The Constabulary's specialist departments support district Police Officers, investigate complex matters and provide operational capabilities which cannot be delivered by a neighbourhood team alone. They work with Local Policing while remaining accountable through the relevant force portfolio.
Major and complex investigations
Crime and Criminal Justice is the force-wide portfolio for specialist investigation, safeguarding, intelligence, criminal justice and forensic support. Major Crime Department leads the major and homicide investigation function. Other teams within the portfolio handle the specialist enquiries assigned to them.
Protecting vulnerable people
Public Protection and Safeguarding provides specialist responsibility for domestic abuse, stalking, safeguarding, offender management and multi-agency risk management. Reports enter the appropriate Contact Management or operational system before assignment to specialist staff.
Forensic and digital evidence
Forensic Services supports the examination, continuity and handling of forensic material relevant to HIOWC investigations. Evidential and case records remain in the authorised operational systems, not in public website pages.
Joint Operations and roads policing
Joint Operations is the portfolio for collaborated specialist operations and contact management. Its operational departments include Public Order Department, Dog Support Unit, Safer Roads Unit and Serious Collision Investigation Unit. Specialist deployment, powers and command remain subject to the applicable operational authorities.
Professional standards
Professional Standards Department oversees standards and complaints concerning the force. If your concern is about an HIOWC Police Officer, Police Staff member or policing service, use Thanks and complaints.