Detective Bureau

The Ann Arbor Police Department detective section investigates criminal activity reported in the city of Ann Arbor. Detectives' responsibilities typically begin after the patrol section's initial response and report. The detectives handle any necessary follow up needed to ensure a complete investigation is presented to the Washtenaw County prosecutor for warrant authorization and later court proceedings.

Lieutenant John Dunlap, jdunlap@a2gov.org, is the commander of the detective section.

Detective Bureau

The Detective Section is staffed by approximately 14 detectives, many of whom are assigned to one of three investigative units: the Special Victims Unit, Crimes Against Persons, or Property Crimes. Detectives investigate a broad range of offenses, including assault and battery, larceny and fraud, as well as home invasion, robbery, and homicide. Several detectives have specialized training and expertise in areas such as crime scene processing, digital forensics, fraud investigations, and domestic violence cases.

Sergeants Christ Garrett, cgarrett@a2gov.org, and Sergeant Dawn Murphy, dmurphy@a2gov.org, directly supervise the detectives assigned to these units.

Special Victims Unit

The Ann Arbor Police Department's Special Victim's Unit (SVU) is responsible for investigation of sexual assault and intimate partner violence (such as domestic assault, stalking, sexual abuse, trafficking, etc.). SVU detectives receive extensive training and they maintain a trauma-informed and survivor-centered approach which includes:

Prioritizing the safety, privacy, and well-being of the survivor.
Acknowledging and respecting victims' input into the criminal justice system
Assisting with referrals to reduce barriers in services like counseling, requesting personal protection orders, receiving medical care, and working with the local prosecuting attorney.

Those assigned to the SVU are aware that survivors have endured emotional and physical trauma, which may be expressed differently by each survivor. SVU detectives maintain close relationships with the SafeHouse Center and the University of Michigan SAPAC (Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Coalition).

The AAPD SVU is proactive in their effort to prevent the escalation of violence in the home, through education and early intervention.

Sergeant Dawn Murphy, dmurphy@a2gov.org, directly supervises the SVU detectives.

LAWNET

The Livingston and Washtenaw Narcotics Enforcement Team (LAWNET) is a regional drug enforcement task force with participation from member law enforcement agencies in Washtenaw and Livingston counties as well as the Michigan State Police. The AAPD is a participating agency. LAWNET can be reached at 734.994.8881.