Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
References
Timeline
Generic
David Skillen

David Skillen

Banbridge,Down

Summary

A seasoned Detective with 21 years of experience in law enforcement, specialising in criminal investigation, cyber crime, and forensic analysis. Demonstrates expertise in drug identification and risk management, supported by comprehensive training and certifications. Proficient in evidence gathering, suspect interrogation, and digital media investigations, with a proven track record of solving complex cases leading to successful prosecutions. Skilled in preparing court files for Magistrates, Crown, and High Court proceedings while maintaining strict confidentiality of sensitive information. Committed to enhancing community safety through effective crime prevention strategies and multi-agency collaboration.

Individual with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, coupled with exceptional communication and teamwork abilities. Demonstrated proficiency in handling complex situations and working under pressure. Poised to make significant impact in Investigator role.

Overview

39
39
years of professional experience
7948
7948
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Detective constable

Police Service of Northern Ireland
Belfast, Down
02.2004 - Current
  • Conducted risk assessments prior to executing search warrants, minimising potential dangers to team members.
  • Implemented innovative investigation strategies, leading to efficient resolutions of complex criminal cases.
  • Enhanced community trust through visible engagement in local neighbourhoods.
  • Liaised with partner agencies to ensure comprehensive understanding of ongoing investigations.
  • Achieved successful case resolutions by gathering and analysing evidence thoroughly.
  • Provided expert testimony during court proceedings, contributing to equitable judgments.
  • Maintained confidentiality while handling sensitive information discreetly.
  • Utilised advanced technology tools for effective surveillance operations.
  • Pursued ongoing professional development opportunities resulting in up-to-date knowledge of investigative techniques and legal requirements.
  • Conducted interviews to gather essential case information often leading to breakthroughs in investigations.
  • Coordinated multi-agency responses during major incident management improving overall effectiveness of response mechanisms.
  • Conducted risk assessments before executing search warrants reducing potential dangers to team members involved.
  • Resolved complex cases with thorough analysis and logical deduction.
  • Prepared comprehensive reports on investigative findings facilitating informed decision-making by superiors or prosecution teams.
  • Gathered crucial evidence for successful prosecutions through meticulous crime scene investigations.
  • Ensured compliance with legal guidelines during all stages of investigation protecting the integrity of evidence collected.
  • Managed caseload effectively, ensuring all leads were pursued and documented thoroughly.
  • Analysed data from various sources, including CCTV footage leading to identification of suspects or witnesses.
  • Provided expert witness testimony during court proceedings resulting in successful convictions.
  • Gathered intelligence discreetly, preserving confidentiality and source protection whilst ensuring valuable information acquisition.
  • Prepared thorough, accurate case files to support investigations and facilitate arrests.
  • Secured charges against suspected criminals, gaining desired outcomes for victims and communities.
  • Acquired and served warrants for arrests, searches or other purposes.
  • Liaised with prosecution partners to manage processes around court proceedings.
  • Testified in courts to support case evidence and findings and secure convictions for suspects.
  • Assessed threat, harm and risk from intelligence reports and selected management or dissemination options.
  • Submitted detailed reports for incident occurrences during on-duty hours.
  • Arrested and transported suspects to police stations or holding cells.
  • Prioritised community safety by targeting reductions in crime with police patrols and reporting systems.
  • Obtained victim and witness statements, documenting evidence to support investigations.
  • Gathered evidence carefully at crime scenes, enforcing forensic procedure adherence for accuracy.
  • Kept sensitive intelligence safe and secure from unauthorised access.
  • Harnessed deductive reasoning and analysis to make informed decisions and conclusions.
  • Searched restricted-access databases for vehicles or outstanding warrants.
  • Operated firearms and non-lethal weapons to subdue and arrest suspects.
  • Conducted traffic stops and issued citations to offenders.
  • Supported victims throughout investigations through listening to concerns and acting on requests.
  • Stayed up-to-date on the latest laws, procedures and investigation best practices through training.
  • Attended court hearings to testify, provide evidence and support witnesses or victims.
  • Worked on various drug trafficking, violence and robbery cases.
  • Interviewed suspects and witnesses to gather evidence.
  • Collected intelligence using open sources and monitoring phone calls.

Restaurant manager

various
Belfast/Bangor/Lisburn/Banbridge, Antrim/Down
01.2000 - 02.2004
  • Developed relationships with suppliers for better inventory management.
  • Coordinated events and parties to increase restaurant revenue.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints promptly.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, reduced customer waiting time.
  • Monitored stock levels regularly; minimised waste and over-ordering incidents.
  • Conducted regular meetings with staff; communicated updates and received feedback.
  • Trained new team members, enhanced service quality.
  • Conducted regular inspections for adherence to food hygiene norms and standards.
  • Managed daily operations for smooth restaurant functioning.
  • Interacted positively with customers, effectively promoting restaurant facilities and services.
  • Improved Front-of-House (FOH) staff productivity by elevating greeting and seating processes.
  • Resolved complaints calmly and professionally to achieve positive customer outcomes.
  • Completed accurate end-of-day financial routines for cash and card transactions.
  • Coordinated Front of House and Back of House staff ahead of events for smooth execution to maximise guest satisfaction.

Chef

Various
Belfast/Lisburn, Antrim/Down
01.1999 - 01.2000
  • Demonstrated proficiency in various cooking techniques, improved dish presentation.
  • Coordinated prep work, streamlined the cooking process.
  • Optimised workflow processes reduced time spent on administrative tasks.
  • Led successful catering events provided excellent dining experiences for guests.
  • Streamlined kitchen operations for enhanced efficiency.
  • Adhered to strict hygiene standards, ensured a clean working environment.
  • Collaborated closely with suppliers, secured fresh ingredients daily.
  • Maintained high safety standards during food preparation and serving procedures.
  • Created balanced meal plans abiding by dietary restrictions.
  • Supervised all kitchen staff to maintain high quality standards.
  • Reduced food waste to improve profitability.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance increased lifespan of kitchen appliances.
  • Followed health and safety guidelines to keep food storage safe, prevent spoilage and minimise cross-contamination risks.
  • Handled and stored food with proper methods to eliminate illness risks and prevent cross-contamination.
  • Responded to dietary concerns and food allergies, creating dishes that met customer needs and palates.
  • Oversaw chefs, cooks and kitchen support staff to run smooth operation.
  • Applied culinary expertise toward development of seasoned, complex and speciality foods.
  • Tracked ingredient use and portioning, identifying opportunities to reduce costs and improve profitability.

Apprentice joiner

Farrans
Belfast, Antrim
02.1988 - 01.1989
  • Collaborated with other tradespeople on large scale building projects, honing interpersonal communication skills.
  • Completed framework construction without compromising structural integrity or aesthetic appeal.
  • Performed routine maintenance on woodworking machinery, preventing unnecessary breakdowns and delays.
  • Utilised hand tools for detailed joinery work, showcasing fine craftsmanship skills.
  • Gained proficiency in woodwork by assisting with carpentry tasks.
  • Supported senior joiners to complete complex joinery tasks.
  • Learned how to use power tools effectively, enhancing workshop efficiency.
  • Cut wood on machines or by hand depending on complexity of design.
  • Fit range of first fixings, second fixings and formwork.
  • Assisted in the installation of doors for improved home functionality.
  • Perfected finishing techniques such as sanding varnishing and painting enhancing product aesthetics.

Carpentry apprentice

Youth Training Programme
Belfast, Antrim
09.1986 - 01.1988
  • Exhibited flexibility in work schedule to accommodate urgent client requests or project deadlines.
  • Optimised use of available materials through careful planning and allocation, avoiding unnecessary expenses.
  • Handled material inventory management tasks efficiently, preventing shortage or wastage of resources.
  • Familiarised self with latest industry trends through ongoing research, keeping up-to-date with advancements in the field.
  • Collaborated effectively with team members on large scale projects for smooth execution and completion.
  • Demonstrated commitment towards learning new techniques and processes in the field of carpentry.
  • Maintained clean and organised workspace, promoting a safe and efficient work environment.
  • Gained proficiency with hand and power tools to increase efficiency in carpentry tasks.

Education

Higher National Diploma - Police Operational Skilles

Queens University of Belfast
Northern Ireland
02.2004 - 06.2005

Certificate of Higher Education - Police Studies

University of Ulster
Coleraine
02.2004 - 11.2004

Certificate of Higher Education - Numeracy

Rupert Stanley College
Belfast

GCSEs - Certificate of Secondary education

Deramore High School
Belfast

NVQ Level 1 - Arithmetic

Deramore High School
Belfast

NVQ Level 1 - Arithmetic

Royal Society of Arts
Belfast

Skills

  • Drug identification knowledge Successful completion of Drug Expert evidence training course in November 2021 which allows adjudication on the identification and value of drugs and give expert evidence to that to Court
  • Cybercrime knowledge In 2010 Completed training as a Telecommunications Liaison Officer and received an ACPO Accreditation in Communication Data Core skills from NPIA, Wyboston Which was then followed up in 2015 by completing an NPCC College of Policing Digital Media Investigators Course which amalgamated the previous skills which allows the investigation of crimes by utilising Telecoms and Closed source computer based information Then again to further enhance this training in 2023 Completed an Open Source Investigation course allowing for deeper investigation using Internet
  • Risk Management In 2008 Completed a Risk Assessment course provided by PSNI Health and Safety
  • Forensic analysis in 2017 Completed an IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) course in Motor Vehicle Identification Programme which allows use forensic examination of vehicles to identify their true identity
  • Criminal investigation In 2007 Successfully passed the entrance exam for Detective status and in September 2008 completed ICIDP (Initial Crime Investigators Development Programme) qualifying as a Detective As a result of this qualification of PIP2 (PEACE Level 1 and 2) interviewing
  • Firearms handling As an active officer training has been received and completed in the use and handling of Firearms due to routinely carried a firearm on and off duty This training is refreshed on a 6 monthly basis
  • Complex investigations
  • Evidence gathering
  • Suspect interrogation
  • Investigation techniques
  • Evidence gathering techniques
  • Court hearings
  • Investigating techniques
  • Evidence analysis
  • Writing documents and reports
  • Long term case management
  • Interview techniques
  • Digital evidence collection
  • Law enforcement legislation knowledge
  • Use of police databases
  • Report-writing
  • Risk Management
  • Multi-agency collaboration
  • Solving complex cases
  • Preparing Magistrates, Crown and High Court files
  • Effective time management
  • Crime scene processing
  • Evidence collection
  • Fraud detection
  • Witness interviewing
  • Community engagement
  • Understanding of court procedures
  • Prisoner handling
  • Organised documentation
  • Investigative intuition
  • Legal procedure familiarity
  • Knowledge of criminal law
  • Police report writing
  • Youth crime prevention
  • Familiarity with police software
  • Witness protection protocols As a Detective of 17 years I have investigated many cases utilising both experience and the skills attained through training to complete both regular and highly complex cases usually resulting in the prosecution of offenders through the courts I have been involved in all aspects of cases from organisation of warrants for searches and arrests, processing and interviewing of prisoners, gathering of evidence from sources including witnesses, electronic/digital and physical, completion of relevant paperwork and case files to a high standard and attending and presenting this to the courts As a member of PSNI I am acutely aware of the requirements with regard to sensitive information and the necessity to protect that sensitivity

Accomplishments

I have received a number of certificate's in recognition of good work and a Highly commended notification for work above and beyond the call of duty.

Affiliations

I enjoy various sports including Golf, football and squash (either playing of watching) and I also have interests in computer technology. I enjoy making items with the use of my own CNC machine, 3D printing and computers.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Detective constable

Police Service of Northern Ireland
02.2004 - Current

Higher National Diploma - Police Operational Skilles

Queens University of Belfast
02.2004 - 06.2005

Certificate of Higher Education - Police Studies

University of Ulster
02.2004 - 11.2004

Restaurant manager

various
01.2000 - 02.2004

Chef

Various
01.1999 - 01.2000

Apprentice joiner

Farrans
02.1988 - 01.1989

Carpentry apprentice

Youth Training Programme
09.1986 - 01.1988

Certificate of Higher Education - Numeracy

Rupert Stanley College

GCSEs - Certificate of Secondary education

Deramore High School

NVQ Level 1 - Arithmetic

Deramore High School

NVQ Level 1 - Arithmetic

Royal Society of Arts

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David Skillen