Investigative & Administrative
West Covina Police Department
Investigative
The Detective Bureau is responsible for providing investigative and follow-up services associated with all major crimes. The police personnel assigned to the Detective Bureau handle specialized assignments, including automotive theft, financial crimes, burglaries, court coordination, homicide, domestic violence, victim advocacy, robbery, sex crimes, and forensics. The detectives conduct thorough follow-up investigations and prepare cases for prosecutors to ensure justice for crime victims.
After an apatrol officer takes a report in the field, it is forwarded to the detective desk for investigation. Detectives follow up on leads, interview witnesses, victims, and suspects, and build a case against those who commit crimes in our community.
From fraud and theft to kidnapping and murder, West Covina Police detectives spend many hours following up on information, pursuing leads, and solving crimes. Detectives file cases against criminal offenders and work with the district attorney’s office to ensure successful prosecution. West Covina Police Department detectives are assigned to the Detective Bureau for two to three years. At the end of their detail, detectives return to uniform and patrol the city streets, applying the knowledge they gained in the bureau to serve the community better. If you have information that will help the West Covina Police detectives solve a crime, please call (626) 939-8500.
Mobile Command Center
The Mobile Command Center (MCC) is a 2014 Lone Star outfitted with the latest technology. The MCC is equipped with Wi-Fi, a mobile tactical communication center, large viewing screens, CAD/RMS terminals, and a private, compartmentalized area where crisis negotiators can operate without interruption or distraction.
The MCC can be used in SWAT or tactical situations and can also assist traffic investigators, detectives, or officers who will be investigating a scene for an extended period. This provides investigators with a location to meet and discuss the investigation. It features the latest technology and a large, custom-made software solution that supports daily law enforcement operations and can also assist with managing large-scale emergencies. West Covina is well prepared to serve its residents and support surrounding cities in addressing challenges they face.
Forensic Identification Unit
The West Covina PD Forensic Identification Unit (FIU) conducts forensic investigations at all major crime scenes, including photography, diagramming, and evidence collection. The Forensic Identification Unit processes evidence items for DNA and latent fingerprint analysis and submits them to local and national criminal databases. The Forensic Identification Unit also provides print services for:
- Alhambra PD
- Azusa PD
- Baldwin Park PD
- Covina PD
- The City of Diamond Bar
- El Monte PD
- Glendora PD
- Monrovia PD
We also assist the DMV, the FBI, the Los Angeles County TRAP Team, and the DA’s office.
The West Covina PD Forensics Unit takes pride in its highly trained and experienced experts who help in solving crimes throughout the San Gabriel Valley.
Administrative Division
The police personnel assigned to Administration include public safety dispatchers at the Communications Center, personnel assigned to the Records Bureau, the Professional Standards Unit, the Training and Recruitment Office, and support staff for the Chief of Police.
Training
The Training and Recruitment Office is also responsible for directing ongoing training for the entire department. Officers, dispatchers, and civilian employees regularly attend training. The Training and Recruitment Office must ensure that the department remains in compliance with all California POST requirements. Employees assigned to training and recruitment also provide or arrange for orientation and training for each new employee. The training can include classroom instruction, seminars, real-time situational scenarios, virtual scenarios, tactical exercises, and/or online learning.
Recruitment
Hiring new employees for the police department is a complex process. The Training and Recruiting Office is responsible for screening applicants through a rigorous selection process. The hiring process for a police officer position includes a written test, a physical agility test, an oral interview, an extensive background investigation, psychological evaluation and testing, medical exams, and a polygraph.