Police Detective
Salary: $75502.00 – $77502.00
Position Summary:
The Detective plays a crucial role in the support operations of the Sterling Police Department, leveraging expertise in criminal investigations, crime scene management, evidence processing, and interviews. Detectives are responsible for handling complex cases, ensuring thorough investigations that comply with legal and departmental policies, aiming to bring offenders to justice and maintain community safety. In addition to leading investigations, the Detective supports patrol operations by assisting with active cases, collaborating with officers on scene, and providing expert guidance to ensure efficient case resolution and seamless coordination between divisions.
Essential Functions:
- Crime Scene Management and Evidence Collection:
The Detective is responsible for the secure management of crime scenes, ensuring all physical evidence is properly documented, collected, and preserved according to legal and departmental protocols. They supervise the processing of crime scenes, including photographing and cataloging evidence, ensuring chain of custody is maintained throughout the investigation. - Criminal Investigations:
The Detective conducts thorough investigations into criminal activities, including but not limited to theft, assault, homicide, fraud, and narcotics cases. They gather, analyze, and evaluate evidence from crime scenes, witness statements, and other sources. The Detective leads interviews with victims, witnesses, and suspects, using proven techniques to extract critical information. - Interviewing and Interrogation:
The Detective is proficient in conducting interviews and interrogations of victims, witnesses, and suspects. They apply psychological tactics and investigative strategies to gather relevant information, assess the credibility of statements, and determine the likelihood of suspect involvement. They ensure interviews comply with legal standards and departmental guidelines. - Suspect Apprehension and Arrest:
The Detective participates in the identification, location, and arrest of criminal suspects. They prepare arrest warrants, assist in executing arrests, and ensure that suspects’ rights are upheld throughout the process. The Detective is responsible for the proper documentation and filing of arrest records. - Case File Preparation and Documentation:
The Detective ensures that all case files are thoroughly documented, including witness statements, evidence, and investigative findings. They prepare detailed investigative reports that comply with legal requirements and department standards, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the investigation. The Detective may be required to testify in court about the findings of their investigations. - Coordination with Other Agencies:
The Detective works in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, including federal, state, and local entities, when necessary. They share information, request assistance, and coordinate efforts to solve cases that involve multiple jurisdictions or agencies. - Criminal Analysis and Trends:
The Detective monitors and analyzes crime patterns and trends within the community. They use investigative databases and intelligence to identify potential connections between incidents, suspect profiles, and broader criminal activity. They help develop strategies to address recurring crimes. - Case Follow-up and Continuity:
The Detective ensures that all active investigations are regularly followed up on, ensuring continuity in the case. They maintain communication with victims, witnesses, and relevant parties to update case statuses and gather new information as it becomes available. - Court Preparation and Testimony:
The Detective prepares cases for prosecution, including organizing evidence, preparing exhibits, and presenting findings. They may be required to testify in court, providing expert testimony regarding evidence and investigative procedures. - Training and Professional Development:
The Detective is responsible for keeping up-to-date with current investigative techniques, criminal law, and evidence handling best practices. They participate in continuing education and specialized training courses to improve their investigative skills and stay informed on emerging crime trends. - Patrol Division Support
The Detective provides assistance to the Patrol Division when requested, offering investigative expertise during active cases and collaborating with officers to ensure a seamless flow of information and operations. - Community Relations & Public Engagement
The Detective engages in building and maintaining strong relationships with the community, investigating minor cases likely to attract public attention. They communicate effectively with the public and media to ensure transparency and foster trust in law enforcement efforts.
Requirements:
- High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Minimum of one year of experience as a P.O.S.T.-certified Police Officer
- P.O.S.T. Certified Peace Officer, Level I, by the State of Colorado.
- Specialized detective or criminal investigation training is preferred.
- CPR/First Aid Certification.
- Valid CO driver’s license for the type of City vehicle the detective will operate.
- U.S. Citizenship and minimum age of 21 years.
- Ability to meet the residency requirement for take-home vehicle.