Criminal Investigator - Lateral

Purpose

The Criminal Investigator serves as a cornerstone of the Savannah Police Department's mission to uphold public safety by conducting thorough professional investigations into felony and misdemeanor offenses within the jurisdiction. This role demands advanced investigative skills and the ability to analyze complex criminal cases while collaborating closely with patrol officers, specialized units, prosecutors, and external law enforcement agencies. Investigators are tasked with identifying suspects, gathering and preserving evidence, and preparing robust cases for prosecution, ensuring all actions adhere to department policies, state law, and constitutional standards.

About the Role

As a Criminal Investigator, you will lead independent and collaborative inquiries into major offenses, including robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, homicide, narcotics violations, and financial crimes. Your day-to-day involves responding to crime scenes to coordinate investigative activities, collecting and documenting physical and digital evidence while maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures, and conducting detailed interviews and interrogations of victims, witnesses, and suspects.

You will play a critical role in the judicial process by preparing comprehensive investigative reports, affidavits, and case files for the Chatham County District Attorney's Office. This position requires frequent interaction with the court system, including testifying in state and federal proceedings. Additionally, you will assist patrol officers with investigative follow-up, provide guidance on evidence collection, and participate in rollcall training to share expertise with the broader department.

The role operates in a dynamic environment where work hours vary to meet investigative needs. You may be required to respond to crime scenes, emergency incidents, and callouts outside of normal working hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. During emergencies or disasters affecting the City of Savannah, you may be called upon to report as part of a disaster operations team. The position involves exposure to stressful situations and potentially hazardous environments, requiring the physical ability to perform sworn law enforcement duties, including operating emergency vehicles and navigating active crime scenes.

Hiring Process

The application and selection process is rigorous and designed to ensure the highest standards of integrity and capability. Candidates must successfully complete the following steps:

1. Physical Agility Test (PAT): A timed course measuring 870 feet, consisting of nine interspersed tasks essential to law enforcement training, including running, climbing, and navigating obstacles. Penalties are assessed for specific infractions such as knocked-down hurdles or foot faults.
2. Fingerprinting: Submission of fingerprints for background checks.
3. Orientation: Initial departmental orientation.
4. Oral Board Interview: A formal interview panel assessment.
5. Polygraph Examination: A lie detector test to verify the accuracy of application information.
6. Extensive Background Investigation: A comprehensive review of personal, professional, and financial history.
7. Interview with the Police Chief or Designee: A final executive interview.
8. Medical Examination: A post-offer/pre-employment medical screen.
9. Psychological Evaluation: Assessment of mental fitness for the role.
10. POST Verification: Verification of the Equivalent of Training (EOT) for Georgia POST certification if applicable.

Prior to employment, candidates must also pass a supervised drug screen and verification of education, certifications, and licenses.

Equal Opportunity

The Savannah Police Department is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We strive to build a workforce that reflects the community we serve.