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Differences between a television and a real-life detective

Being a new officer you need to understand that a detective is a sworn, certified member who possesses all the requisite knowledge, skills and physical abilities incumbent upon the position of an entry level deputy sheriff. In addition to that, a detective conducts investigations of homicides, suicides, accidental deaths, sudden infant death syndrome deaths and other suspicious deaths. The most important and essential job function of the position is attitude which includes interacting positively and cooperating with co-workers, responding politely to customers, working as a team member, functioning under intense time pressure and responding in a positive manner to supervision.

A real life of a police detective is never easy. Nobody ever said it would be easy. Working on fundamental mysteries and heinous crimes never is. In television, a detective’s life is different. He could be saved from a fatal danger through the director’s cut, but you can’t do this in real life. Television has extraordinary power to shape peoples’ expectations. Stories are being stretched to keep you interested but in real life, it simply doesn’t work that way. You have to be completely vigilant at all times.

You must always know that your/our work involves considerable risk, hazardous exposure, and personal danger. And as an officer you must be able to take appropriate action under stress and maintain effective public contacts, exercising tact, and discretion.

References

Smit, B. (1998) Investigating Morale amongst Police Detectives. Unpublished report. Department of Criminology, UNISA.

Stoddard, E. R. (1983) ‘Blue Coat Crime.’ in Klockars, C.B. (ed) Thinking About Police. New York: McGraw Hill