Investigation Support Officer

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

• 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.

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.

• 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.

Not applicable.

• 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