Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) are individuals tasked with effecting exhaustive investigations in the aftermath of a crime. The two types of Crime Scene Investigators are Civilian and Sworn Crime Scene Investigators. The sworn in CSIs are policemen who have taken additional training in forensics. On the other hand, Civilian CSIs are people trained in forensic science although not police officers. The police department hires them to help analyze criminal cases ( Pazarena, 2016). This essay seeks to compare and contrast the pros and cons of the two types of CSIs
Among the advantages of the sworn in CSIs is that they are mandated by law to possess firearms which they use to protect themselves. On the other hand, the civilian CSIs are allowed to carry guns although they have to follow the legal processes stipulated for a weapon ownership ( Pazarena, 2016). Similarly, just like their counterparts, Civilian CSIs have a chance to get promoted depending on the effectiveness of their services.
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However, the number of sworn in CSIs to climb the ladder is higher than that of their civilian counterparts because they have more experience in dealing with the criminal investigation. Besides other benefits that come with climbing of the professional ladder, Civilian CSIs are paid reasonable salaries although that of the sworn in CSIs is a little higher than the civilian CSIs.
The CSI role has its disadvantages. For instance, it requires the personnel to work under dangerous conditions which may put their lives and those of their families at risk. Nevertheless, a sworn in CSI is not at greater risk because as compared to civilian CSI by virtue of being a police officer, criminals hesitate to cause them any harm. Also, in cases of imminent danger, the CSI operatives can defend themselves.
Contrary to this, a civilian CSI is not guaranteed of any respect from the public and those could be criminals who might not hesitate to harm them ( Pazarena, 2016). Further, since owning a fire gun may be a long process, self-defense by civilian CSI may not be an option keeping in mind that they have not undergone specialized military training. In conclusion, the CSI operators have some advantages and disadvantages which are different depending on whether they are civilian or sworn in.
Reference
Pazarena, L. (2016). Police Chiefs/Sheriffs’ Views on Varying Forensic Response. Journal of Forensic Science & Criminology , 4 (1), 1.
