Fast forward 2 weeks, I've now been through the introductory meeting and a few hours training at the courthouse which included meeting staff and an initial look at the forms and a review of the beginning steps in conducting an investigation.  I've read the book supplied by the trainers...so far the investigatory work involved in computer system design is not totally different from what is done in this function.  Research...chart the available information...begin a plan of action...write  a preliminary report.

I am,however, somehwat concerned regarding the differences in the laws in this state from the state I spent my career.  Actually the differences have the potential to make this job easier but I am still a citizen and somewhat worried about privacy.  This concern revolves around the fact that arrest records are public no matter what the outcome is.  In other words if a person is arrested the local jail creates a record with a mugshot.  I could be wrong but it doesn't appear as if that record is ever updated except with jail information..i.e. release bond etc.  So, for example, should the prosecution decide not to go forward or the case is nolle'd that record remains for the public to query.  Has no-one ever been refused a job based on an unprosecuted arrest?