Conduct computer checks and network with corporate entities to assist in investigations
- Compile and decipher crime statistics in an effort to design response efforts to reduce or eliminate crime trends
- Conduct surveillance and maintain intricate surveillance system equipment
- Responsible for beginning and maintaining dialogue during hostage negotiations in an effort to bring situation to a successful conclusion
- Successfully managed a significant caseload, ensuring proper attention to each case with a focus on solving crimes and reducing complaints
- Provided specialized protection services for visiting political and other dignitaries
- Received two line promotions at discretion of Police Commissioner to Detective 3rd
0-5 years of experience
Investigate and apprehend persons suspected of illegal sale of drugs or narcotics.
- Work in an undercover capacity to infiltrate and prosecute drug trafficking organizations.
- Work with different media types to compile evidence and protect undercover investigator.
- Took part in 100+ arrests of drug and narcotics offenders.
- Obtain statements for prosecution of offenders and appear in court as witness.
- Work with task force members to compile and analyze computer data for drug and narcotics investigations.
- Research drug trafficking organizations before writing debriefs of potential targets.
- Edit and present debriefs to command staff
6-10 years of experience
Investigate and document criminal offenses including homicide, vehicular manslaughter, aggravated
assaults, sexual offenses and juvenile crimes
- Financial Crimes Investigator – Specialize in employee theft, white collar crime, fraud and forgeries
- Work with financial institution and victims to gain restitution
- Supervise and direct patrol officers during on scene investigations
- Manage caseload with minimum supervision
- 24 hours on call; including weekends and holidays
- Collaborate with criminal prosecutors on city, county, district and federal level
- Testify in criminal court
10+ years of experience
- Assigned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau of the [company name] for six years.
- Served as the Omaha Police North Gang Intelligence Officer with responsibilities including the compilation and analysis of information about gang members and activity, production of intelligence information, database research, development and presentation of training materials, providing education to colleagues and the community regarding gang activity, and public speaking.
- Worked as the Senior Detective in the North Gang Suppression Squad, a tactical specialty unit that focuses on firearms and narcotics crimes committed by gang members.
- Routinely employed anti-gang investigative tactics, techniques, and procedures in an effort to suppress gang activity.
- Regularly collaborated with the other investigative units regarding crimes involving gang members.
- Developed strong working relationships with surrounding law enforcement agencies as well as the Douglas County Attorney’s Office and United States Attorney’s Office.
0-5 years of experience
Assigned to the Camden City Strategic Multi-Agency Shooting and Homicide Unit (S.M.A.S.H).
- Responsible for investigating all shootings and homicides, interviewing and interrogate witnesses and suspects, notifications (Family, Next of Kin etc.) securing and canvassing crime scenes.
- Responsible for investigating armed robberies, narcotic enterprises as well as criminal matters relating to gun violence.
- Prepare search warrants, affidavits and subpoenas.
- Compile enough evidence, probable cause and facts to issue complaint warrants / subpoenas for crimes relating to murder, aggravated assault and weapons offenses.
- Testify in Grand Jury, Municipal, Superior Court, Federal proceedings and court related matters.
0-5 years of experience
Currently assigned to DEA San Antonio District Office; conduct investigations on High Level Drug Trafficking Organizations.
- Assist [company name] Criminal Investigation Division with on going cases.
- Establish and maintain positive working relationships with court staff, defense attorneys, Judges, Federal Prosecutors, San Antonio Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration agents, Federal Bureau of Investigations agents, Alcohol Tobacco Firearms agents, Department of Homeland Security and numerous county agencies.
- Regularly assigned to narcotics unit and criminal investigations unit to assist in follow-up investigations, execution of search warrants, and serving warrants of arrest.
- Performance of fingerprinting and photographing crime scenes.
- Completion of offense reports to aid Prosecutors in the prosecution of law violators.
- Assist less experienced officers in safety concerns, investigations, and communications with elected officials.
0-5 years of experience
- Completed daily and monthly safety and shrink audits of the store.
- Made the weekly schedules for the loss prevention team.
- Only male detective in the district to be certified for make fitting room stops.
- Trained new employees on company policies.
- Led the district in external apprehensions in the four quarter every year.
0-5 years of experience
- Responsible for monitoring the sales floor via CCTV to prevent internal and external theft.
- Apprehended, processed, and prosecuted shoplifters based on the policies and procedures.
- Conducted monthly audits throughout the store.
- Was promoted to Lead Detective in May 2013.
- Was nominated as the North Florida District Detective of the Month in July 2013.
10+ years of experience
- Provide quality office assistance to detective bureau of seven detectives and four senior officers, while providing support to patrol force of forty
- Recorded and revised all written reports, working to type all court complaints regarding juveniles and transcribing all witness and victim statements as needed
- Maintained all office documents, including the creation of new forms, filing of sensitive documents and drafting of written communication
- Accurately worked to compile data for reports including arrest information, juvenile records and state reports
- Collected the annual fee for various borough permit applications; including taxi, firearms, handicap and solicitor; updating documents as needed for efficiency
- Improved office efficiency with the implementation of a new arrest record/photo line-up software and added documents to the borough web-site to create easier user interface
- Facilitated accurate communication between the borough police department and local, state and federal agencies; including daily indictable case log to the county prosecutor’s office
- Responded to all office calls, appropriately directing borough citizens’ concerns to the correct department or personnel
- Presented all office guests with quality customer care, correctly addressing their questions and concerns
10+ years of experience
Investigating numerous violent crimes including homicide, sexual assault, robbery, child abuse and domestic violence
- Carefully document statements, observations and evidentiary materials
- Conduct interviews with victims and witnesses
- Draft and execute subpoenas, search warrants and surveillance activities
- Interview and interrogate suspects both in and out of custody
- Present evidence at criminal trials
- Collaborate with federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF
- Gather necessary information for court appearances and testified as a witness under oath in court
0-5 years of experience
Complete all security training requirements and maintain personal certifications as required by law
- Understand and maintain strict compliance with the law and company policies concerning apprehensions, search and seizure and the preservation of evidence
- Conduct audits to ensure sales department compliance to merchandise exposure standards
- Recover stolen merchandise and apprehend shoplifters and other customers who commit criminal acts against [company name]
- Investigate criminal violations against the person or property of any customer or associate committed on company premises
- Identify suspicious activity that leads to shoplifting
10+ years of experience
Currently assigned to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives as a Task Force Officer with full Federal Arrest Powers.
- Currently assigned to the Quick Reaction Force/Entry Team, Rappel Master, and Explosive Breacher for the [company name] SWAT Team.
- Provides in-service training for new officers of Gang Violence and Gang Investigations.
- Instructor for Florida Gang Investigators Association conducts Palm Beach County Gang Violence Awareness Seminars to civic organizations, government officials.
- Perform Patrol duties, investigate crimes, conduct crime scene investigations, report writing, provides testimony for depositions, trials.
- Former Sniper on Boynton Beach Police SWAT Team, previously assigned to the Palm Beach County Violent Crimes Task Force/Gang Unit, South Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas/Gang Suppression Task Force.
6-10 years of experience
- Created the Beth Israel Police Departments Investigations Unit.
- Supervise 3 Massachusetts Special State Police Investigators.
- Developed polices, procedures and assist the department’s command staff with planning, organizing and directing efficient operation of the Investigations Unit.
- Lead Detective for all sensitive investigations involving the medical center.
- Provide briefings to senior members of management.
0-5 years of experience
Currently assigned to Bethesda Investigative Section as a Detective Sergeant in charge of managing detectives investigating attempted murder, robbery, kidnapping, felony theft, burglary, fraud, sex offenses
- Provide weekly and monthly reports using Microsoft Excel, Word, and Access
- Manage unit overtime expenditures, case assignments, crime scenes, search warrant execution
- Complete employee performance appraisals and commend/discipline employees appropriately
- Manage scheduling and training for employees
- Participate in numerous meetings with administration
- Organize and facilitate meetings for Bethesda Investigative Unit
10+ years of experience
Conduct long term complex investigations involving identity theft and insurance fraud
- Supervise personnel, resources and equipment involving joint agency operations
- Formulate and execute precinct operations to target spikes in auto related crimes
- Liaison to city, state, federal and national insurance crime bureau agents
- Investigate tow facilities and auto body repair shops regarding enhanced damage complaints
- Assist major insurance carriers with multiple claim review to determine criminality
- Recognized expert status in the field of motor vehicle theft and valuation
- Locate, produce and safeguard witnesses necessary for high profile trials
- Experienced in financial crimes, money laundering and asset recovery investigations
0-5 years of experience
- Investigate Shootings and Serious Aggravated Assaults.
- Manage crime scenes through documentation and preservation.
- Interview and interrogate witnesses/suspects.
- Obtain Arrest Warrants, Search 7 Seizure Warrants, Grand Jury indictments to make arrest.
- Work with Assistant States Attorneys to prosecute case.
6-10 years of experience
Performing investigations for private & cooperate clients.
- Providing detailed reports to clients that could be used in civil or criminal court.
- Participate in court room testimony to regards to investigations performed.
- Management of sub-contractors.
- Performing covert surveillance of individuals or groups at the request of clients.
- Performing service of civil process.
- Locating, detaining, and transporting of fugitives currently not in compliance with terms of bail.
6-10 years of experience
Selected after 9/11 to provide investigations and surveillance of all domestic threats to the Tri-State area.
- Was assigned to the Threat Response team, which responds to and investigates over 4,000 tips/leads a year.
- Conduct highly sensitive and confidential investigations.
- Have over 15 years in investigative assignments.
- Hazmat Technician Course (Homeland Security)
- WMD Radiological Nuclear Course (Homeland Security)
- Tactical Weapon Training (FBI)
- Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings Course (Homeland Security)
- Tactical Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (FBI)
- Dignitary and Executive Protection Training (NYPD)
- Photographic and Video Surveillance Course (FBI)
Detective Duties and Responsibilities
A detective’s role varies based on the agency and department. However, there are several key tasks common to all detectives, including:
Interview Witnesses Detectives interview all witnesses present at a crime scene and call them again for further questioning if needed. As they uncover additional witnesses, they either visit them for an interview or ask them to come into the station to give a statement or respond to questions.
Interrogate Suspects Detectives may speak to several people they suspect of committing the crime before charging someone. They interview each suspect to determine where they were during the crime and to ask questions that could uncover a possible motive. To get the suspects to open up, detectives need to know how to establish rapport as well as pick up on inconsistencies in their stories.
Arrest Suspects If detectives identify a suspect and compile sufficient evidence to prove they committed the crime, they arrest and charge the person with one or more crimes.
Conduct Raids Sometimes detectives must catch criminals in the act of committing a crime to charge them. Or, they may anticipate a dangerous situation when attempting to arrest a suspect. In these cases, they commit raids or stings in collaboration with other departments such as the SWAT team.
Maintain Thorough Records Detectives document every aspect of their investigation, from witness statements to actions they’ve noticed while observing suspects. They log every piece of evidence they collect or handle and keep a record of any time they access stored evidence as part of their investigation.
Detective Skills and Qualifications
Detectives may need different skills depending on the size of their police force and the department they’re assigned to. However, we’ve identified a few core qualities that all police detectives share:
- Physical fitness – being a police officer is physically demanding, and many police departments have strict physical requirements to enter the academy and stay on the force
- Knowledge of investigative principles – uncovering the truth behind a crime is a complex process, and detectives must know how to analyze evidence and witness statements to get started in the right direction
- Legal knowledge – detectives use their deep understanding of how the legal system works to ensure everything they do is admissible in court. This includes knowing the proper procedure for arresting someone or interrogating them, the legal methods for collecting evidence, and the various criminal charges and what they mean
- First aid – a detective may need to administer first aid or CPR to a victim or to fellow officers at a crime scene
- People skills – it’s important that detectives know how to read people so they can learn to sense when a witness or suspect is lying, and so they can change their approach depending on the person. In addition, they work closely with their partner and regularly collaborate with fellow officers from their own department and others
- Empathy – as part of their investigation, detectives often interview witnesses and victims who are traumatized. They also use their empathetic skills to look at the case from a wide range of perspectives, including witnesses, victims, and suspects
- Leadership and poise – detectives take charge of the situation and use their natural leadership ability and persuasiveness to encourage people to open up to them. They stay calm even during a crisis or heated situation, and sometimes testify during court cases, which requires them to convince the jury of their take on the case. In addition, they give instructions to other officers at the scene and during the course of the investigation
Detective Education and Training
Education and training requirements vary by department, but all detectives must be at least 21 years old and a US citizen to enter the police force. They need at least a high school diploma or GED. They start out as uniformed officers and work their way up, becoming eligible for a promotion to detective only after several years of experience and increasing responsibility. Some departments also require a degree in law enforcement or a related field. Many agencies won’t accept police candidates who have a criminal record, especially any felonies, or who have a history of drug use.
Detective Salary and Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), detectives earn a median annual salary of $62,900. Those at the top 10 percent earn an annual salary of $105,230, and those at the bottom 10 percent earn an annual salary of $35,780. The BLS expects employment opportunities for detectives to grow 7 percent through 2026, which is about as fast as the average growth of other occupations. Demand for detectives varies based on geographic location and individual budgets, as well as by turnover, which tends to be low.
Helpful Resources
Ready to transition from uniformed officer to top-ranked police detective? We’ve compiled some valuable resources to help you on your journey:
International Homicide Investigators Association – network with fellow detectives from around the United States and even the world through this professional association that offers training and symposiums
International Police Association – this worldwide friendship organization for police officers offers networking opportunities and exchange programs as well as training programs
How to Become a Police Detective: A 21st Century Guide to Getting Hired in Law Enforcement – Detective Alan K. Ashcroft guides readers on their journey toward getting accepted by a police department, with tips on how agencies choose candidates and what they can expect during the interview process
Detective Inspector – after you’ve made your way through the ranks and are ready to move up to a detective role, prepare for your detective exam with this comprehensive guide. Learn about proper investigative procedures, writing reports, understanding state laws, and more
Homicide Detective Red-Hot Career Guide – you’ve got the experience and the knowledge, now impress your superiors with this intensive guide to preparing for your interview for a homicide detective position
Law Enforcement Cover Letter Examples
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Last edited by: Gabriela Barcenas, CPRW, Content Writer II -
Gabriela Barcenas
CPRW, Content Writer IIGabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and career adviser. With 10 years of digital media experience and five years of resume writing expertise, her publication history includes fashion, education, travel, social justice, equitable design and career advice.
