The Professional Standards Division conducts the most sensitive investigations involving public corruption and government misconduct as well as investigations for the NC Judicial Standards Commission. The division is responsible for the receipt and evaluation of reported theft and misuse of state property. In addition, the division is responsible for the internal affairs function of the NC State Bureau of Investigation and administrative staff inspections throughout the SBI.
Units that fall under the supervision of the Professional Standards Division include Special Investigations, Financial Crime Investigations, Case Records Management, and Internal Affairs.
Special Investigations
The Special Investigations Unit conducts and coordinates investigations into certain allegations of
public corruption and misconduct by government officials as well as investigations for the NC Judicial Standards Commission.
Financial Crime Investigations
The Financial Crime Investigations Unit conducts investigations involving complex white collar crimes such as embezzlement, false pretense, and corporate malfeasance as well as other financial crimes. The unit also assists other SBI Special Agents in financial crime investigations and provides support in developing financial motives for arson and homicide. In addition, the Financial Crime Investigations Unit assists local, state, and federal drug task forces to identify assets of drug traffickers, to trace the flow of illicit cash for criminal prosecution, and to assist with asset seizure and forfeiture proceedings. The unit is heavily involved in political corruption investigations when a financial motive is involved.
Case Records Management
The Case Records Management Section maintains a network repository for investigative case files and all related case information. Collected data and documents related to investigations worked by SBI Special Agents are processed and stored in the Case Records Management Systems (CRMS).
Internal Affairs
During Fiscal Year 2011-2012, the Professional Standards Division initiated five internal affairs inquiries involving internally generated complaints or allegations against Bureau employees. The investigations included allegations of unacceptable personal conduct, unprofessional conduct, and other policy violations. These previously referenced matters involved four employees of which 75% were female and 25% were male. Two of the complaints or allegations were sustained, one was placed in inactive status, and one was pending as of June 30, 2012.
Professional Standards received and documented five reports of civil litigation. These matters involved current and former employees.
Professional Standards received and documented 27 automobile accidents involving Bureau vehicles. Regarding employees involved in these accidents, 81% were male and 19% were female.
Professional Standards: Assistant Director
Erik A. Hooks