The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is responsible for the covert investigation of narcotics, Internet Crimes Against Children, vice offenses and the collection, analysis and dissemination of criminal intelligence. They are also used in any investigation which requires the use of an undercover officer. Those assigned within the unit have specialized expertise in dealing with certain crimes.
Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force
The goal of the Franklin County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is to aggressively investigate cases involving the online exploitation of children and child pornography.
HOPE Task Force
Heroin Overdose Prevention & Education (HOPE) Task Force
The HOPE Task Force tackles the opiate overdose epidemic with a comprehensive approach that includes enforcement, education, and prevention. We recognize that addiction and overdose deaths are community challenges that require collective solutions.
Established in 2015, the Heroin Overdose Prevention & Education Task Force was formed as an evolution of the Franklin County Drug Task Force within the Special Investigations Unit. Seasoned narcotics and homicide detectives treat opiate overdose scenes as potential crime scenes, investigating the origins of the supply that contributed to the overdose.
Furthermore, the HOPE Task Force partners with treatment providers to link individuals with substance use disorders to long-term care. Detectives are supported by the expertise and collaboration of local treatment providers, focusing on assisting individuals facing addiction rather than resorting to incarceration.
Prevention and education is key to our long term plan and HOPE works closely with the already established and nationally recognized Operation Street Smart to provide awareness of the growing problem.
For more information, contact the Franklin County HOPE Task Force at 614-525-HOPE (4673).
COVERT Task Force
COVERT (Central Ohio Violence Eradication Response Team) is dedicated to reducing firearm and violent crime in Franklin County, Ohio. Through a collaborative and multifaceted approach, we strive to safeguard the community by implementing evidence-based strategies that combine law enforcement efforts, community engagement, prevention, education, and access to vital resources for at-risk youth and young adults. Our mission is to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents, fostering a sense of trust, unity, and empowerment within the community. COVERT is committed to effectively addressing violent crime, disrupting criminal networks, and promoting a holistic approach to violence reduction.
STING Task Force
The Central Ohio Specialized Tactics & Investigative Narcotics Group (STING) is dedicated to diligently pursuing individuals plaguing Franklin County with illegal and illicit controlled substances.
Since its inception, investigators with STING have worked tirelessly with federal, state, and local partners to hold drug traffickers and individuals possessing drugs within Franklin County accountable for their criminal activity.
STING is also partnered with other Franklin County Sheriff's Office initiatives to provide alternative measures to divert individuals with substance use disorders toward treatment and away from incarceration. This strategy is believe to not only hold those accountable for their criminal activity, but also provide alternative methods of intervention to sustain success.
STING uses various methods of investigation, including undercover operations, to infiltrate, disrupt, and dismantle international and domestic Drug Trafficking Organizations operating within and affecting the citizens of Franklin County, Ohio.