Investigator

The purpose of this classification is to conduct case investigations in preparation for court action, to include gathering information, interviewing witnesses, locating evidence, reconstructing crime scenes, and making recommendations regarding case direction/strategy.

 

The following duties are normal for this position.  The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.  Other duties may be required and assigned.

Manages caseload of investigations; identifies priorities and plans investigations; ensures case preparations are completion by scheduled court dates; maintains case files; ensures presence of all pertinent documentation in case files; prepares investigative reports of findings.

Conducts investigations and gathers information into the facts regarding an alleged offense, the criminal status of a defendant, or other situation in preparation for court action; reviews police reports, medical records, crime laboratory reports, Department of Family & Children Services reports, criminal history reports, driving history reports, crime scene photographs/videotapes, defendant/witness statements, and other documentation; takes photographs of crime scenes; reconstructions crime scenes and draws diagrams.

Locates and interviews witnesses, defendants, victims, officers, or other individuals involved in cases; issues subpoenas to obtain testimony in court from various individuals in relation to cases; locates, protects, documents, and reviews evidence associated with cases.

Assists with preparation of cases for court; coordinates availability of witnesses, victims, and officers for testimony at trial; retrieves, secures, and transports evidence for presentation in court; initiates and executes search warrants; serves court papers; prepares exhibits for court; makes duplicate copies of audio/video tapes.

Reviews cases with prosecutors; provides case information and makes recommendations regarding case direction/strategy; assists with decisions whether to prosecute a defendant or whether to arrest a suspect; recommends course of action for felony cases; recommend case dismissals as appropriate.

Arrests and detains criminal perpetrators.

Assists prosecutors during court proceedings; testifies in court as needed; attends calendar calls.

Conducts research of computer records, Internet sites, hardcopy materials, or other sources as needed; compiles data, analyzes data, and identifies trends/patterns; summarizes data and prepares reports.

Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, investigative reports, case files, witness lists, warrants, subpoenas, crime scene diagrams, presentation materials, mileage reports, or other documents.

Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, police reports, medical records, crime laboratory reports, Department of Family & Children Services reports, criminal history reports, driving history reports, drug/alcohol reports, photographs, video tapes, defendant/witness statements, laws, codes, maps, policies, procedures, handbooks, manuals, directories, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate.

Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, spreadsheet, database, e-mail, Internet, or other computer programs.

Operates/utilizes a variety of equipment and tools associated with work activities, which may include a motor vehicle, firearm, handcuffs, camera, tape recorder, tape duplicator, VCR, pager, general office equipment, or telephone.

Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, Judges, court personnel, attorneys, defendants, victims, witnesses, law enforcement personnel, laboratory personnel, government agencies, mediators, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.

Attends meetings and makes presentations as needed.

Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge of applicable laws/regulations; maintains professional affiliations; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

This classification is designated as a safety sensitive position that is subject to random drug and alcohol testing and any other drug testing methods as stated in policies adopted by Forsyth County concerning drug and alcohol.

Performs general/clerical tasks, which may include answering telephone calls, sending/receiving faxes, making copies, filing documentation, or processing incoming/outgoing mail.

Performs other related duties as required.

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Social Sciences or a related field; supplemented by completion of basic police officer training program; supplemented by one (1) year previous experience and/or training involving law enforcement, criminal investigation, and court/judicial system procedures; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess and maintain valid Georgia P.O.S.T. Peace Officer certification. Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.