Investigation Support Officer

Job Family Investigation
Job Sub Family Investigation
Code INV-INV-SD-Investigation Support Officer v1.0

Role Purpose

This profile has recently been updated to include the CVF 2024 and core skills, and the new version can be found on College Learn by entering the Profile title in the search function. Please note this profile is out of date and is in the process of being reviewed.

The Investigation Support Officer provides support to investigating officers by undertaking administrative and evidence gathering functions that relate to criminal investigations and judicial processes.

Key Accountabilities

  • To actively support the investigation team by undertaking a wide range of evidence gathering activities as directed by the SIO/OIC in accordance with legislation, regulations, processes and procedures.
  • To assist investigating officers by carrying out non-contentious, for example, ‘losers/property loss’ statements or continuity witness statements.
  • Provide administrative support to investigating officers by maintaining records and systems, and submitting documents, files and forms.
  • Liaise with other police forces and external agencies and partners in order gather evidence and to support investigative objectives.
  • Maintain the continuity of evidence and exhibits, where appropriate ensuring correct handling and storage, in order to adhere to relevant procedures and policies.
  • When required, provide an evidential statement and/or attend Court to give evidence in relation to evidential matters.

Behaviours

All roles are expected to know, understand and act within the ethics and values of the Police Service.

The Competency and Values Framework (CVF) has six competencies that are clustered into three groups. Under each competency are three levels that show what behaviours will look like in practice.

It is suggested that this role should be operating or working towards the following levels of the CVF:

Resolute, compassionate and committed

Inclusive, enabling and visionary leadership

Intelligent, creative and informed policing

Education, Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Prior education and experience:

  •  Completed or working toward Introduction to Investigation Development Programme
  • Knowledge of relevant legislation, policy and guidelines
  • Experience of complex information gathering
  • Understanding of the criminal justice system
  • Working knowledge of the Disclosure principles (Criminal Procedures Investigations Act 1996)

 

  • Skills:
  • Good communication skills with the ability to listen to others.
  • Able to use IT packages, systems and/or databases relevant to the role.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team to achieve shared objectives, demonstrating awareness of individual differences and providing support and advice as required.
  • Able to review own performance objectively and to develop and follow an appropriate development plan.
  • Able to appropriately prioritise and plan own work.
  • Able to proactively develop effective working relationships with colleagues, partners and other stakeholders.
  • Able to produce clear and concise reports and other documents within best practice documents.
  • Effective interview skills for interviewing victims and witnesses.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

  • Keep up-to-date with new approaches to evidence-based policing and apply these to working practices.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of how other government agencies, such as the National Crime Agency (NCA) and Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HMRC), can assist in the investigation of cases.
  • Maintain knowledge of the local and national guidance around the seizure, recording, processing, handling, and use of property seized as part of an investigation.
  • Maintain knowledge of the investigative process and any changes to local and national guidance and legislation relating to investigation.
  • Ensure that case file management follows current best practice.
  • Regularly share best practice for investigations with colleagues e.g. contribute to relevant Knowledge Hub communities or deliver informal briefings.
  • Attend and participate in both formal and informal learning and development events e.g. peer teaching opportunities, force-led training.

Professional Registration/Licenses

Not applicable.

Links to other Profiles

  • nvestigator PIP1
  • Investigator PIP2
  • Investigative Manager PIP2
  • Senior Investigator PIP3
  • Specialist interviewer: Victims and witnesses
  • Specialist interviewer: Suspects
  • Interview Advisor
  • Strategic Investigator PIP4
  • Head of Crime
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