As time goes on, evidence gets spoiled, witnesses disappear, and surveillance video is copied over. RC: What makes a great homicide detective vs. a great cold case investigator? read more
A few instincts which help a homicide detective are keen observation skills, some crime scene training, extra training in numerous fields such as interrogation techniques, excellent knowledge of the laws and rights of subjects, compassion as you will be dealing with victim's relatives and friends, having informants on the street, good rapport with the patrol officers (you can't do it all alone), and as many extra classes offered by your state criminal justice dept. as you can get. read more
Education to Become a Homicide Detective Since you’ll first need to be a police officer before becoming a detective, like all cops, you’ll need a high school diploma, or even an associate’s or bachelor’s degree for some of the higher ranks. read more