Investigator

The Office of Police Complaints (OPC) is an independent District of Columbia agency that receives, investigates, and resolves police misconduct complaints filed by the public against the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the D.C. Housing Authority Police Department (DCHAPD) officers.

This is a developmental level position, responsible for performing the full range of investigative functions on assigned cases or portions of cases, routine in nature, from planning through fact finding to reporting the results of her/his investigations. Assignments typically involve subjects on which information is readily available, cases that involve straightforward issues or persons that are not controversial, and routine exchanges of factual information with other agencies.

Duties and Responsibilities

Plans, organizes, and conducts investigations of police misconduct complaints filed by the public, including complaints alleging harassment, the use of unnecessary or excessive force, the use of language or conduct that is insulting, demeaning, or humiliating, discriminatory treatment, failure to identify, failure to intervene, and retaliation.

Plans investigations, determining the methods and procedures necessary to obtain essential information. Obtains necessary background information by reviewing all pertinent documents on file, including complaint forms, MPD records, medical records, photographs, and other materials. Documents all investigative steps and maintains detailed records regarding investigations.

Conducts complete and thorough interviews of complainants, witnesses, and officers to obtain factual statements and potential leads to other evidence. Makes incident site visits to locate and interview witnesses, examine the incident scene, take photographs, and/or prepare diagrams.

Prepares detailed written reports summarizing the results of the investigation and analyzing the allegations in a complaint based on the evidence gathered. Maintains complaint files and enters data and investigative materials into the agency's electronic complaint management system.

Works with investigative supervisors or team leaders to revise and finalize reports, which are used by the agency's Executive Director and Deputy Director, as well as members of the Police Complaints Board (PCB), which is OPC's governing body, and complaint examiners.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Education

This position requires one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. Specialized experience is defined as experience which is directly related to the position which has equipped the individual with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, criminology, law enforcement or other closely related field, plus two (2) years of work-related experience is preferred; or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training and experience is preferred.

Licensures, Certifications, and Other Requirements

Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Work Conditions/Environment

The incumbent will observe safety precautions and will always respect the rights of others while performing work in the office, field locations, and while traveling to and from investigation sites.

Other Significant Facts

District code prohibits hiring current or former MPD officers or civilian employees for this position.

If you are applying for this position, your application may be considered for future CS-09 Investigator positions that may become available at this agency.

Tour of Duty: 8:30am - 5:00pm

Duration of Appointment: Career Services-Regular Appointment

Promotion Potential: CS-11

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-1810-09

Salary Range: $54,183 To $66,770

Collective Bargaining Unit (Non-Union): This position is not covered under a collective bargaining agreement.

Position Designation: This position is designated as Security Sensitive and therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.