The District Attorney's investigative authority is the broadest of all local law enforcement agencies. The investigative functions of the District Attorney extend from the traditional support of prosecuting attorneys in hearings and trials to complex and specialized investigations not routinely handled by the detectives in traditional sheriff's and police agencies. The District Attorney's Bureau of Investigations' primary role is to provide prosecutorial support to its Deputy District Attorneys. In addition to these duties, the Bureau of Investigations oversees officer-involved shooting investigations, completes criminal investigations, assists in grand jury investigations, and conducts public integrity investigations.

The District Attorney has a staff of sworn peace officers and civilian personnel who perform a wide variety of tasks. The monumental task of providing trial support to "the people’s" prosecutors falls largely on the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation. Although all cases merit investigative support, staffing levels permit only a few individual cases (or in some cases particular programs augmented by grant funding) to receive extensive investigative attention based in large measure on the case’s size, potential impact or sensitivity. Investigations are conducted utilizing a wide range of techniques and resources ranging from traditional detective work to undercover operations and the utilization of specialized weapons and modern electronic equipment.

• Bureau of Investigation Policy Manual (PDF)

Mission Statement

The mission of the Bureau of Investigation is to support the prosecutorial efforts of the District Attorney's Office and to promote cooperation between the District Attorney's Office and all local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

Investigative Services

Visit our Investigation Services page to learn about the following:

• Automotive Insurance Fraud
• Background Investigations
• Child Abduction
• Consumer Fraud
• Digital Imaging
• Dignitary Protection
• Elections Code
• Environmental Crimes
• Gang Prosecutions
• Grand Jury Assistance
• Health Care Insurance Fraud
• In-Home Supportive Services Fraud (IHSS)
• Internal Affairs
• Local Law Enforcement Assistance
• Officer Involved Shooting Investigation and Review
• Prison Crimes
• Public Assistance Fraud
• Public Corruption
• Real Estate Fraud
• Violent Crimes and Career Criminals
• Workers Compensation Fraud

Subpoena Services

Subpoena Service is a function done each day by civilian investigative assistants, assigned to the Locate Unit. The Locate Unit receives special training in searching for and locating witnesses in law enforcement databases. These witnesses are needed for the many cases being prosecuted in the Kern County Superior Courts each day. In addition, The Locate Unit is responsible for serving subpoenas issued by the Grand Jury and serving motions on behalf of the District Attorney’s Office.

Notification to witnesses who may not have a phone or have moved since the initial case occurred are also made by the Locate Unit.

If you have questions about a subpoena you received please call 661-868-2062.

Feedback

Complaints

Every citizen has the right to make a complaint against any employee of the Kern County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation.

• Citizen Complaint Process (PDF)
• Personnel Complaint Form (PDF)
• Personnel Complaint Form - Spanish (PDF)

Kudos

Do you think one of our employees did an especially good job? If so, please let us know by filling out the form linked below.

• Personnel Commendation Form (PDF)

How to Submit Completed Forms

After printing and signing the completed form, either:

• Scan it and email it to investigation@kernda.org; or
• Mail it or deliver it to our office.