Have you watched one too many episodes of Law & Order and are still confused about what police investigators actually do? Police investigators are similar to detectives in a lot of ways, but there are still some differences to note.
Whether you’re considering a career in law enforcement or criminology, knowing what a police investigator does is useful to better understanding our criminal justice system and how it functions today.
What Are Police Investigators?
A police investigator does a lot of detective work, the main difference is in the focus. Detectives tend to focus on very serious criminal cases and violent felonies, whereas a police investigator may work on a wider variety. They may look into civil cases, missing persons, and more.
There are also private investigators who work outside of an official police station and handle more personal issues. A police investigator is considered law enforcement and can handle arrests.
Responsibilities
An investigator is tasked with trying to prevent future crimes by investigating possible crimes that have already taken place and catching the perpetrators. They may work with a lot of people outside law enforcement to learn about crimes and what has happened. And when a criminal is caught they will work with prosecutors to get proper evidence and anything necessary for a court case to proceed.
Police investigators have complicated and busy jobs, and they’re one of many in the force. There are all kinds of jobs not even in law enforcement that still connect, like PIs and crime scene cleanup professionals. Investigators work with people in and out of law enforcement for their job.
Methods
There are a lot of crucial skills needed to make a good investigator. A lot of detective skills involve being patient and methodical, as well as being good with people. Investigators need to know how to speak with witnesses, including victims, and gather all the information they can about a crime. They also need to be able to talk with criminals and conduct interrogations.
An investigator likely worked their way up from a patrol officer and will be adept at surveillance. They will often need to review video footage and other records to collect evidence.
Focus
As mentioned above, a police investigator may have a wider focus on crimes than a detective. However, there is also overlap. An investigator may work in gang-related crimes, fraud, cybercrime, robbery, missing persons, and more.
There are many areas that investigative work is necessary in solving a case, and can make the difference between catching someone or not.
Protect and Serve
Police investigators are a part of law enforcement, and their main job at the end of the day is to protect and serve the community using the skills they have learned through the force. It can be a dangerous job but is incredibly important for the protection against future crimes.
Investigators don’t work alone, either. All of the informants, witnesses, and other officers work together to prevent crimes. If this helped you better understand what police investigators do, keep reading for more useful info.
