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General Characteristics of
a Competent Investigator
I. INTRODUCTION
In the investigative realm, as in any other occupation, certain skills, qualities, and competencies are
essential to success. Although differing personalities, styles of operation, and skill levels exist, there
are common traits that constitute the professional investigator. Although there is variation in how to
accomplish the investigative task, there is a sort of “investigative DNA.” Russell Colling, in his text,
Hospital Security, portrays the solid investigator as a “natural.”
The really good investigator has a natural aptitude and is intrigued by the investigative pro ...