What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cold Case Investigator position at City of Annapolis (MD)?

The Annapolis Police Department (APD) is dedicated to preventing and reducing crime for the community it serves and preserving the quality of life in the city through fair and impartial law enforcement services. The men and women of the APD are highly qualified individuals whose core values are honor, respect, integrity, and service. The department strives to recruit, train, and equip an unrivaled and diverse workforce and works diligently to preserve and uphold democracy and the freedoms afforded to all by the Constitution through proactive problem solving and community policing.

The Cold Case Investigator is responsible for conducting in-depth investigations into previously unsolved violent crime cases. This role requires a highly skilled and analytical individual with a strong background in law enforcement and criminal investigations. The investigator will review case files, interview witnesses, analyze evidence, and pursue new leads using modern investigative tools and techniques.

(Note: The duties and responsibilities enumerated in this job description are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications and salary level for all positions in this class. They are not intended to include all the job duties of all positions in the job classification. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described.)

This position requires a combination of investigative skills, administrative attention to detail, and the ability to interact effectively with a variety of people. Individuals in this role will work under the supervision of the Commander of Investigations and may assist with other criminal and non-criminal investigations occasionally.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)

Case Review and Analysis:
- Thoroughly review all aspects of cold case files, including police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and judicial proceedings.
- Identify deficiencies, inconsistencies, or new investigative avenues within existing case materials.
- Create detailed timelines and summaries of case events.
Evidence Handling and Forensic Liaison:
- Identify and secure new or re-examine existing physical evidence for updated forensic analysis.
- Work closely with forensic scientists and laboratories to explore new technologies and testing methods.
- Maintain strict chain of custody for all evidence.
Interview and Interrogation:
- Conduct re-interviews of original witnesses and suspects, as well as identify and interview new witnesses.
- Document all interviews comprehensively.
Investigative Techniques:
- Utilize open-source intelligence (OSINT), social media analysis, and other digital investigative tools.
- Conduct surveillance and other field operations as necessary.
- Develop and execute comprehensive investigative plans for each assigned case.
Collaboration and Coordination:
- Liaise with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, the state’s attorney’s office, and other relevant organizations.
- Work collaboratively with a team of investigators, analysts, and forensic experts.
- Present findings and recommendations to supervisors and prosecuting attorneys.
- Identify concerned family members and maintain communication with them about case status.
Report Writing and Documentation:
- Prepare detailed, accurate, and concise investigative reports.
- Maintain meticulous records of all investigative activities, findings, and communications.
- Prepare cases for prosecution.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Proven ability to conduct complex criminal investigations;

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills;

Excellent written and verbal communication skills;

Proficiency in interviewing and interrogation techniques;

Familiarity with forensic science principles and applications;

Ability to work independently and as part of a team;

Proficiency in using investigative databases and software;

Ability to get along well with others; administrative aptitude;

Good judgment; tact and courtesy.

Minimum Qualifications:

Valid Driver’s License

Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.

Minimum of 5 years experience in law enforcement, with a significant portion in criminal investigations.

Special Qualifications:

This position is designated as Safety Sensitive due to the tasks or duties that the employer reasonably believes could affect the safety and health of the employee performing the task, other individuals, and/or may lead to damage to property. This position is subject to drug and alcohol testing to include pre-employment testing.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science or a related field.

Criminal investigations experience in homicide, sexual assault, or violent crimes.

Physical/Mental Demands:

The work is sedentary and generally the employee may be required to speak, walk, stand, bend, and/or carry light items to include paper, books or files.

Physical ability: to sit continuously at a computer terminal or receptionist station for extended periods; ability to operate standard office equipment including copier, computer, fax machine, mailing machine, etc.; ability to reach into file drawers in standard four drawer filing cabinets.

Visual ability: sufficient to effectively operate office equipment including copier, computer, etc.; to read and write reports, correspondence, instructions, etc.;

Hearing ability: sufficient to hold conversation with other individuals both in person and over a telephone; ability to hear recording on transcription device.

Speaking ability: sufficient to communicate effectively with other individuals in person and over a telephone.

Freedom from health disorders which would interfere with performance of duties as described.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description.

Work Environment:

The work environment entails minimal discomforts that may be associated with an office environment.

Salary : $65,000 - $85,000

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