There are two types of detectives in the UK: police (public) detectives and private detectives (also known as private investigators). Whilst the roles can share similar responsibilities, they are different. In this article, you will focus on how to become a police detective.
A police detective is also called a detective constable, warranted officer, serious and complex investigator or specialist investigator. They are a specialist accredited plain-clothes police officer who investigates and solves crimes involving drugs, theft, child protection, fraud, public protection, homicide, violence, counter-terrorism and cybercrime.
It is important to note that the term detective is not a rank within the police. It is a descriptor that indicates the training and competence (knowledge, skills and experience) involved in their specialist role. They are seen as equals in pay and rank to uniformed police officers.
Detectives can work in specialist departments, such as the criminal investigation department (CID) and various squads, e.g. drugs, fraud and firearms. Therefore, what a detective does will depend on their specialisms and the department in which they work. The particulars of each case they investigate will also influence their day-to-day tasks, as they are unique.
Detectives have many duties, including attending crime scenes and investigating, interviewing suspects, offenders and witnesses, examining records and managing their cases. The role also encompasses preparing case files and completing other paperwork. A detective’s main aim is to investigate and solve serious and complex crimes to bring justice to victims impacted by crime. They also play a part in prevention. A good detective can help remove dangerous criminals from the street and prevent or reduce further crimes.
Detectives will work with many people, including their uniformed counterparts, multi-agency teams, and police support staff. They will also liaise with other law enforcement professionals, victims of crime, suspects, witnesses, members of the public, government agencies, legal professionals (i.e. solicitors, barristers, judges and court staff), the media, other agencies and others relating to cases, e.g. schools and social services.
Detectives mainly work for one of the 43 police forces in England and Wales (39 in England and 4 in Wales). Scotland (Police Scotland) and Northern Ireland (PSNI) have single police forces for their entire countries. Therefore, a detective can work in any UK region, county or city if opportunities are available.