POLICE DETECTIVE

Performs technical law enforcement work as a non-uniformed police officer in the investigation of crime and the detection and prevention of violations of the law. Regular attendance is required to perform the duties of this position. Performs skilled investigative work involving alleged crimes against persons or property, in the office and the field under minimal supervision. Obtains written or tape-recorded statements, depositions, or admissions. Questions or interrogates complainants, witnesses and suspects; Apprehends suspects and makes arrests. Prepares and serves search warrants. Searches crime scenes for and secures evidence to be collected. Provides for witness or victim preparation and management, including transportation as required. Contacts other agencies and law enforcement jurisdictions to exchange information, including but not limited to military, NCIC, FBI, DEA, ATF and other criminal history or intelligence resources. Responds to the Lea County Correctional Facility (LCCF) for investigation and scene processing of all “on site” felony crimes, preparing and submitting the proper report(s) as well as obtaining necessary search and arrest warrants. Prepares, submits and follows up on crime laboratory requests. Reviews cases being prepared for trial with emphasis on the evidentiary and legal issues crucial to successful prosecution. Prepares detailed reports of activities and investigations made; Consults with prosecutors and prepares case reports for court action; Testifies in court. Assists in obtaining, enhancing, preparing or presenting exhibits or other evidence in court as required. Coordinates with Medical Examiner assigned to handle death investigations; Attends autopsies as required. Responds to Hospice Death scenes, conducting a brief investigation of the scene, observing the destruction of decedent’s medications, preparing and submitting the proper report. Conducts sensitive investigations into allegations of official misconduct or violations of law by public officials or police officers. Conducts detailed criminal case analysis following the arrest of a suspect, with emphasis on counteracting specific legal defenses. Assists in case reviews or plea-bargaining negotiations with defense counsel as requested by the prosecuting attorney. Performs fingerprinting (latent), photography and other types of laboratory testing. Conducts narcotics investigations, including the field testing of suspected controlled substances. Locates and interviews those listed on defense witness lists, as required. Assists in providing training to department officers in the area of criminal investigations. Maintains normal availability by pager, radio or telephone; Assumes responsibility and command of those crime scenes assigned for investigation. Carries out duties in conformance with Federal, State, County, and City laws and ordinances. Maintains proficiency with authorized and issued weapons. Education and Experience : Graduation from high school or GED equivalent. Minimum of 2 years law enforcement experience, Completion of a State Basic Training Academy and the ability to obtain a New Mexico Law Enforcement Certification. Desired Qualifications Certified law enforcement officer with at least one year serving in an investigation’s capacity. Knowledge and experience in working with computer forensics, ballistic comparisons, shooting reconstruction, fingerprint identification, sex crimes, and property and person crimes. Skills, Knowledge and Abilities : Considerable knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment; Considerable knowledge of investigative practices and procedures; Considerable knowledge of proper methods of securing, handling, and preserving evidence; Working knowledge of security clearance access to law enforcement, court, State and Federal and other criminal history resources. Ability to analyze complex situations, problems and data, and use sound judgment in drawing conclusions and making decisions; Ability to comprehend and articulate complex facts and relationships in detail and to summarize and write clearly, concisely and legibly, and to testify in court in an objective, concise and professional manner; Ability to produce or obtain reports, graphs, charts, photographs of the evidence or exhibits; Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing; ability to maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, supervisors, and the public. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to meet the special requirements listed below. Skill in operation of listed tools and equipment. TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED Personal computer, digital camera, digital video recorders, police vehicle, police radio, semi-automatic rifle, handgun and other weapons as required, handcuffs, cellular phone, narcotics field test kit, first aid equipment. LICENSING AND CERTIFICATIONS Valid State issued Driver’s License CPR/First Aid certification Residency requirement: Reside within a fifty (50) mile planning radius of the City (unless approved by the Chief or designee). Take home vehicles will be provided for employees who permanently reside within Lea County, New Mexico. Employees residing outside of Lea County, New Mexico will not be provided a take a home vehicle and will be required to leave their assigned unit at the Hobbs Police Station. SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the general supervision of the Criminal Investigation Sergeant. SUPERVISION EXERCISED None PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. The majority of the time, heavy physical activity is not required. However, a Police Officer needs to be able to actively respond to any situation in which the public or an officer may be in danger. The ability to physically interact with another person, including restraint, arrest, rescue, an