Criminal Investigations Division

The La Porte Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is composed of dedicated professionals whose mission is to conduct extensive investigations of criminal activity in our community.

CID Detectives

Lieutenant Lance Cook is in command of the division with the assistance of Detective Sergeant Jeff Plemons. The division consists of eight detectives who have primary responsibility for follow-up investigations and, in many cases, initial responsibility for crimes against persons and property. These can range from robbery to murder, fraud to sexual assault, and theft or burglary to child abuse. To see a listing of the detectives, please visit the CID Staff Directory.

Some of the detectives are TCOLE-licensed Law Enforcement Trainers, and as such, assist the department's Training Section in conducting classes. They regularly help with the Citizens Police Academy, Police Explorer Program, Uniformed Bicycle Patrol activities, and Firearms Training. Some detectives are also members of the department's SWAT Team and Computer Forensic Analysis.

Special Investigations Division

An appointed Sergeant supervises a squad of 5 detectives known as the Special Investigations Division. These detectives are assigned to covert operations such as narcotics, vice, and illegal gambling cases. These detectives also assist the CID and Patrol Division when needed. One of these detectives is also assigned to the HIDTA (Narcotics) Task Force.

Additional Responsibilities

The CID is also responsible for conducting forensic crime scene investigations and the handling, processing, and storage of evidence and property. The primary Crime Scene Investigator is Juan Gonzales, and the Property Room Custodian is Wendy Large. The CID and Patrol Division receive valuable support from the Victims Assistance Liaison, Shamarian Lister. To learn more, please visit the Crime Victims Assistance Office page.

Division Mission

The mission of the CID and Special Investigations Division is as varied and extensive as the longevity and experience of its personnel. While patrol officers refer most cases that are investigated by them to CID for follow-up, CID detectives may also initiate investigations. Should circumstances or department need dictate, detectives may perform patrol functions to augment the Patrol Division. The latest example of this was with Hurricane Ike when all Police Department assets were mobilized to protect the city.