About the Criminal Investigation Bureau
The mission of the Investigations Bureau is to provide investigative expertise to our citizens and our patrol officers to enhance public safety.
Detectives are responsible for developing follow-up leads, and for locating additional suspects, victims and witnesses. Many times the detectives can help provide resources and services for crime victims and witnesses.
Detectives also obtain and serve search warrants, obtain arrest warrants, and participate in the courtroom process. Recovering and releasing stolen property, as well as finding and processing criminal evidence are major components of the RPD detective function.
The Investigative Services Division is committed to aid and support all law enforcement entities working projects in Richmond as we collaborate to serve our communities.
Sections
Investigations Bureau is divided into three separate sections:
Forensic Unit
The Investigative Services Division also includes a Forensic Unit. The Forensic Unit consists of a highly trained detective whose primary function is to identify, collect, preserve and process evidence related to major criminal incidents. The Forensic Unit prepares evidence for the Crime Lab and presents evidence in court related to significant criminal events. The forensic detective coordinates the Crime Scene Investigation Unit (which operates in the Field Services Bureau) and provides updated training for officers regarding evidence and evidence-related issues.