# Tasks & work activities — criminal investigator

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 33-3021.02 (Police Identification and Records Officers).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Maintain records of evidence and write and review reports.
- **[Core]** Submit evidence to supervisors, crime labs, or court officials for legal proceedings.
- **[Core]** Serve as technical advisor and coordinate with other law enforcement workers or legal personnel to exchange information on crime scene collection activities.
- **[Core]** Coordinate or conduct instructional classes or in-services, such as citizen police academy classes and crime scene training for other officers.
- **[Core]** Analyze and process evidence at crime scenes, during autopsies, or in the laboratory, wearing protective equipment and using powders and chemicals.
- **[Core]** Create sketches and diagrams, by hand or computer software, to depict crime scenes.
- **[Core]** Photograph crime or accident scenes for evidence records.
- **[Core]** Testify in court and present evidence.
- **[Core]** Dust selected areas of crime scene and lift latent fingerprints, adhering to proper preservation procedures.
- **[Core]** Look for trace evidence, such as fingerprints, hairs, fibers, or shoe impressions, using alternative light sources when necessary.
- **[Core]** Package, store and retrieve evidence.
- **[Core]** Perform emergency work during off-hours.
- **[Core]** Process film and prints from crime or accident scenes.
- **[Core]** Take fingerprints.
- **[Supplemental]** Identify, compare, classify, and file fingerprints, using systems such as Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) or the Henry Classification System.
- **[Supplemental]** Interview survivors, witnesses, suspects, and other law enforcement personnel.

## Detailed work activities

- Analyze crime scene evidence.
- Collaborate with law enforcement or security agencies to share information.
- Direct employee training programs.
- Document legal or regulatory information.
- Draw detailed or technical illustrations.
- Examine crime scenes to obtain evidence.
- Interview people to gather information about criminal activities.
- Process forensic or legal evidence in accordance with procedures.
- Record crime or accident scene evidence with video or still cameras.
- Record information about suspects or criminals.
- Respond to emergencies to provide assistance.
- Testify at legal or legislative proceedings.
- Use databases to locate investigation details or other information.
- Write operational reports.