Criminal Investigative Section

Investigating criminal offenses is one of the most vital responsibilities of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office. At the heart of this effort is our Criminal Investigative Section (CIS)—a dedicated team of highly trained detectives committed to solving crimes and bringing offenders to justice.

About the Criminal Investigative Section

Our CIS is comprised of nine sworn detectives who investigate both felony and misdemeanor crimes throughout Kanawha County. Working closely with our Road Patrol Division and partnering agencies, these detectives pursue every lead with diligence and professionalism.

When a crime is reported, an incident report is created by the Road Patrol Division. These reports are reviewed by the Chief of Detectives, and if further investigation is needed, the case is assigned to a detective. Each case is pursued thoroughly—either until it’s resolved or all leads have been exhausted.

24/7 Commitment

Detectives are available 24 hours a day to respond to major crime scenes and provide vital support to patrol officers. Their responsibilities include:

  • Crime scene investigations

  • Evidence collection and processing

  • Surveillance and undercover operations

  • Intelligence gathering

Our detectives also collaborate with specialized units to expand investigative capabilities and reach.

Forensic and Crime Scene Support

Supporting our detectives are two civilian experts—an investigator and a crime scene technician. To enhance evidence handling, the Sheriff’s Office maintains a fully equipped forensic laboratory that includes specialized chambers, lighting, and a garage bay for processing vehicles.

The Crime Scene Technician analyzes collected evidence and determines if further testing is required. This meticulous approach ensures that evidence is preserved and utilized to its fullest potential.

Kanawha Bureau of Investigation (KBI)

Formed in 2007, the Kanawha Bureau of Investigation is a collaborative task force made up of detectives from municipalities across Kanawha County and the Sheriff’s Office. By sharing resources, personnel, and equipment, the KBI enhances communication, reduces costs, and focuses more manpower on solving major crimes.

Digital Forensics Unit

In response to the growing role of technology in crime, the Sheriff’s Office has developed a state-of-the-art digital forensics laboratory. This unit processes digital evidence from a wide range of crimes and supports agencies across the state. We are proud to work alongside the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI/WV Cyber Crimes Task Force in these efforts.

Through diligent, well planned investigative techniques, Detectives gather, process, analyze, and preserve evidence in the best attempts to solve crimes.  Detectives of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office/Kanawha Bureau of Investigation work hard to resolve each crime and make the best efforts possible to prepare each case for prosecution in order to secure and protect the citizens and property in Kanawha County.

 

A Commitment to Justice

With careful planning, cutting-edge techniques, and tireless dedication, the detectives of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and the Kanawha Bureau of Investigation work daily to protect our community. Each case is handled with the utmost professionalism, from the crime scene to the courtroom—ensuring justice is served and our citizens remain safe.