CORRECTIONS INVESTIGATOR 72109

02/01/94 D

This is the first class in the Corrections Investigator series. Positions in this class exercise general police powers as authorized by the Code of Virginia to investigate criminal behavior affecting the Department of Corrections on a statewide basis. Positions plan and conduct criminal and administrative investigations of allegations of criminal conduct of persons in the custody of the Department, its agents or employees, or of violations of policies or other administrative guidelines. This class is distinguished from the Corrections Investigator Assistant Supervisor by the latter's supervisory and administrative responsibility for the conduct of criminal and other investigations.

Complexity of Work: Positions in this class perform work of moderate difficulty in the planning and conduct of criminal investigations of major crimes and serious misdemeanors by collecting, verifying, and evaluating evidence; coordinating investigations with external law enforcement agencies, attorneys, the Attorney General's Office, and others; preparing cases for court presentations and testifying as required; apprehending violators and participating in searches for escapees; evaluating departmental security practices that contribute to the opportunity to commit serious crimes; investigating the more serious violations of various departmental policies and procedures or administrative guidelines; and attending required certification and related training programs.

Supervision Given: Supervision typically is not a factor; however, positions may occasionally lead other investigators assigned to assist in an investigation.

Supervision Received: General supervision is received from a Corrections Investigator Assistant Supervisor. Duties and responsibilities are performed independently.

Scope: Criminal investigative activities affect the safety and general welfare of inmates, employees, and the public, as well as the detection of criminal acts and compliance with laws, rules, and regulations governing the Department.

Impact of Actions: Actions affect compliance with criminal laws and the protection of inmates, staff, and the public, as well as safety, and can affect the agency in terms of time, money, and service, as well as in public acceptance of the Department's mission.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contact with staff, inmates, Commonwealth's Attorneys; local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies; and district and circuit court officials concerning investigations and security requirements of the Department.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of criminal law of the Commonwealth of Virginia and investigative and law enforcement techniques. Some knowledge of security practices and procedures, as well as administrative, court, and legal procedures.

Skills: Working skill in the use of investigative and police equipment relative to the job.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; evaluate data as evidence; interpret and apply various criminal laws or regulations; conduct interviews and investigations; and meet training/certification requirements of the job.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

License or Certification: Certification by the Department of Criminal Justice Services. Possession of a Virginia driver's license. Must pass an extensive background investigation.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent and law enforcement training.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience in the areas of criminal, administrative, or other related investigative fields which includes general law enforcement, investigations, or security.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in February, 1994, as a result of a classification study. This class replaces Corrections Lead Investigator.