PD – Police Detective

Colonial Beach, VA
Town of Colonial Beach Police Department

Salary: $52,039.49.

Position Summary:

The Police Detective will be responsible for criminal investigations of all felonies and other such misdemeanors that require extended investigation. Work of this class requires regular public contact with a high degree of tact, judgment, and technical knowledge. Performs all duties as described in the Police Officers job description and all other duties as assigned. Answers to the Field Operations Commander.

Essential Functions:

  • Examine crime scenes to obtain clues and evidence, such as loose hairs, fibers, clothing, or weapons
  • Secure deceased body and obtain evidence from it, preventing bystanders from tampering with it prior to medical examiner’s arrival.
  • Obtain evidence from suspects.
  • Provide testimony as a witness in court.
  • Analyze completed police reports to determine what additional information and investigative work is needed.
  • Prepare charges or responses to charges, or information for court cases, according to formalized procedures.
  • Note, mark, and photograph location of objects found, such as footprints, tire tracks, bullets and bloodstains, and take measurements of the scene.
  • Obtain facts or statements from complainants, witnesses, and accused persons and record interviews, using recording device.
  • Obtain summary of incident from officer in charge at crime scene, taking care to avoid disturbing evidence.
  • Examine records and governmental agency files to find identifying data about suspects.
  • Prepare and serve search and arrest warrants.
  • Block or rope off scene and check perimeter to ensure that entire scene is secured.
  • Summon medical help for injured individuals and alert medical personnel to take statements from them.
  • Provide information to lab personnel concerning the source of an item of evidence and tests to be performed.
  • Monitor conditions of victims who are unconscious so that arrangements can be made to take statements if consciousness is regained.
  • Secure persons at scene, keeping witnesses from conversing or leaving the scene before investigators arrive.
  • Preserve, process, and analyze items of evidence obtained from crime scenes and suspects, placing them in proper containers and destroying evidence no longer needed.
  • Record progress of investigation, maintain informational files on suspects, and submit reports to commanding officer or magistrate to authorize warrants.
  • Take photographs from all angles of relevant parts of a crime scene, including entrance and exit routes and streets and intersections.
  • Organize scene search, assigning specific tasks and areas of search to individual officers and obtaining adequate lighting as necessary.
  • Question individuals or observe persons and establishments to confirm information given to patrol officers.
  • Notify, or request notification of, medical examiner or district attorney representative.
  • Note relevant details upon arrival at scene, such as time of day and weather conditions. Participate or assist in raids and arrests.
  • Videotape scenes where possible, including collection of evidence, examination of victim at scene, and defendants and witnesses.
  • Coordinate with outside agencies and serve on interagency task forces to combat specific types of crime.
  • Maintain surveillance of establishments to obtain identifying information on suspects.
  • Notify command of situation and request assistance.
  • Schedule polygraph tests for consenting parties and record results of test interpretations for presentation with findings.
  • Check victims for signs of life, such as breathing and pulse.
  • Observe and photograph narcotic purchase transactions to compile evidence and protect undercover investigators.

Requirements:

  • Knowledge and experience in police operations and criminal investigations.
  • Strong understanding of law enforcement procedures and protocols.
  • Solid investigative and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work well under pressure and make quick decisions.
  • Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
  • Physical fitness and stamina.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • VA LE Certification is required.
  • Prior investigative experience is desired.