The Investigations unit of the Madera Police Department is comprised of five investigators and is headed by Det. Sgt. Dino Lawson. The investigators are responsible for follow up on the preliminary investigations conducted by officers responding to initial calls for service. The investigators after reading reports submitted for further investigation, will work on developing investigative leads and suspects, will conduct interviews of all involved persons, make arrests, will write and serve search warrants.  The investigators will also gather intelligence, perform surveillance and will also respond to the scene of a major crime for crime scene processing and evidence collection.

They are also responsible for developing and maintaining case files and for documenting all pertinent information. They prepare cases for prosecution and coordinate these cases with the prosecuting attorneys and must also testify in Court.

The Investigations unit is also responsible for maintaining the Department’s effort in tracking and registering convicted sex offenders that reside within city jurisdiction. There are an estimated 150 sex offenders residing within the city limits.  See the Megans Law web site.

Investigators also work closely with other law enforcement agencies and jointly work investigations involving gang activity with the Madera County Gang Task Force.

Information from the public is appreciated regarding wanted persons or tips regarding criminal behavior. Tips can be placed at 675-4240 or by contacting Crime Stoppers at 498-STOP. The Crime Stoppers web page also lists individuals wanted out of Madera and Fresno counties and information on how to submit tip information. The Department of Justice Attorney General web page has information relating to scams, identity theft and wanted persons from throughout the State. You can view registered sex offenders in your area by viewing the Megans Law web site.