The Investigative Services Division (ISD) is responsible for fulfilling the Nebraska State Patrol’s statutory duties related to criminal investigation, alcohol and tobacco enforcement, and specialized investigative support across the State of Nebraska. The Division’s history dates back to the creation of the Nebraska State Bureau of Criminal Identification in 1941—the first such state bureau established in the United States—and the formation of the Division of Investigation in 1944. From the beginning, investigators assisted law enforcement agencies statewide in the investigation of major crimes and in the apprehension of offenders.

In the 1950s, in addition to their highway safety duties, uniformed troopers were assigned investigative responsibilities, and by the 1960s, the Nebraska State Patrol advanced this commitment by assigning full‑time investigators to a newly formed Criminal Division. These investigators were available to assist local police and sheriff departments with investigating crimes ranging from burglaries to homicides. In 1967, the Legislature created the Drug Control Division, establishing specialized statewide drug enforcement capabilities that have continued to expand significantly over time.

Since 1986, the Nebraska State Patrol has served as the primary enforcement agency for the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. ISD conducts background checks for liquor license applicants, investigates complaints, and performs inspections to ensure compliance with Nebraska’s alcohol and tobacco laws.

Today, ISD is comprised of approximately 84 sworn investigators and 6 non‑sworn support personnel. These individuals are assigned to divisions including the Criminal Unit, Drug Unit, Alcohol/Tobacco Enforcement Unit, and Special Investigations Unit —covering cold case investigations, critical incidents, and additional specialized services. Troopers selected for investigative roles first gain essential field experience through the Uniformed Patrol or Carrier Enforcement Divisions before transitioning to specialized investigative assignments. Investigators are stationed strategically throughout Nebraska to ensure rapid and effective response to emergencies and investigative requests.

ISD investigators employ advanced technology and evidence‑based investigative tools, including statewide polygraph resources and rapidly evolving forensic and digital investigative capabilities. Continuous improvement, modernization, and integration of new investigative technologies remain central to the Division’s long‑term vision.

The Investigative Services Division’s guiding vision—“Communities First. Children Always. Protection Through Partnership.”—reflects Nebraska values and aligns with the broader mission of the Nebraska State Patrol. Its three pillars—Diligent Investigation, Strategic Partnership, and Community Trust—provide a framework for consistent, accountable, and community‑focused service across all investigative disciplines.