Force Investigation Unit

History

In February 2022, The Force Investigation Unit began its role as a statewide unit of specially trained detectives that investigate DPS-related use of force incidents including, but not limited to, officer-involved shootings, other deadly force, retaliatory force, and in-custody deaths. In addition to their investigative duties, The FIU unit consistently seeks out and attends advanced use-of-force-related training, as well as provides use-of-force training and awareness to department personnel.

In the interest of balance and transparency to the public during critical investigations, FIU coordinates with the Public Affairs Section to produce and release critical information for the use of force incidents.  Additionally, FIU works closely with the Technology and Business Support  Unit (TBS) to create and maintain accurate annual use of force-related trends and statistics.  
 
The Force Investigation Unit personnel are divided across the three statewide LSP Regions and report through their chain of command directly to the Deputy Superintendent of the Bureau of Investigations. 

Region 1

• Sgt. Christopher Anderson – Supervisor 
• Sgt. Gustave Bethea – Supervisor
• TFC Ben Friedmann – Baton Rouge
• TFC Mike Smith – New Orleans
• Inv. Henry DeJean – New Orleans 

Region 2

• Sgt. Chris Leday – Supervisor
• Inv. Anthony Pardo – Breaux Bridge
• Inv.  Jennifer Trigueros – Houma
• Tpr. Jason Lavender – Lake Charles

Region 3

• Sgt. Angel Nugent – Supervisor
• Tpr. Darren “DJ” Ragland – Monroe
• Inv. John Kling – Alexandria
• Inv. Rod Johnson – Shreveport