One of the three divisions of the Vermont State Police, the Criminal Division is highly respected for its investigative abilities and specialized units. The Criminal Division strives to efficiently and effectively investigate all major criminal offenses that come to our attention. The Criminal Division works closely with the Field Force Division, Homeland Security, state and federal prosecutors, the office of the Chief Medical Examiner, other law enforcement agencies and fire departments in order to bring resolution to each case that is investigated.
The Criminal Division, commanded by Major Dan Trudeau, is made up of the Major Crime Unit and the Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI). Detectives with specialized training, technical skills and expertise work collaboratively on the most serious crimes and complex investigations.
The Major Crime Unit (MCU) is primarily responsible for investigating the most serious crimes, specifically homicides and missing person cases that are suspicious in nature. The MCU investigates officer-involved shootings and other complex investigations as needed. The Major Crime Unit also oversees drug investigations and the Executive Protection Unit, the Technology Investigation Unit and Polygraph Unit.
Bureau of Criminal Investigations
The Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI) is comprised of detectives responsible for conducting various criminal investigations. BCI detectives receive specialized training in order to conduct these investigations. BCI detectives work with the Major Crime Unit and the Field Force Division on a regular basis. BCI detectives also assist local and federal law enforcement agencies with criminal investigations. The Bureau of Criminal Investigations also oversees the Vermont Intelligence Center (VIC).
The Criminal Division is commanded by