The detective function is a vital element in the Sheriff's law enforcement plan for Lane County.The Criminal Investigation unit (CIS) is focused on violent crimes (homicide, rape, felony assault and sexual crimes against children) that require extensive follow-up for successful prosecution.

This unit consists of two detectives assigned to investigate violent crime. Reductions in this year's budget committee process removed investigative resources for property and drug offenses in addition to a dedicated domestic violence investigator.

Working as a unit, Criminal Investigations has been extremely successful in bringing violent criminals to justice.  When not actively working homicides, much of the unit's time is spent investigating child victim crimes.