Investigations
Investigations
Detectives in our Investigations Unit are trained professionals who conduct criminal investigations and assist in the prosecution process. Detectives investigate many different types of crimes including, but not limited to: fraud, computer crimes, thefts, assault, child abuse, rape, manslaughter, and murder.
Detectives initiate their own investigations and also provide investigative support to the patrol team. Typically, when a call for service is received, the responding Patrol Deputy does the initial investigation. If the case requires special investigative skills or follow-up investigations, a Detective is assigned.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office currently has three full-time Detectives assigned to Investigations. Detectives are Patrol Deputies temporarily assigned to this long-term (usually 3 – 5 year) assignment. They receive specialized training in areas such as crime scene reconstruction, evidence collection and analysis, computer forensics, interview and interrogation, search and seizure, and warrant affidavit preparation. When they rotate back to Patrol they take that training and experience with them.
Detectives work closely with colleagues from other local law enforcement agencies and participate on several multi-agency investigative teams. They also work closely with the Benton County District Attorney’s Office to help prepare cases for prosecution.
