Investigators should know what matters lie beyond their authority, and when, how, and to whom those matters should be referred. Investigators should know and respect the rights of those they investigate and those from whom they gather information. As public servants, state agency investigators have a duty to maintain the highest standards of ethics and respect for the public. Investigators should know how to competently gather and preserve evidence of wrongdoing. Sound management practices are essential to effective and fair investigations.
Civil investigators perform an essential service to the people of the state.
They comprise a profession that ought to be recognized and appreciated. The department shall also develop standards for training programs that are provided by other agencies for their own investigators. The department shall use curricula recommendations of the Investigative Study Group as a source for the development of these programs and standards. Create a committee to be known as the State Investigator Resource Team, to be appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of, the Director of Personnel. The Resource Team shall consist of members from state agencies, including higher education institutions, and shall include, but not be limited to, representatives of the Washington State Patrol and the Office of the Attorney General.