Criminal Investigations Unit and "Solvability"

Criminal Investigations Unit

The Criminal Investigations Unit, or CIU, is compromised of three main divisions: Crimes Against Persons, Crimes Against Property and Special Victims. 

Detectives in the Crimes Against Persons division investigate crimes such as murder, robbery, aggravated assaults, etc.

The Crimes Against Property Detectives handle crimes such as burglary, auto theft, grand larceny, arson, etc. 

Special Victims Detectives investigate crimes such as domestic violence, rape, felony offenses involving a juvenile as a victim and/or suspect, computer related crimes and other crimes of special circumstance.

The CIU is supervised by a Captain and Lieutenant. Each squad is supervised by a Sergeant. The following numbers are provided as contact information:

Crimes Against Persons -- (540)853-5317

Crimes Against Property -- (540)853-5306

Special Victims -- (540)853-2673

Investigative Support -- (540)853-5799

Narcotics/Organized Crime -- (540)283-8999

Crime Prevention Tips:

  • Check your credit report annually
  • Do not leave valuables in your vehicle
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Place identifiable markings (like your initials) on your property
  • Record serial numbers of your valuable items, and keep that information in a safe place


"Solvability" Factors

"Solvability" factors are pieces of information that are available at the scene of a crime, or are facts that are obtained from a victim or witness during an initial investigation by the responding officer. They provide the investigator a direction in which to channel his/her efforts to successfully resolve the case; a "tool" that may assist in the investigation. Examples of "solvability" factors used by the CIU include:

  • Is there a suspect named or identified?
  • Are there any witnesses?
  • Is the property identifiable?
  • Is the suspect vehicle identifiable?
  • Is there substantial or important evidence?
  • Is the victim willing to prosecute?

Cases are evaluated based on the above questions to determine which offenses have enough information for a detective or officer to work the case. Every case is reviewed by the CIU supervisors in an effort to meet the needs of the citizens most effectively.

Follow-Up Methods

The Roanoke Police Department will respond in one of three ways to citizens who are a victim of a crime:

  1. Personal contact in all felonies that are assigned to an Officer/Detective for follow-up.
  2. Telephone contact for minor incidents that area assigned to an Officer/Detective that may be a part of a series.
  3. By letter if the incident does not meet "solvability" factors.

This by no means is intended to prevent you from contacting the Roanoke Police Department if you feel that it is necessary. If you have questions, concerns or additional information regarding your case, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are a professional organization and we are dedicated to providing the best service for all citizens who live in or visit Roanoke.