Portland Police Department – Detective Bureau – Portland, ME

Detective Bureau Overview

The Detective Bureau is the investigative branch of the Portland Police Department, located within the department’s headquarters at 109 Middle Street. This specialized division is responsible for conducting follow-up investigations on felonies and complex crimes that require resources beyond the scope of the Patrol Division. The bureau is staffed by sworn officers and detectives who work tirelessly to solve crimes, gather forensic evidence, and prepare cases for prosecution. Their work is critical to ensuring justice for victims of serious offenses in the Portland area. The unit operates with a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism, handling sensitive cases ranging from financial fraud to violent crimes.

Investigative Units and Services

The bureau is organized into several specialized units to address specific types of criminal activity efficiently.

• Major Crimes Unit: Investigates homicides, suspicious deaths, robberies, and aggravated assaults.
• Special Victims Unit: Handles sensitive cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and crimes against children or the elderly.
• Forensic Services: Crime Scene Technicians (CSTs) are responsible for the collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence found at crime scenes.
• Financial Crimes: Investigates fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and forgery.

Access and Contact

Unlike the general patrol desk, the Detective Bureau is not a walk-in service for general reporting. Access is typically by appointment or referral from a patrol officer.

• Appointments: Individuals needing to speak with a detective regarding an ongoing case should contact the department to schedule an appointment.
• Security: Visitors must pass through security screening at the Middle Street entrance. Valid ID is required, and all bags are subject to search.