The Southern Pines Police Department is introducing a new public-safety role aimed at improving response times and easing the workload on patrol officers. The department is now hiring part-time civilian crash investigators, a position designed to handle certain minor traffic accidents as the town continues to grow.
According to Deputy Chief Robert Heaton, the new role acts as a “force multiplier,” allowing sworn officers to focus on higher-priority and more urgent calls while civilian investigators manage non-injury, low-level crashes.
A New Approach to Managing Traffic Crashes
The position stems from state legislation passed in 2023 that allows civilian staff to investigate specific types of vehicle collisions. After reviewing similar programs at other agencies, Southern Pines approved two part-time civilian crash investigator positions.
One investigator is currently undergoing training, while applications remain open for the second role.
Civilian crash investigators will be able to respond directly to qualifying minor wrecks, complete official accident reports, assist with traffic control, and support patrol officers in a variety of non-enforcement duties.
What Civilian Crash Investigators Can — and Can’t — Do
These investigators will have clearly defined responsibilities and limitations. While they can investigate crashes and complete official reports for insurance purposes, they cannot issue citations, enforce traffic laws, or make arrests.
Their specially outfitted vehicles are intentionally distinct from patrol cars, featuring yellow lights, the town seal, and no badges or blue lights — a visual reminder that they are not sworn officers.
If an incident turns out to be more serious than initially reported, investigators can immediately request assistance from patrol officers to take over the scene.
Expanded Duties Beyond Crash Investigations
In addition to handling minor accidents, civilian crash investigators will assist with:
- Traffic control at accident scenes and downtown events
- Responding to disabled or abandoned vehicles
- Parking lot crash investigations in shopping centers
- Assisting patrol with tasks such as installing roadside speed tracking signs
The department says parking lots, in particular, account for a significant number of minor crashes — making them an ideal area for civilian investigators to help reduce patrol workload.
Training, Schedule, and Pay
Once hired, investigators will complete:
- 32 hours of classroom training
- 160 hours of field training
Southern Pines Police also has three certified traffic crash reconstructionists on staff to support training and oversight.
The two investigators will work opposite weekday shifts, typically between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., when minor crash volume is highest.
The position pays $23 to $29 per hour, for 20 to 25 hours per week. Prior law enforcement experience is not required, with pay determined by a candidate’s education and training background.
Department leaders say the addition reflects a proactive approach to growth, traffic safety, and efficient use of public resources.