Criminal Investigations
The Investigations and Family Services Division consists of four Teams: the General Investigations Team, the Covert Services Team, the Family Services Team, and the School Resource Team. The division conducts follow-up investigations for certain crimes that were initially responded to by the Uniformed Patrol Division. It initiates cases, such as drugs and vice, using information received from informants and concerned citizens. Cases that are more serious in nature or will need an extensive investigation are also assigned to the Investigations and Family Services Division.
The division consists of 17 detectives, 9 school resource officers, an investigative assistant, 4 sergeants, and a captain. The investigative function is made up of the following units:
Detectives have developed areas of expertise in subjects such as homicide investigation, sex offenses, child abuse and neglect, juvenile crimes, forgery and fraud, white collar crime, computer crimes, arson, burglary, domestic violence, and a limited amount of crime scene processing. Detectives also maintain a close working relationship with other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies along with the District Attorney's office.
Detectives may carry an average of 30 cases each. To maximize effectiveness, the department uses solvability factors in assignment of cases. Cases that meet certain criteria are assigned for follow-up. However, each case is reviewed to consider special circumstances. This allows detectives and patrol officers to spend more time on cases that stand a greater likelihood of being solved.
The team supervisor works closely with Crime Stoppers to solicit information about crimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does someone become a detective?
A patrol officer must serve as a line investigator before being considered for the Criminal Investigative Division. Line investigators handle cases that do not require a detective but require more time than patrol officers typically can devote. Line investigators also assist in major crimes that occur on their shift until a detective arrives on the scene.
What happens with my case after it is assigned to a detective?
A detective will contact the victim within 72 hours after being assigned the case. The detective will review the patrol officer’s report and ask follow-up questions as needed. Investigation continues until the case is solved or all leads have been exhausted. This can range from a day or two to many years.
How can I get information regarding my case?
Call the detective assigned to your case for an update. The division’s administrative assistant may also be able to answer your questions and can be reached at (919) 319-4523.
Captain David Wulff
The team is responsible for the investigation of cases including, but not limited to, major crimes (including murder, rape, robbery, assault, and kidnapping), motor vehicle theft, forgery, fraud, identity theft, serious assaults, larceny, and burglary.
Town Hall
120 Wilkinson Ave
Cary, NC 27512
P.O. Box 8005
Cary, NC 27512-8005
(919) 469-4017
(919) 460-4904 (fax)