Carolyn Harrison Smekal
Apache Junction,AZ
Summary
Dynamic Senior Investigator with USDA, APHIS, skilled in advanced investigative techniques and ethical conduct. Proven track record in conducting thorough investigations, enhancing public safety, and fostering collaboration with federal agencies. Adept at detailed report writing and maintaining confidentiality, ensuring compliance with legal standards while effectively managing sensitive case information.
Experienced with conducting in-depth investigations and evidence analysis. Utilizes advanced investigative techniques to uncover crucial information and resolve cases. Strong understanding of legal procedures and compliance requirements.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Investigator
USDA, APHIS, Investigative Enforcement Service
03.2009 - Current
- Conducted thorough investigations to gather relevant information and evidence.
- Assisted in documenting findings and preparing reports for review.
- Maintained accurate records of case details and investigative activities.
- Documented findings and prepared detailed reports.
- Conducted thorough face-to-face interviews with employers, families, neighbors, friends, and suspects, and documented investigative findings.
- Collected, analyzed and interpreted information, documentation, and physical evidence associated with investigations.
- Collaborated with federal agencies on investigations.
- Interviewed and interrogated suspects.
- Ensured compliance with legal regulations during investigations, minimizing risk for litigation or procedural errors.
- Conducted interviews with witnesses and clients.
- Prepared case reports from allegations, transcripts of interviews and physical evidence.
- Carefully documented statements, observations, and evidentiary materials.
- Managed sensitive case information with utmost discretion, ensuring confidentiality and integrity in all proceedings.
- Developed comprehensive reports that accurately detailed investigation findings and supported legal proceedings.
- Organized community outreach programs to raise awareness of fraud prevention strategies, enhancing local security.
- Coordinated with federal agencies on cross-jurisdictional cases, fostering effective collaboration and achieving shared goals.
- Conducted field investigations to gather evidence and information for case assessments.
- Assisted in documenting findings through detailed reports and observations.
- Engaged with witnesses and subjects to obtain relevant statements and insights.
- Utilized investigative software to analyze data and track case progress.
- Learned and adhered to legal protocols and ethical standards during investigations.
- Adapted quickly to evolving situations, demonstrating flexibility in investigation techniques.
- Maintained detailed records of all investigative activities, allowing for easy retrieval when needed during court proceedings or client consultations.
- Managed caseloads effectively while prioritizing urgent cases to meet deadlines without compromising thoroughness or attention to detail.
- Implemented strategies to minimize risk exposure during potentially dangerous assignments, ensuring personal safety as well as that of colleagues involved in the investigation.
- Improved client satisfaction by providing timely updates on case progress and maintaining open lines of communication.
- Promoted ethical conduct among peers by leading by example and actively discouraging any unethical practices.
- Conducted witness interviews with professionalism and empathy, eliciting vital information for case resolution.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies, strengthening relationships and increasing information sharing.
- Consistently maintained a professional demeanor even under challenging circumstances, building trust with clients and colleagues alike.
- Developed comprehensive reports detailing findings and recommendations, facilitating informed decision-making by clients.
Federal Inspector
USDA, APHIS, Veterinary Services
03.1998 - 03.2009
- Conducted thorough inspections to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Identified potential hazards and implemented corrective actions to enhance workplace safety.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to resolve inspection discrepancies efficiently.
- Developed and maintained inspection documentation, ensuring accuracy and traceability.
- Prepared reports detailing findings of inspections, investigations, and tests.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations through meticulous attention to detail during inspections.
- Upheld codes and regulations governing materials, processes, and procedures.
- Identified potential hazards and recommended corrective actions, ensuring a safer work environment for all employees.
- Enhanced company safety standards by conducting thorough inspections of equipment and facilities.
- Effectively communicated with clients and management to ensure alignment on inspection objectives, requirements, and expectations.
- Maintained accurate records of all inspections performed, allowing for more informed decision making regarding maintenance schedules and resource allocation.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of regulatory changes to ensure inspections were conducted in line with current laws.
- Provided expert guidance to companies on how to rectify issues found during inspections, leading to improved practices.
- Fostered positive relationships with businesses and regulatory bodies, facilitating smoother inspection processes.
Education
No Degree - Criminal Justice
Portland State University
Portland, ORNo Degree - Public Health
Walden University
Minneapolis, MNAgriculture Business
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ06-2006
Skills
- Public safety protocols
- Interviewing skills
- Investigation skills
- Work assignments
- File management
- Scheduling proficiency
- File preparation
- Interrogation strategies
- Expert interviewing skills
- Advanced investigative techniques
- Investigative tools
- Detailed report writing
- Ethical and honest
- Calm in crisis situations
- Evidence processing
- Interrogation skills
- Witness interviews
- Interviewing witnesses
- Defensive tactics
- Records management
- Data review
- Interview techniques
- Risk analysis
- Research
- Technology-savvy
- Resource management
- Report preparation
- Report development
- Compliance assessment
Accomplishments
- Achieved annual exceeds on all performance reviews. Received awards for accomplishments and conducting trainings .
Certification
- Certified [Job Title], [Company Name] - [Timeframe]
- [Area of certification] Training - [Timeframe]
Timeline
Senior Investigator
USDA, APHIS, Investigative Enforcement Service
03.2009 - Current
Federal Inspector
USDA, APHIS, Veterinary Services
03.1998 - 03.2009
No Degree - Criminal Justice
Portland State University
No Degree - Public Health
Walden University
Agriculture Business
Arizona State University
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