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Becoming a homicide detective requires completing a specialized training program, passing record checks, gaining relevant experience, and having a clean criminal record. Related experience can be gained through work as a police officer or in related positions.
Thanks in part to the way they are portrayed in the media, many people grow up wanting to become a homicide detective. In North America, a detective is an experienced police officer who typically completes a combination of educational requirements and a detective exam. This type of position is considered an officer or police promotion, which is an entry-level position in almost all police forces in the world.
Upon successful promotion to the rank of detective, he or she is eligible to apply for positions in the police or law enforcement department. Homicide is a department responsible for investigating wrongful deaths. This category includes murder, vehicular homicide, or wrongful death. Successfully securing a position in this department is the only way to become a homicide detective.
In the media, a homicide detective is portrayed as someone who works one case at a time, interacts with various colleagues and support staff, and manages to identify the suspect, locate him, and bring the case to trial. To realize that dream and become a homicide detective, candidates must complete a specialized training program, pass preliminary record checks, and gain relevant experience.
To become a homicide detective, most people complete a college or university program in law enforcement. Alternatively, candidates can complete the training program at a private police college. This basic training is required to qualify for a position with a law enforcement agency or police department. The purpose of this educational requirement is to ensure that applicants have a certain degree of maturity, can meet the intellectual requirements of that position, and are able to pass a range of personality, physical, and mental health assessments.
All homicide detectives must have a clean criminal record with no misdemeanors or violent crimes. Exact requirements vary by department and state. Additional checks are completed as part of the application process, such as substance abuse and credit checks. All applicants should read the drug and alcohol screening policy as these tests are becoming more common as part of the application process, during the training program and as a condition of employment.
Related experience is typically gained through work as a police officer. Other positions that contain transferable skills include army sergeant, air force cadet, security officer, or related position. Talk to the police human resources department to determine exactly what experience is needed to become a homicide detective.
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