Cannabis Enforcement Agent (Exempt)

JOB
Under the general supervision of the Deputy Director, Enforcement or designee, the Cannabis Enforcement Agent is responsible for carrying out and executing the mandates, rules, and regulations of the Virgin Islands laws placed upon the Office of Cannabis Regulation (OCR) as it applies to compliance of licensed cannabis businesses and individuals, and safety of the Virgin Islands consumers. This position involves investigative and enforcement work involving critical thinking skills, the ability to understand and implement transitory Cannabis law, planning and conducting investigations relative to alleged or suspected violations of Cannabis or criminal law. The employee is expected to use considerable judgment and initiative in gathering and verifying information which is regularly reviewed for conformance with established policies, rules, regulations, and procedures. It also involves the production of recommendations to management on protocols, policies, and procedures. Incumbent must maintain Peace Officer status granted by the Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Police Department. This position requires a confidential relationship to a policymaker.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Enforces civil, criminal, and regulatory violations related to cannabis in accordance with Virgin Islands legislation. Makes arrests with or without a warrant and investigates violations or suspected violations of cannabis laws and rules promulgated by the OCR. Serves warrants, summonses, subpoenas, administrative citations, notices, and other legal processes related to cannabis enforcement. Provides assistance to other law enforcement officers and local officials in the performance of their duties as requested. Inspects and investigates licensed premises, cannabis-related equipment, accessories, and records (including confidential information) to ensure compliance with applicable laws. Enforces the inspection of licensed premises, equipment, accessories, and records, and mandates the testing or examination of cannabis items upon demand. Conducts background investigations on licensees, permittees, vendors, business representatives, and applicants to assess suitability for licensure. Receives and investigates consumer complaints and health/safety concerns. Collaborates with Field and Laboratory staff to ensure proper inspection and sampling according to Unit procedures. Provides necessary facts and data to assist attorneys in determining the appropriate legal action for each case. Prepares case reports based on evidence gathered during investigations, assisting attorneys in case development and ensuring legal procedures are followed. Assists attorneys in the investigation and development of civil, regulatory, or criminal cases; may conduct undercover operations as needed. Assists in the collection and preservation of evidence at major crime scenes, ensuring proper handling and safeguarding. Works closely with prosecutors to ensure adherence to established procedures for gathering and safeguarding evidence. Investigates administrative tort claims against the government by interviewing witnesses and gathering physical or documentary evidence to assess liability. Performs other related duties as assigned.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
FACTOR 1- KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION Knowledge of investigative techniques. Knowledge of the scope, application and interpretation of the specific laws and regulations pertaining to the investigative jurisdiction of the OCR. Knowledge of the various types of Investigations such as criminal, civil, and administrative. Knowledge of organization, methods, and record keeping practices. Skill in conducting interviews and interrogations, and recognizing, exploring, and exploiting leads. Skill in the use of firearms and operation of motor vehicles. Skill in the operation of a personal computer. Ability to learn principles of law enforcement. Ability to perform research, compile data, and prepare reports and report facts accurately in a concise, logical, and objective manner. Ability to make positive decisions, exercise sound judgment and function with minimum supervision. Ability to distinguish between conclusions and facts and to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the information obtained. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships. Ability to follow and understand oral and written directions. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to meet schedules and deadlines. Ability to function effectively under stress. Ability to see pertinent detail in symbols when reading, interpreting or preparing charts, diagrams, and code sheets. FACTOR 2- SUPERVISORY CONTROLS Work is supervised by the Deputy Director- Enforcement who provides directives and controls work site assignments. Incumbent is expected to perform with independence, exercising considerable judgment and initiative in gathering and verifying information. Any unusual situations or impediments that affect the incumbent's ability to report for duty or fulfill responsibilities should be promptly brought to the supervisor's attention. Work is reviewed regularly through meetings, discussions, reports, and evaluations. FACTOR 3- GUIDELINES Guidelines include the Virgin Islands Code, applicable rules and regulations, policies and procedures. FACTOR 4- COMPLEXITY Work complexity is determined based on the elements involved in resolving conflicting facts or evidence, and the sensitivity and confidentiality of the assignment. FACTOR 5- SCOPE AND EFFECT The purpose of the work is to effectively manage and maintain relationships with the public in executing the responsibilities as defined in Virgin Islands Code working in conjunction with Assistant Attorney Generals and other prosecutorial or judicial entities which can be used to bring cases to conclusion. FACTOR 6- PERSONAL CONTACTS Contacts are directors, supervisors, OCR investigators, DLCA Enforcement division personnel, the Hemp Commission, VIDA Division of Hemp, VIPD, VIFEMS, DOJ, DOH, witnesses, and USVI community members. FACTOR 7- PURPOSE OF CONTACTS Contacts are made to gather or amass data, facts, and evidence to ensure compliance with the applicable Virgin Islands code. FACTOR 8- PHYSICAL DEMANDS Work requires some physically strenuous activities, which include walking and standing for extended periods of time. Incumbent must be physically fit with above average stamina. FACTOR 9- WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed indoors and outdoors with the potential to be exposed to some unfavorable conditions. Driving a vehicle is also used to help carry out the assignment's functions while traveling to various destinations.