Investigations

The investigations division of a police department is a specialized unit tasked with conducting in-depth inquiries into criminal activities. This division plays a crucial role in gathering evidence, analyzing information, and building cases against individuals or groups suspected of violating the law. Unlike the patrol division, which focuses on immediate responses to incidents, the investigations division takes a more methodical and detailed approach to solving crimes.

Key responsibilities of the investigations division include:

1. Case Investigations: Investigations officers are responsible for conducting thorough and systematic examinations of criminal cases. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing crime scenes to establish the facts surrounding a crime.
2. Evidence Collection and Analysis: Investigators collect, preserve, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal cases. This can include fingerprints, DNA samples, surveillance footage, and other materials crucial to building a solid case.
3. Interviews and Interrogations: Investigators skillfully interview witnesses, victims, and suspects to extract pertinent information. Interrogations are conducted when necessary to obtain confessions or additional details crucial to solving a case.
4. Surveillance: Surveillance can be a key tool in the investigator’s toolkit. Officers may conduct covert observations to gather intelligence on suspected criminal activities and gather evidence for ongoing cases.
5. Collaboration with Other Agencies: Investigations units often collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, both local and federal, to share information and resources. This collaboration enhances the capacity to solve complex cases and address criminal networks that may operate across jurisdictional boundaries. It also protects from potential conflict with another jurisdiction’s investigations into the same individual as many crimes can cross over and affect more than one agency.
6. Cold Case Resolution: Investigators may revisit unsolved cases, known as cold cases, applying new techniques, technologies, or information to reexamine evidence and potentially bring resolution to longstanding investigations.
7. Court Testimony: Investigators are often required to testify in court as witnesses. Their role is to present evidence, explain investigative procedures, and provide insights that contribute to the legal proceedings.
8. Assistance to Prosecutors: Investigators collaborate with prosecutors, providing them with the necessary information and evidence to build a strong case for prosecution.