Lateral Police Detective

City of Loveland•Loveland, CO

9h•Onsite

About The Position

The Loveland Police Department is seeking a Criminal Investigations Detective who brings sound judgment, professional demeanor, and a disciplined approach to investigative work. This assignment is responsible for managing criminal investigations from initial response through case disposition. Detectives are expected to conduct objective, thorough investigations; develop information through interviews and interrogations; and identify, collect, and preserve evidence in accordance with legal requirements and departmental standards. The work requires attention to detail, independent decision-making, and the ability to build cases that are clear, accurate, and defensible. Successful detectives in this role engage effectively with victims, witnesses, and suspects, maintaining professionalism and composure in a wide range of circumstances. This includes recognizing the needs of victims, communicating clearly, and approaching each case without bias or assumption. Detectives are expected to exercise discretion, remain steady under pressure, and apply consistent judgment across all aspects of their work. The position requires strong organizational skills and accountability. Detectives manage multiple active cases, maintain complete and accurate case files, and provide timely updates to supervisory staff. They work closely with patrol personnel, prosecutors, and other partners to ensure cases are thoroughly developed and prepared for prosecution, including testifying in court. This role also contributes to the broader function of the department. Detectives serve as a resource to others, assist with callouts, conduct surveillance, execute search and arrest warrants, and support training and knowledge-sharing within the organization. Candidates should be self-directed, dependable, and willing to both lead and learn within a team environment. This is an on-call assignment that requires flexibility, initiative, and a sustained commitment to professional standards.

Requirements

Written communication skills necessary for the accurate completion of required forms and reports.
Oral communication skills that allow for the successful gathering of information from suspects, and witnesses.
Demonstrated ability to effectively testify in court and legal proceedings.
Ability to identify, collect, process and preserve evidence using Department approved methods.
Must have knowledge in criminal law and rules of evidence sufficient to conduct investigations without the immediate presence of supervisor or assisting officer/detective.
Must be 21 years of age.
Minimum standards set forth by Colorado P.O.S.T.
Demonstrated mental capacity, emotional stability, and legal/procedural knowledge to analyze situations to make legally and ethically sound decisions.
Demonstrated effective verbal communications skills allowing communication with people who are emotional or distressed, under adverse conditions, and to groups of varying sizes.
Written communication skills to prepare accurate and concise records and reports of activities/investigations.
Personal computer and keyboard skills sufficient to conduct all required Department data searches and document production.
Pursuit driving, police baton, electronic control device, pepper spray, arrest control and radar certifications.
Firearms proficiency with both the strong and weak hand on all Department issued firearms. Must be able to load, unload, aim and fire handguns, rifles, and other agency firearms from a variety of body positions and under various conditions of stress that justify the use of deadly force, and at levels of proficiency prescribed in certification standards.
Must possess a valid Colorado driver's license.
Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language.
This position may require non-traditional work hours and will be subject to on-call status and overtime, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
Ability to sit in and/or drive a vehicle for extended periods of time.
Must meet physical ability test standards set forth in Department policies.
Withstand extreme weather conditions from sub-freezing to hot, humid temperatures.
Incumbent must be able to perform duties under a wide range of external conditions from sedentary office work to physically and emotionally demanding activity such as violent physical arrests.
Must be able to legally possess and carry a firearm.
Minimum of five years of law enforcement experience.
Candidates must have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform all duties of a police officer.

Nice To Haves

Basic Criminal Investigation, Major Crime Investigation School, and/or Interview and Interrogation School preferred.
Two years in an investigative/detective capacity preferred.
Preferred Colorado P.O.S.T. certified.

Responsibilities

When requested by officers or assigned by Criminal Investigations Division Sergeant or Lieutenant, respond to and assume command of the scene of criminal activity.
Perform investigative responsibilities and field supervision of crime scenes, in addition to performing investigative work and general administrative activities.
Conduct criminal investigations that require additional follow-up, case management, interview/interrogating witnesses and suspects, testifying in court, gathering evidence, and locating and apprehending suspects.
Conduct criminal and special investigations, including domestic violence, burglaries, thefts, robberies, assaults, sex offenses, homicides, and the enforcement of City, County, and State laws.
Receiving calls from and assisting other law enforcement agencies in emergencies or with requests for assistance with investigations, including Critical Incident Response Team (C.I.R.T.) investigations.
Conduct interviews/interrogations of suspects, witnesses, and others connected to criminal investigations.
Identify, preserve, and collect evidence in a timely manner, using Department approved methods.
In a timely manner, accurately complete forms and written reports associated with investigations.
Maintain an organized, accurate, and updated file on cases under investigation.
Locate and examine all possible sources of evidence and information regarding assigned cases.
Write and execute search and arrest warrants.
Arrest suspects of criminal activity upon establishment of probable cause.
File cases with the District Attorney’s office.
Testify in court regarding activities and findings in criminal investigations.
Provide routine case updates to the assigned Sergeant providing accurate status on investigations.
Perform surveillance on subjects who are involved in criminal investigations.
Function in the capacity of a uniformed Patrol Officer when deemed necessary.
Perform other related duties as required and assigned.