Detectives

The Detective Unit is responsible for the follow-up investigation of serious crimes occurring within the City of Farmington. While patrol officers handle the initial response and immediate safety needs of a scene, detectives take the lead on long-term cases, working methodically to identify suspects, recover stolen property, and prepare cases for successful prosecution.

Investigative Generalists

The Farmington Police Department utilizes a "generalist" model for our investigative team. This means our detectives are highly versatile professionals trained to handle a diverse range of complex cases rather than being confined to a single specialty. On any given day, a detective may be working on:

• Crimes Against Persons: Including aggravated battery, robbery, and high-level assaults.
• Property Crimes: Such as large-scale burglaries, felony thefts, and complex fraud or financial crimes.
• Major Felonies: Coordinating the response to the most serious incidents impacting our community.
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The Role of a Detective

A detective’s work begins when the initial "leads" of a patrol report require deeper exploration. Their primary responsibilities include:

• Interviews & Interrogations: Speaking with victims, witnesses, and suspects to gather facts and build a clear timeline of events.
• Search Warrants: Authoring and executing legal warrants to search residences, vehicles, or digital devices for evidence.
• Case Management: Compiling all reports, forensic findings, and statements into a comprehensive file for the District Attorney’s Office.
• Courtroom Testimony: Providing expert testimony during hearings and trials to ensure the facts of the case are presented accurately to a judge or jury.
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Collaboration for Justice

While the detectives are the "case agents," they do not work in a vacuum. They serve as the central hub of the investigative process, coordinating closely with our Crime Scene Investigators for forensic evidence and our Victim Advocates to ensure those impacted by crime are supported.

By maintaining a broad knowledge base and a relentless attention to detail, the Detective Unit ensures that the most complex and harmful crimes in Farmington receive the thorough investigation they deserve.