Detective Bureau

The role of the Detective Bureau is the investigation of crimes and the apprehension of suspected offenders. The Detective Bureau is mainly a reactive function of law enforcement, though it will take proactive approaches when the need arises, such as surveillance and installing portable alarms. The major components of investigations are case screening, follow-up investigations, and gathering criminal intelligence.

The Owatonna Police Department, with the assistance of underage operatives, conducts alcohol and tobacco compliance checks with retailers. Compliance checks provide a proactive effort to keep alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of our youngest community members. These checks are done at least two times per year and operatives are trained, photographed, and equipped with electronic listening devices so officers can monitor the conversations.