skillfactor-pipeline/skills/police-detective/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — police detective

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 33-3021.02 (Police Identification and Records Officers).

Task statements

• [Core] Maintain records of evidence and write and review reports.
• [Core] Submit evidence to supervisors, crime labs, or court officials for legal proceedings.
• [Core] Serve as technical advisor and coordinate with other law enforcement workers or legal personnel to exchange information on crime scene collection activities.
• [Core] Coordinate or conduct instructional classes or in-services, such as citizen police academy classes and crime scene training for other officers.
• [Core] Analyze and process evidence at crime scenes, during autopsies, or in the laboratory, wearing protective equipment and using powders and chemicals.
• [Core] Create sketches and diagrams, by hand or computer software, to depict crime scenes.
• [Core] Photograph crime or accident scenes for evidence records.
• [Core] Testify in court and present evidence.
• [Core] Dust selected areas of crime scene and lift latent fingerprints, adhering to proper preservation procedures.
• [Core] Look for trace evidence, such as fingerprints, hairs, fibers, or shoe impressions, using alternative light sources when necessary.
• [Core] Package, store and retrieve evidence.
• [Core] Perform emergency work during off-hours.
• [Core] Process film and prints from crime or accident scenes.
• [Core] Take fingerprints.
• [Supplemental] Identify, compare, classify, and file fingerprints, using systems such as Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) or the Henry Classification System.
• [Supplemental] Interview survivors, witnesses, suspects, and other law enforcement personnel.

Detailed work activities

• Analyze crime scene evidence.
• Collaborate with law enforcement or security agencies to share information.
• Direct employee training programs.
• Document legal or regulatory information.
• Draw detailed or technical illustrations.
• Examine crime scenes to obtain evidence.
• Interview people to gather information about criminal activities.
• Process forensic or legal evidence in accordance with procedures.
• Record crime or accident scene evidence with video or still cameras.
• Record information about suspects or criminals.
• Respond to emergencies to provide assistance.
• Testify at legal or legislative proceedings.
• Use databases to locate investigation details or other information.
• Write operational reports.