The local public defender’s office is looking for an investigator after the state has agreed to fund a new position for Warren and Van Buren counties.“There were 18 positions available across the state this year and we were able to get one for an investigator,” said 31st Judicial District Public Defender John Partin, noting he was able to show the state through a statistical report there is a need for a detective here. “Right now we have to investigate the cases ourselves.”Partin said the search for an investigator has already begun and the pay and benefits offered will be competitive with other investigative and law enforcement positions. The pay, he noted, will be decided on a sliding scale used by the state that takes into account things like years of experience in the field.“We want someone with a background in investigation,” said Partin, noting the applicant does not necessarily have to be a current law enforcement officer as long as he or she has the needed experience.