Evansville Police Department

Organized Crime Section

The Organized Crime Section (OCS) is made up of members from the Evansville Police Department and the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office and is divided between the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force (EVCDTF) and the Street Crimes Unit (SCU). Staffing currently consists of 2 Lieutenants, 4 Sergeants, 19 Officers/Deputies, 3 Civilians, and 2 K9s.

Federal Task Force Officers

Federal Task Force Officers (TFOs) are officers/deputies who enter into cooperative agreements with Federal Law Enforcement partners. These partnerships allow the sharing of resources and combine efforts in complex investigations. TFO’s work dual roles in cooperation with our partnering Federal Agencies. These agencies include the Drug Enforcement Agency Task Force (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), and The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Task Force (ATF). Officers assigned to the various task forces investigate both state and federal crimes.

 

The Organized Crime Section currently has 1 FBI TFO, 3 DEA TFOs, and 3 ATF TFOs.

Contact Organized Crime Section

Organized Crime Section (OCS) Officers are located at various locations within the city. The hours of operation vary as investigative needs dictate.

TIP Line: (812)435-6194
Office Line: (812)436-7917
Fax Line: (812)485-3066

FAQ

What is a Criminal Street Gang?

Indiana State Statute 35-45-9-1 defines a criminal gang as a group with at least three members that specifically: (1) either: (A) promotes, sponsors, or assists in; or (B) participates in; or (2) requires as a condition of membership or continued membership; the commission of a felony or an act that would be a felony if committed by an adult or the offense of battery (IC 35-42-2-1).

What are some typical pre-gang behaviors?

Gang involvement does not happen overnight. It is a gradual process and if you are alert you will see warning signs.

- Poor progress or achievement in school
- Truancy from school
- Lack of hobbies or too much leisure time
- Frequent contact with authority figures or police
- Draws gang insignias/symbols/signs
- Problems at home
- Lives in neighborhood where gangs already exist
- Friends are gang members or dressing down or sagging and bagging in gang attire
- Begins dressing in traditional gang clothes

These items are characteristic of gang involvement. However, some people who join or associate with gangs do not dress in the traditional attire and do not exhibit conspicuous behavior to show their gang involvement. Parents must be aware of the behavior and activities of their children. Continual monitoring of behavior and positive verbal communication between parents and young people is a must for gang membership prevention.

How do you report on possible gang activity?

If the situation requires immediate attention, call 911. The best way to report drug activity is through the TIP Line 812-435-6194.

How do I report vice offenses, such as gambling or prostitution, occurring in Evansville?

If the situation requires immediate attention, call 911. The best way to report activity is through the TIP Line 812-435-6194.

How do I report on possible drug activity?

If the situation requires immediate attention, call 911. The best way to report drug activity is through the TIP Line 812-435-6194.

What information do I need when reporting on possible crimes?

Any information is useful, but the type of activities observed or suspected, the location and times of the activity, names, ages, and descriptions of the participants, and descriptions and license plates of any vehicles involved is particularly helpful. The reporter may leave their name for investigators to follow up or remain anonymous.

Does the Organize Crime Section make presentations?

The Evansville Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force and the Street Crimes Unit will conduct presentations upon request for civilian groups, businesses, and schools within Vanderburgh County. The presentations cover general information and trends related to drug activity, gang activity, and/or violent crimes activity in the Evansville area. To request a presentation, call 812-436-7917.

Organized Crime Section SGT. Contact Information

 

Narcotics: Sgt. Shellie King

Work Phone: 812-436-7921

Email: slking@evansvillepolice.com

 

Narcotics: Sgt. Zach Elfreich

Work Phone: 812-436-7918

Email: zelfreich@evansvillepolice.com

 

Street Crimes: Sgt. Crystal Thomas

Work Phone: 812-436-7926

Email: cdthomas@evansvillepolice.com