Unit 4: Selection and Crime Scene Process

The Background Investigation

Because of the expense in time and money of the background investigation, it is usually conducted after the applicant has been determined to be otherwise qualified and under serious consider for a position. Because of its experience in this area and its resources internationally, few agencies are capable of conducting this investigation as thoroughly as the FBI. With the state of modern technology in the area of communication, however, most agencies willing to expend the energy can conduct a rather thorough background check, even when it involves checking in distant and remote parts of the country.

To use the FBI’s model as an example, a thorough background examination will look into the applicant’s:

a. Residences - Residences for the past ten years will be verified and at least three neighbors contacted to determine the character and reputation of applicant and applicant’s family.

b. Employment - Employments will be verified and applicant’s personnel file will be reviewed and supervisors and co-workers interviewed to determine applicant’s job performance, late and absentee record, attitude, and potential to perform in the position being applied for.

c. Education - Graduations and degrees as well as extra-curricular activities will be verified and teachers and professors interviewed.

d. Military - Military service will be verified and applicant’s personnel file will be reviewed.

e. Motor Vehicle Record - Traffic accidents and motor vehicle violations will be reviewed.

f. Credit and criminal - Applicant’s credit history will be reviewed as an indication of applicant’s responsibility and character and criminal agencies will be checked in all areas that the applicant has lived or worked.

Scores for each component of the application process will be totaled to determine where the candidate’s name will appear on the list of qualified applicants.