Investigator
special assignment summary
Conducts investigations by following up on initial reports from Police Officers or the public, developing leads, identifying suspects, witnesses, and evidence. Develops and initiates cases and prepares cases for prosecution. Gathers, reviews, and distributes crime data and intelligence regarding crime trends and patterns, and provides information internally to alert the department. Investigators assist in different areas of investigation such as narcotics, property crimes, personal crimes, crimes against children and street crimes. Investigators may also gain experience in crime scene processing and evidence collection, digital media collection and analysis, forensic interviewing of children and other investigative skills.
DISCLAIMER: Must be a member of the Fargo PD for 2-3 years before special assignment
becoming an Investigator
- Works independently with minimal supervision or direction. Most cases are not reviewed before being sent to Prosecuting Attorney. Works as a team member on more complex cases such as homicides, robberies and sexual assaults. May substitute for other Officers as needed.
- Conducts investigations on criminal cases.
- Cooperates with other law enforcement agencies in investigations.
- Analyzes cases and works with other agencies to make connections to other cases, including inactive cases, and resolve open cases.
- Prepares cases for prosecution and submits to City of State Attorney as appropriate.
- Collates case information, writes case narrative, and works with prosecutors on putting cases forward.
- Works to develop confidential informants.
- Coordinates and cooperates with federal agencies on larger, more complex cases.
- Conducts or assists with presentations on crime prevention for the public, various groups, and the Citizens’ Academy.
Requirements:
- Two years of experience as a Fargo Police Officer
- Proven skill in conducting thorough investigations and obtaining information
- Good writing skills to convey cases including content, structure, narrative, and grammar
- Knowledge of statutes, ordinances, and criminal code
Physical Conditions:
- Physical demands and working conditions are the same as for Patrol Officers, but there is less frequent exposures to hazards, unpleasant working conditions, and physical demands; time is generally split evenly between work in the office and in the field depending on the specific assignment. Investigators may spend more time working independently and less time driving (approximately one hour per day driving) but there are some longer trips. Requirements for timeliness and large case load require high attention to detail and working under tight deadlines. Investigators may be required to assist on major cases after regularly scheduled hours. Often requires flexibility with work hours to complete casework. All the physical demands and working conditions of a patrol officer apply within this assignment.
WE'RE HIRING!
Be a part of something greater, join the Fargo Police family
Join a strong team of talented professionals dedicated to building a safe and unified community founded on trust, accountability, and inclusion.
