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Public Service Criminal Investigator
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What Does a Criminal Investigator Do?

Criminal investigators, also called CIs, play an integral role in the justice system. They gather facts and collect evidence to help solve crimes.

Their skills make them well-suited for a wide variety of jobs. They may work for a city or county police department, the state, the FBI or another federal law enforcement agency in the United States. Their roles vary depending on federal, state or local laws.

A crime investigator may also be a specialist, focusing on forensic science or a specific type of crime. Closely related job titles include crime scene investigators (CSIs) and forensic science technicians.

Some investigators track down information on computers, while others spend more time in the field. Criminal investigators use the information they gain through their daily work to prepare criminal complaints and testify in court.

Criminal investigative work often involves nights and weekends. This career is rewarding and satisfying, but it can also be stressful because of the situations investigators encounter at crime scenes.

Interested in how to become a crime scene investigator or criminal investigator? Read on to learn more about what it will take to get there.

A criminal investigator takes photos at a crime scene
To a criminal investigator, even the smallest piece of evidence matters. (Credit: Hajrudin Hodzic/Shutterstock)

Responsibilities

The criminal investigator or crime scene investigator job description can include a wide range of responsibilities:

  • Collect forensic evidence at crime scenes
  • Interview witnesses
  • Analyze evidence and do further research
  • Observe suspects
  • Write detailed case reports, and file and maintain records
  • Obtain warrants and participate in the arrest of suspects
  • Testify in court

How To Become a Criminal Investigator: FAQs

The bottom line:

For many people working in the profession, a career as a criminal investigator satisfies a sense of adventure plus a desire to help others in the community. Many different agencies need crime-solving skills, so there’s no shortage of possibilities.

But getting to those jobs will require hard work and time to gain experience as a police officer, in many cases.. If you’re up for the task, read more below about training opportunities.

Donald Martin, criminal investigator ambassador, with former student Santiago

Why becoming a criminal investigator is worthwhile

Donald Martin got into police work because an officer intervened in his life when he was a teen and challenged him to do better. 

He recognizes what a difference that intervention made, so now he gives back in a different way — by teaching criminal investigators and police officers. 

He says the job isn't much like what you see on TV — "kicking in doors, search warrants, high-speed chases." It's more about getting the details right.

Find out what else he has to say about becoming a criminal investigator.

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