Investigator

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

The work at this grade level involves performing the full range of investigative assignments of substantial difficulty in resolving conflicts in facts or evidence. The incumbent is responsible for cases ranging from routine to complex in nature. The nature of assignments requires considerable skill in establishing the interrelationship of facts or evidence.

MAJOR DUTIES
Conducts initial case intake. 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, retaliation, and failure to intervene, and failure to provide or display identification. The incumbent is expected to plan and conduct investigations using ingenuity, independence, and the ability to adapt the investigative plan to meet unanticipated developments.

Obtains necessary background information by reviewing all pertinent documents in file, including complaint form, MPD records, medical records, photographs, video evidence, and other materials. Conducts complete and thorough interviews of complainants, witnesses, and officers to obtain factual statements and leads to other evidence. Makes incident site visits to locate and interview witnesses, examine the incident scene, take photographs, prepare diagrams, or gather other evidence.

Plans investigation, determining the methods and procedures necessary to obtain essential information. Investigations vary based on the allegations, and investigative plans are regularly updated as the investigation progresses. Gathers documents, records, or other evidence necessary for a complete and thorough investigation.

Prepares detailed written reports summarizing the results of the investigation, and analyzing the allegations in a complaint based on the evidence gathered. Documents all investigative steps and keeps detailed records regarding the investigation. Maintains complaint files and enters data and investigative materials in the agency's complaint management system.

Works with investigative supervisors 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.

Participates in meetings with officials of the Metropolitan Police Department, the PCB, and other agencies, groups, or stakeholders, furnishing necessary information to all parties concerned.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Factor 1 – Knowledge Required By The Position
Thorough knowledge of the laws, rules and regulations of the Office of Police Complaints.

Thorough knowledge of investigative and research principles, techniques, methods and procedures. Ability to conduct investigations, and apply the relevant bodies of law, regulations, or orders to the facts of the case being investigated.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing to report facts accurately in a concise, logical and objective manner. Ability to write clear, concise, well-organized, and thorough investigative reports.

Skills in conducting interviews and recognizing, exploring, and exploiting leads. Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks associated with the different investigative matters.

Ability to use personal computers, including, but not limited, to Microsoft Word and Microsoft Outlook.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle, and must possess a valid driver's license.

FACTOR 2 – SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
Works under the general supervision of the supervisor, who is available for advice, guidance and consultation on policy issues, and on complex or controversial cases. Incumbent plans work independently, working out arrangements, and expecting to execute work activities and assignment with minimal or no supervision. Performance is reviewed periodically to assess progress and determine the need for additional guidance; to examine the accuracy and adequacy of work; and to determine compliance with established laws, regulations, rules, and policies.

FACTOR 3 – GUIDELINES
Guidelines include D.C. Official Code

• 5-1101 through 5-1115, D.C. Municipal Regulations, Title 6A,
• 2100 through 2199, OPC policies and procedures, and all laws and regulations governing MPD, and all MPD orders, policies, procedures, and training. Incumbent uses initiative and resourcefulness in deviating from traditional methods, and uses judgement in interpreting the intent of the guidelines.

FACTOR 4 – COMPLEXITY
The work involves investigative assignments involving multiple allegations, requiring skill in establishing the interrelationships of facts and evidence. The range of activities requires many different and unrelated processes and methods. Investigative tasks include reviewing video evidence, interviewing witnesses, obtaining statements, gathering documentary, physical, and other evidence, analyzing facts and applying the relevant bodies of law, regulations, and orders as well as writing reports based on the results of the investigation. The incumbent must have the resourcefulness and initiative to continue to develop information on such issues through further fact-finding until there is enough evidence to support a legal or administrative decision within the criteria established by applicable laws, rules or regulations.

FACTOR 5 – SCOPE AND EFFECT
Conducts investigations of police misconduct complaints. The investigation is the first step toward resolving allegations of police misconduct in a fair and effective manner so that officers are held accountable for their interactions with citizens. The ultimate goal of the OPC process is to promote greater understanding between the public and MPD.

FACTOR 6 – PERSONAL CONTACTS
Contacts are with OPC employees and contractors, sworn and unsworn MPD employees, other District and federal agencies employees, individuals employed by the private sector, and members of the general public.

FACTOR 7 – PUPROSE OF CONTACT
Contacts are made for the purpose of conducting interviews; gathering documents and evidence; and conducting other investigative steps. Contacts also include responding to inquiries about OPC and specific investigations, and conducting community outreach and protest monitoring events.

FACTOR 8 – PHYSICAL DEMANDS
No unusual physical dexterity is required. The ability to operate a motor vehicle is required.

FACTOR 9– WORK ENVIRONMENT
The incumbent will observe safety precautions and will respect the rights of others at all times while performing work in the office, field locations, and while traveling to and from investigation sites.

Other Significant Facts
Experience and Education
Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, political science or other related field. Three (3) or more years of work related experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training and experience.

FLSA:
Non-Exempt

Standards:
US OPM Standard: Job Family Position Classification Standard for Administrative Work in the Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and compliance Group, 1800, Issued March 2009, Revised 2011

Recertification Date
Job Code: 551297
Smart Code: IN0112