Crime Scene Investigator (Police Department)

GENERAL PURPOSE:

Under general supervision, performs a variety of tasks associated with the collection, photographing, tracking, handling and safekeeping of crime scene evidence. 

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

Identifies, collects and preserves crime scene and accident scene evidence to aid in the prosecution of criminal and civil cases; documents and maintains chain of custody.

• Collects, develops, preserves, classifies and files latent fingerprints; conducts visual and physical analysis and comparison of crime scene latent prints to local, state and national fingerprint databases.
• Searches out, collects, preserves, logs, examines and secures evidence; documents all handling of evidence and property; maintains activity logs and generates reports as needed.
• Responds to requests for assistance through established protocol.  Responds to emergency and non-emergency calls for service; assists with the identification of evidence at crime scenes; photographs persons, crime scenes and other areas related to investigations.
• Receives property and evidence from law enforcement officers; documents receipt of items and maintains the chain of custody; enters and updates data into computer system; transports evidence to Property Control Office.
• Authorizes release of evidence and crime scenes within scope of authority.
• Develops case files and reports, and prepares technical and statistical reports.
• Maintains laboratory, equipment and property storage areas.
• Prepares necessary documentation and evidence for court; may be required to testify in court.
• Assists and coordinates with other emergency services personnel, outside organizations and businesses, and Federal, state and local law enforcement organizations.
• Maintains the integrity, professionalism, values and goals of the Department by ensuring that all rules and regulations are followed, and that accountability and public trust are preserved.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, or a related field; AND two year’s experience in a law enforcement or criminal justice agency; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Licenses or Certifications:

· Must possess a valid Texas Driver License.

· Successful completion of a background investigation and polygraph is required.

· Completion of required training per department standards

Required Knowledge of:

· City policies and procedures.

· City, county, state and Federal laws, regulations, codes and ordinances.

· Federal and state laws and rules for the collection of crime scene evidence and property.

· Record keeping and technical records management.

· Fingerprint classification, latent fingerprint development methods, and basic forensic procedures.

· Criminal justice and court systems, procedures and protocols in Texas.

· Investigative procedures and protocols for observation of critical details.

· Local community issues and regional community resources available to citizens.

· Geography, roads, and landmarks of City and surrounding areas.

Required Skill in:

· Identifying, collecting, processing and preserving crime scene evidence.

· Maintaining accurate evidence records and generating special and periodic reports.

· Care, maintenance and safe operation of crime scene tools and equipment.

· Technical photography and film processing.

· Collecting, packaging and organizing numerous items of evidence in an orderly fashion for processing.

· Working as a team member with other law enforcement and multi-jurisdictional agencies.

· Interacting with people of different social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.

· Operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of technical and imaging software.

· Communicating clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.

Physical Demands / Work Environment: 

· Work is performed indoors and outdoors, and at crime scenes as needed.  Must be able to work in extreme environmental conditions.

· Must be available to work evening, nights and weekends on an on-call rotational basis.

· Must maintain a level of physical fitness to meet Department standards.

· Out of town travel will be required for some training