Criminal Investigator - Lateral - Savannah Police Department

The Criminal Investigator is responsible for conducting thorough professional investigations into felony and misdemeanor offenses occurring within the Savannah Police Department's jurisdiction. This position requires advanced investigative skills, the ability to analyze complex criminal cases, and the capacity to work collaboratively with patrol officers, specialized units, prosecutors, and external law enforcement agencies. Investigators are expected to identify suspects, gather and preserve evidence, prepare cases for prosecution, and ensure that investigations are conducted in accordance with department policies, state law, and constitutional standards.

Lateral Officer $61,989 to $66,755

* Based on years of experience

Lateral Entry Bonus Schedule

$1,500 @ time of hire

$1,500 @ after Patrol Officer Training phase (time based on prior experience)

$2,500 @ 1st year anniversary

$4,500 @ 2nd year anniversary

Retention Bonus

For Police Officers Reaching Their 3rd Year Anniversary Date on or after January 1, 2023: Qualified Officers must:

• have three (3) or more consecutive years of service from their most recent hire date

• be at the Rank of Police Officer

• sign and submit a Two-Year Commitment Agreement

1. Police Officer signs 2-year commitment agreement, then receives

a. $4000 (gross) at 3rd year anniversary date – 1st incentive payment

b. $2500 (gross) at 4th year anniversary date – 2nd incentive payment

2. Police Officer signs 2-year commitment agreement, then receives

c. $2500 (gross) at 5th year anniversary date – 3rd incentive payment

d. $2500 (gross) at 6th year anniversary date – 4th incentive payment

• Conduct independent and collaborative investigations into crimes such as robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, homicide, narcotics violations, financial crimes, and other major offenses.
• Respond to crime scenes and coordinate investigative activities, including evidence collection, witness identification, and suspect interviews.
• Conduct detailed interviews and interrogations of victims, witnesses, and suspects.
• Prepare and execute search warrants and arrest warrants in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
• Collect, document, and preserve physical and digital evidence while maintaining proper chain-of-custody procedures.
• Utilize investigative databases, intelligence systems, and analytical tools to identify suspects and develop leads.
• Prepare comprehensive investigative reports, affidavits, and case files for prosecution.
• Work closely with the Chatham County District Attorney's Office to ensure cases are properly prepared for court proceedings.
• Respond to crime scenes and callouts
• Testify in state and federal court as required.
• Coordinate with other law enforcement agencies, including state and federal partners, when investigations cross jurisdictions.
• Participate in task forces or specialized investigative initiatives when assigned.
• Maintain regular communication with supervisors regarding case status and investigative progress.
• Assist patrol officers with investigative follow-up and provide guidance on evidence collection and case development.
• Conduct roll call training with Patrol.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Minimum three (3) years of sworn law enforcement experience as a Criminal Investigator
• Three (3) years experience or comparable experience or training.
• Current Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification or the ability to obtain Georgia POST certification within the required timeframe. Out-of-State Certified Officers may complete Equivalency of Training (EOT) via Georgia P.O.S.T. More information is available on the P.O.S.T. website
• Demonstrated experience in criminal investigations, case management, or detective functions.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a detective or investigative assignment.
• Specialized investigative training in areas such as homicide investigations, Violent Crimes, Property Crimes, financial crimes, interview and interrogation, search warrants and affidavits, and digital forensics.

Working Conditions

• Work may involve irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on investigative needs.
• Investigators may be required to respond to crime scenes, emergency incidents, and callouts outside of normal working hours.
• Work involves exposure to stressful situations, crime scenes, and potentially hazardous environments.
• During emergencies and disasters affecting the City of Savannah, you may be required to report to work as part of a disaster operations team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform the physical functions of a sworn law enforcement officer, including standing, walking, lifting evidence, and responding to active crime scenes.
• Ability to operate departmental vehicles and investigative equipment

• Strong knowledge of criminal law, investigative techniques, and constitutional law.
• Ability to analyze complex information and develop investigative strategies.
• Skill in interviewing witnesses and conducting interrogations.
• Ability to prepare detailed written reports and legal documentation.
• Proficiency in using investigative technology, records management systems, and criminal intelligence databases.
• Strong organizational and case management skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with a team.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.