STATE POLICE SPECIAL AGENT 71131

5/1/91 D

This is the first and journey level class in the State Police Special Agent series. Positions in this class perform complex law enforcement, criminal investigative, and related administrative duties to solve criminal cases, make arrests, and to protect citizens and private and public sector organizations. Positions in this class exercise full police powers in all jurisdictions as authorized by the Code of Virginia, and carry weapons. This class is distinguished from the State Police Senior Special Agent by the latter's occasional responsibility to direct more sensitive investigations requiring a higher level of technical expertise.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty in conducting criminal investigations individually or in cooperation with other agencies by collecting and verifying evidence in accordance with currently accepted investigative techniques, procedures, and agency policies and regulations. Apprehends violators of the more serious criminal offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, extortion, kidnapping, drug smuggling and distribution, fraud, and embezzlement; and fraud within government operations, such as bid rigging, bribery, and other criminal acts by governmental officials. Participates in task forces with federal and local authorities; coordinates investigations for and works with multi-jurisdiction grand juries. Participates in drug eradication and diversion programs and conducts drug awareness programs. Positions in this class may be required to attend specialized training courses on polygraph examination, Identi-kit, handwriting analysis, forensic science, and electronic surveillance, and to participate in activities involving these activities.

Supervision Given: Supervision is not a factor; however, positions may provide guidance to local law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations.

Supervision Received: General supervision is received from an Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Agent in Charge, or other higher level authority.

Scope: Criminal investigative activities may have local, statewide, nationwide, and/or international applications.

Impact of Actions: Actions affect compliance with criminal laws and protection of the public and property. Improper decisions and actions and failure to enforce the laws of the Commonwealth could adversely affect the agency in terms of time, money, services, and public/employee goodwill, and could negatively affect the welfare of the Commonwealth and its citizens.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contacts with the Office of the Attorney General, Commonwealth's Attorneys, law enforcement agencies, other state agencies, government officials, and the general public in order to apprehend criminals and enforce the law.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of all criminal laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia; of investigative techniques and information-gathering methods; and of departmental policies, rules, and regulations. Working knowledge of the judicial system.

Skills: Considerable skill in the use of firearms and other carried weapons, and in the operation of motor vehicles.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; to understand and apply verbal and written orders and directives; to apply and interpret laws; to appraise information as evidence; to conduct investigations and prepare comprehensive written investigative reports; to perform various technical functions such as polygraph, Identi-kit, electronic surveillance, crime scene investigation, and hostage negotiation; to maintain harmonious working relationships with co-workers and the public; to deal with persons in emotionally-charged situations; and to meet the physical demands of the job responsibilities, including the ability to chase down (on foot), restrain, and apprehend suspects.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Certification by the Department of Criminal Justice Services and a Virginia driver's license.

Other Requirements: Must be a United States citizen, meet the requirements of a background investigation, and successfully complete a physical examination conducted under the supervision of a licensed physician.

Education and Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent and successful completion of the Basic Training School at the State Police Academy. Specialized training in criminal investigation and other specialties when required by the position.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience in one or more of the State Police Trooper classes or other law enforcement of equal level.

The qualifications for this class were determined by the Department of State Police and the Department of Personnel and Training, and approved by the Secretary of Public Safety, pursuant to the provisions of the 1987 Appropriations Act.

This class was established in accordance with legislation enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia through the 1987 Appropriations Act and was redefined in May, 1991.