Detective/Investigator

The Detective assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division is responsible for investigating criminal offenses occurring within Torrance County, developing cases for prosecution, identifying and apprehending offenders, and providing comprehensive investigative support to patrol and specialized units. Detectives conduct detailed investigations involving crimes against persons, property crimes, narcotics offenses, financial crimes, child abuse, domestic violence, and other major criminal cases. The Detective works closely with prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, and community partners to ensure thorough and professional investigations.

This position requires a high degree of integrity, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex criminal investigations independently.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Criminal Investigations

• Conduct thorough investigations of felony and misdemeanor criminal offenses.

• Receive, review, and follow up on cases referred from patrol deputies and other agencies.

• Interview victims, witnesses, suspects, and informants.

• Obtain written and recorded statements.

• Prepare search warrants, arrest warrants, subpoenas, and supporting affidavits.

• Execute search warrants and assist with tactical operations as required.

• Collect, document, preserve, and submit evidence in accordance with established procedures.

• Process and analyze crime scenes when required.

• Develop investigative leads through surveillance, intelligence gathering, and forensic evidence.

• Coordinate with specialized task forces and regional investigative units.

Case Management

• Maintain detailed investigative reports and case files.

• Utilize records management systems and criminal databases.

• Track evidence and investigative actions to ensure case integrity.

• Prepare cases for prosecution and present case findings to prosecutors.

• Testify in court proceedings, grand jury hearings, and administrative hearings.

Interagency Coordination

• Work cooperatively with local, state, tribal, and federal agencies.

• Coordinate investigations with the District Attorney's Office and United States Attorney's Office when appropriate.

• Participate in multi-agency investigations and task force operations.

• Exchange intelligence information to support public safety initiatives.

Community and Victim Services

• Maintain professional contact with crime victims and provide investigative updates.

• Coordinate resources and referrals for victims when appropriate.

• Assist with community education and crime prevention initiatives.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit timely reports, warrants, and investigative documentation.

• Maintain confidential information and evidence.

• Attend mandatory training and continuing education programs.

• Participate in departmental meetings and briefings.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Ability To:

• Conduct complex criminal investigations independently.

• Analyze evidence and establish investigative strategies.

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

• Prepare accurate, detailed reports and affidavits.

• Present testimony clearly and professionally in court.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.

• Exercise sound judgment under stressful and rapidly changing conditions.

• Operate law enforcement equipment, vehicles, and computers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting felony investigations.

• Specialized investigative training.

• Experience with digital evidence and electronic investigations.

• Narcotics, crimes against persons, financial crimes, or child crimes investigative experience.

• Advanced interview and interrogation training.

• Basic Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) certification.

• Experience preparing and executing search warrants.

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Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to operate a motor vehicle for extended periods.

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Ability to respond to crime scenes and emergency incidents at any hour.

• Ability to safely handle and operate firearms and law enforcement equipment.

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Working Conditions

• Work is performed in office, field, and crime scene environments.

• Subject to irregular work hours, on-call assignments, nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Exposure to hazardous situations, violent offenders, biohazards, and traumatic incidents.

• Frequent interaction with victims, suspects, witnesses, and members of the public.

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Special Requirements

• Must maintain confidentiality of sensitive criminal investigations.

• Must maintain eligibility to carry a firearm under federal and state law.

• Must comply with all Torrance County and Torrance County Sheriff's Office policies and procedures.

• Must be available for call-out assignments and emergency response situations.

• Must maintain a professional appearance and conduct consistent with Sheriff's Office standards.