Special Investigations is composed of the Narcotics Investigation Unit (NIU), the Vermont Intelligence Center (VIC), and the Homeland Security Unit (HSU). The NIU, and under its command the Drug Diversion Unit (DDU), both are responsible for identifying, disrupting and dismantling drug traffickers and organizations involved in transporting, selling and diverting narcotics. These units consist of undercover officers working narcotic investigations, but their specialized skills and equipment also are utilized frequently in a number of other serious criminal investigations, such as homicides and human trafficking.
The mission of the Vermont Intelligence Center is to collect, analyze and disseminate intelligence information in an effort to identify, investigate and prevent criminal activity, and to protect the citizens and critical infrastructures vital to our society. The VIC is part of the National Network of Fusion Centers and works closely with all other intelligence centers across the country.
The Vermont Homeland Security Unit’s mission is to support federal, state, local and private-sector efforts to prevent, protect against and prepare for threats and acts of terrorism and criminal activity. Although counterterrorism is the primary mission, many of the HSU’s programs and initiatives support capabilities that can be applied to other threats and hazards.
All aspects in the Special Investigations Section work closely with federal, state, county and municipal law-enforcement along with intelligence agencies within Vermont, across the United States and Canada.
Questions about the Special Investigations Section can be referred to Capt. Kevin Lane by email at kevin.lane@vermont.gov.