Investigator

The Office of Police Complaints (OPC) is an independent District of Columbia agency that receives, investigates, and resolves police misconduct complaints filed by the public against the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the D.C. Housing Authority Police Department (DCHAPD) officers.

This is a developmental level position, primarily responsible for case intake, but also performing the full range of investigative functions on assigned cases or portions of cases, routine in nature, from planning through fact-finding to reporting the results of her/his investigations. Assignments typically involve subjects on which information is readily available, cases that involve straightforward issues or persons that are not controversial, and routine exchanges of factual information with other agencies.

Duties and Responsibilities

Conducts initial case intake and manages a small caseload. Plans, organizes, and conducts investigations of police misconduct complaints filed by the public, including complaints alleging harassment, the use of unnecessary or excessive force, the use of language or conduct that is insulting, demeaning, or humiliating, discriminatory treatment, failure to identify, failure to intervene, and retaliation.

Plans investigations, determining the methods and procedures necessary to obtain essential information. Obtains necessary background information by reviewing all pertinent documents on file, including complaint forms, MPD records, medical records, photographs, and other materials. Documents all investigative steps and maintains detailed records regarding investigations.

Conducts complete and thorough interviews of complainants, witnesses, and officers to obtain factual statements and potential leads to other evidence. Makes incident site visits to locate and interview witnesses, examine the incident scene, take photographs, and/or prepare diagrams.

Prepares detailed written reports summarizing the results of the investigation and analyzing the allegations in a complaint based on the evidence gathered. Maintains complaint files and enters data and investigative materials into the agency's electronic complaint management system.

Works with investigative supervisors or team leaders to revise and finalize reports, which are used by the agency's Executive Director and Deputy Director, as well as members of the Police Complaints Board (PCB), which is OPC's governing body, and complaint examiners.

Qualifications and Education

This position requires one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. Specialized experience is defined as experience which is directly related to the position which has equipped the individual with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, criminology, law enforcement or other closely related field, plus two (2) years of work-related experience is preferred; or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training and experience is preferred.

Licensures, Certifications, and Other Requirements

Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Work Conditions/Environment

The incumbent will observe safety precautions and will always respect the rights of others while performing work in the office, field locations, and while traveling to and from investigation sites.

Other Significant Facts

District code prohibits hiring current or former MPD officers or civilian employees for this position.

Tour of Duty: Monday through Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm,

Duration of Appointment: Career Services-Regular Appointment

Promotion Potential: CS-11

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-1810-09

Collective Bargaining Unit (Non-Union): This position is not covered under a collective bargaining agreement.

Position Designation: This position has been designated as security sensitive therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability, and as such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing, as applicable.

Drug Free Workplace: The District of Columbia government maintains a drug free work environment policy. All District employees are subject to post-accident/incident and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing.

Residency Requirement Statement: Applicants claiming “Residency Preference” will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government does not discriminate or retaliate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity and expression, national origin, family responsibilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, homeless status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, participation in a legally protected activity, parental status, matriculation, personal appearance, credit information, status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, sexual offense, or stalking, military service, or other non-merit factor.