3 answers
Devon
Student
Kerhonkson, New York
2
Questions
Asked
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How long does it take to become a homicide detective?
How long does it take to become a homicide detective?
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3 answers
Gloria Abok
Career Counselor Volunteer
5
Answers
Modesto, California
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Overall, it can take anywhere from 6 to 11 years to become a homicide detective. You can cut down the time it takes by getting your college degree while working as a police officer if it’s required. If you’re right out of high school, you can work on your degree while you wait to be old enough to apply to become a police officer.
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Devon
Shaun Kelly
Patrolman
4
Answers
Seekonk, Massachusetts
Updated
Shaun’s Answer
It depends on what department you join. Depends on the department size and need for detectives. Everyone starts out in patrol and works their way up. My best advice would be to go to college and get your degree. After college if you decide to go into law enforcement get as much training as you can early in your career to gear you towards being a homicide detective.
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Devon
Michael Branham
Retired 40 plus years Officer to Chief (Director/Constable, as well).
31
Answers
Peoria, Arizona
Updated
Michael’s Answer
The time required for highly technical positions such as homicide detective depend upon a number of factors including the size of the agency and whether or not career paths exist for such roles, as well as the tenure of those already in those slots or preparing to go into "Person's Crimes/Homicide".
Most often an officer will first learn the craft as a patrol officer where your field decision making as well as report writing and scene investigative skills are developed and demonstrated for command level officers and prosecutors to see.
Next, based upon your demonstrated skill levels you may be chosen or test for other detective/investigator positions such as Property Crimes (Burglary, Theft & Auto Theft), Detective, Street Crimes Detective as well as Narcotics and Intelligence Detective, again where you get an opportunity to learn about advanced scene and case preparation, court case development & advanced interviewing techniques and again hone your skills.
More TV & Movie roles exist for Homicide Positions because of the nature of the crime. In reality, many officers find they actually love many of the other positions I just listed as much if not more than working death related cases. Law Enforcment Agencies are TEAM oriented.
So many others work side by side to make communities safer and more secure everyday. Everyone we have is VITIALLY IMPORTANT everyday, not just the investigators.
Stay in School ! Be drug and crime free, people oriented and see where your individual talents might help make your local Police or Sheriff's departments better for your service when you are old enough to join. Everyone appreciates your interest and there will be plenty of opportunities later for you.
Thanks for Asking!
Most often an officer will first learn the craft as a patrol officer where your field decision making as well as report writing and scene investigative skills are developed and demonstrated for command level officers and prosecutors to see.
Next, based upon your demonstrated skill levels you may be chosen or test for other detective/investigator positions such as Property Crimes (Burglary, Theft & Auto Theft), Detective, Street Crimes Detective as well as Narcotics and Intelligence Detective, again where you get an opportunity to learn about advanced scene and case preparation, court case development & advanced interviewing techniques and again hone your skills.
More TV & Movie roles exist for Homicide Positions because of the nature of the crime. In reality, many officers find they actually love many of the other positions I just listed as much if not more than working death related cases. Law Enforcment Agencies are TEAM oriented.
So many others work side by side to make communities safer and more secure everyday. Everyone we have is VITIALLY IMPORTANT everyday, not just the investigators.
Stay in School ! Be drug and crime free, people oriented and see where your individual talents might help make your local Police or Sheriff's departments better for your service when you are old enough to join. Everyone appreciates your interest and there will be plenty of opportunities later for you.
Thanks for Asking!
Thanks for your encouragement!
Devon