When deputies use deadly force, the investigation is directed by ________ commander who will assign a ________________________ to conduct the investigation.

• A. VCD Commander; Critical Incident Team
• B. VCD Commander; Internal Affairs
• C. Sheriff; Critical Incident Team
• D. Patrol Lieutenant; Major Case Team

Answer: (A)

The central idea is that deputy-involved deadly force investigations are handled by a specialized, independent team under the division that oversees serious incident responses. The commander of the Violent Crimes Division (VCD) has the authority to direct the inquiry and appoint a dedicated Critical Incident Team for the investigation. This team is trained to handle evidence collection, witness interviews, and policy review in a way that maintains objectivity and follows established procedures, keeping the work separate from routine patrol operations. Internal Affairs is not typically the lead for this type incident, and a Patrol Lieutenant or a Major Case Team does not provide the same level of specialization and impartial oversight for deputy-involved shootings. So, the VCD Commander directing a Critical Incident Team is the proper structure.