The Atascadero Police Department Investigations Unit currently has one Detective Sergeant, two Detectives, and two Special Enforcement Detectives. All the personnel in the Investigations Unit are being cross-trained so they are all able to work independently or as a team investigating crimes against property and crimes against persons.

The Community Response Officers are tasked with coordinating the Department's response to special projects or problems as identified by the Community Oriented Policing/Problem Solving (COPPS) program. For example, the COPPS program might identify a specific residence as a site of possible narcotics activity or chronic neighborhood problems such as gang activity or loud, unruly parties. These Community Response Officers work with patrol officer or detectives, members of the community, other City departments including Code Enforcement, or outside law enforcement, social services, or private agencies, will develop a coordinated response to resolve the problem. The intent is to provide a liaison between the community and the Police Department in resolving neighborhood problems and improving the quality of life in the community.

Every member of the Investigations Unit works closely with investigative personnel from other law enforcement agencies on a County, state, and federal level including other local police departments, the District Attorney's Office, Mental Health, Child and Adult Protective Services, and Rape Crisis teams.

For questions regarding the Investigations Unit and its responsibilities,

call (805)461-5051 and ask to speak with Detective Sergeant.