Investigations

The Investigative Division is responsible for the investigation of crimes and preparation of cases for criminal prosecution. This division is supervised by a Lieutenant and includes two Sergeants, five Detectives, two School Resource Officers, one officer assigned to the Minnesota Financial Crimes Task Force, one officer assigned to the Southwest Hennepin Drug Task Force, and one Public Information Officer. Edina detectives are active in professional associations related to their areas of expertise, and routinely receive advanced training in areas such as computer and cell phone forensics, juvenile investigations, financial crime and vulnerable adult crime. In 2007, a Detective will receive specialized training in Internet crimes involving children.

After a report of criminal activity is taken, an Investigations Sergeant reads and assesses it for possible assignment to a Detective. The Detective develops and/or follows up on leads and evidence, and interviews witnesses and suspects. Photo line-ups, search warrants, subpoenas and confidential informants are among the tools a detective may use to compile a case for presentation to the city or county attorney for possible charging. Contrary to what is depicted on television crime shows, much of the work of Investigations is conducted on the phone and the computer.

In 2006, approximately 275 juvenile arrests were processed through the Division, and approximately 700 cases were investigated, including robbery, assault, child abuse, burglary, sex crimes, and financial crimes.

For more information about the Investigations Division, contact Lt. Dave Nelson, 952-826-0487. For more details about crime in Edina, see our Crime Statistics.