Criminal Investigations Division
Thorough investigations. Consistent follow-up. Justice for DeSoto County.
Our Mission
The Criminal Investigations Division provides professional investigative services to the citizens of DeSoto County through thorough investigations and consistent follow-up on criminal activity.
Key Responsibilities
- Investigate felony crimes and organize investigations into case files for grand jury
- Manage the sex offender registry for DeSoto County
- Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to conduct joint investigations
- Investigate claims or reports of abuse or neglect of children within our jurisdiction
- Crime Scene Technicians photograph, document, and process crime scenes; manage the evidence vault; and coordinate with crime labs and other agencies to maintain an efficient evidence processing system
Day in the Life
No two days in investigations are the same. You might start the day planning to review case files and complete paperwork, only to be called to a complex shooting involving multiple crime scenes and coordination with other detectives and divisions. A routine suspect interview can quickly turn into new admissions that uncover previously unreported crimes.
Success in investigations requires adaptability, quick thinking, and the ability to shift priorities at a moment's notice while pursuing whatever leads the case presents.
Training & Development
- Monthly divisional training
- Specialized training coordinated with divisional assignments
- Certified Investigator training
- Interview and interrogation
- Courtroom testimony
Why CID?
Every day brings a new challenge. CID has numerous specialties and areas of focus, allowing for a broad approach to investigating crimes. Investigators have the unique opportunity to work cases from the beginning through the prosecution and conclusion—something few other divisions can offer.
Specialized Units
CID is made up of several specialized units that focus on distinct areas of criminal investigation. Each has a dedicated page below.
Major Crimes Unit
Detectives focused on violent crime, property crime, gun crimes, and financial crime — from initial call through prosecution.
Sex Offender Registry Unit
Registry management, compliance verification, and joint operations with the U.S. Marshals on absconded offenders.
SAAFE — Sexual Assaults, Abuse, and Forensic Exams
ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children), CAC (Child Advocacy Center) cases, and DFU (Digital Forensics Unit) examinations — coordinated, victim-centered, trauma-informed.
Ready to Investigate?
CID positions are typically filled from within the Sheriff's Office. The first step is to apply as a Deputy Sheriff and build your career toward an investigator assignment.
View Deputy Sheriff Careers