Detective/Investigator

Grants, NM
Grants Police Department

Position Summary:

The Detective/Investigator is responsible for investigating misdemeanor and felony crimes, writes criminal complaints, affidavits, supervises crime scenes, collects evidence, and testifies in court. This position requires daily contact with City Employees, outside agencies, and the general public. This position is a safety sensitive position and subject to random drug testing.

Essential Functions:

  • Respond to in-progress calls required immediate law enforcement assistance.
  • Collect, analyze and preserve evidence.
  • Investigate complex criminal activities or local, federal or state law violations.
  • Direct crime-scene investigators or other law enforcement personnel at crimes scenes.
  • Gather evidence and make informed decisions and conclusions by employing deductive reasoning and
    analysis that leads to prosecution.
  • Write detailed reports, file and maintain all records while maintaining strict confidentiality.
  • Coordinate search and arrest warrants, arresting suspects as necessary.
  • Testify in court about findings and evidence.
  • Receives calls from and assists other law enforcement agencies.
  • Coordinates with supervisor on progress and problems concerning assigned cases.
  • Assists other Detectives with follow-up investigations, and is actively involved in routine gathering of evidence, questioning of witnesses, apprehension of suspects.
  • Provides information and guidance to the public/victims regarding case status and processes.
  • May review reports submitted by officers and /or other Detectives to insure completeness.
  • Undergo continuous training as needed.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of privileged communications and information and complies with privacy laws and regulations
  • Assists with maintaining confidential records, reports and IPRA’s. (Inspect Public Records Request)
  • Promotes and assists with positive relations with City staff, and the general public.
  • Tracks case dispositions for disposal and release of evidence and property.
  • Participates in training. Must attend all mandatory training required by the Police Department and the City.
  • Performs all duties required of a police officer.

Requirements:

  • High School diploma, GED or equivalent required;
  • NMLEA Police Certification
  • Law Enforcement experience of 3-5 years.
  • Must have oral and written communication skills in the English Language.
  • Proven working experience as Criminal Investigator of 3 years or more.
  • Know the rules of evidence pertaining to search and seizure and the preservation and presentation of evidence in court.
  • Hands-on experience with crime scenes analysis and forensic science.
  • Proficient in interpreting evidence and reconstructing events.
  • Ability to observe minute details and to produce detailed reports.
  • In depth knowledge of criminal law, rules and legislation.
  • Familiarity with all evidence types (e.g. circumstantial, direct, trace, hearsay etc) and the rules governing their
    admissibility.
  • Thorough understanding of the investigation process and the unique circumstances of each case.
  • Strong analytical skills along with good interviewing and interrogation skills.
  • Honest and ethical with high levels of integrity and confidentiality.
  • Must possess or be able to acquire a New Mexico Driver’s License and have and maintain a good driving record.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug test and extensive background check.