For the past 27 years, the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OOCIC) has provided a means for local, state, and federal law enforcement and prosecutors to bring down organized criminal enterprises operating across multiple jurisdictions. Several task forces exist at any given time, with new groups forming and others disbanding as needs dictate. About 15 staff members — led by Executive Director Rocky Nelson — support the task forces’ efforts, and their thoughts on OOCIC’s work are compiled here.
On how OOCIC defines ‘organized crime’
We consider organized crime to be any activity that could result in a charge of engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity. People often associate “organized crime” strictly with Mafia-type activities. We have been involved in those cases, but we also investigate such crimes as human trafficking, violent crime, drug trafficking, public corruption, white collar crime, mortgage fraud, money laundering, dog fighting, auto theft rings, fencing operations, and illegal gambling.
On the benefits of a task force approach
OOCIC task forces can provide increased jurisdictional authority; subpoena power; funding for items such as vehicles, covert facilities, or contraband useful in investigations; surveillance equipment; and administrative and clerical support. With budgets tight around the state, we can help law enforcement address criminal groups that plague multiple areas. The staff is here to assist and complement local law enforcement in the truest sense.
On assistance with audio/video needs
We can help any law enforcement agency in the state with audio or video needs, not just those associated with task forces. This can range from a 911 call that needs to have background noise reduced to multiple cruiser camera views that need to be synced and played as one video. Because of our services, most departments don’t have to try to keep someone trained and up to date in technology that they’re not using every day.
On how OOCIC staff assist with prosecutions
All task forces have a prosecutor’s office that takes the lead. If it opts out for some reason or needs assistance, we’re here to help. We can sit second chair or take over the prosecution if a prosecutor wants that. Assistant attorneys general can provide help — from the formulation of a task force to the conclusion of the case — and also can assist agencies in drafting task force proposals.
On initiating a task force proposal
Law enforcement can call us with any questions they may have. Our staff can explain what OOCIC can do to assist and also help agencies through each step of the proposal process. Interested agencies should call 614-277-1000 or visit
www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/OOCIC.
Key 2012 stats
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OOCIC task forces logged 407 indictments, 358 arrests, and 340 convictions.
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The audio/video lab worked 200 cases for 90 agencies in 45 counties.
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Task forces seized an estimated $9.6 million in drugs.
The staff and commission
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OOCIC staff members average 19 years’ experience in their field, including about eight with OOCIC.
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The commission is designed to be bipartisan and includes two sheriffs, two police chiefs, two county prosecutors, and the Attorney General. No more than four can be of the same political party.
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Attorney General Mike DeWine chairs the commission, which includes Lucas County Prosecutor Julia Bates, Portage County Prosecutor Victor Vigluicci, Marion County Sheriff Tim Bailey, Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks, Moraine Police Chief Tom Schenck, and Springboro Police Chief Jeffrey Kruithoff.
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The commission reviews proposals for new task forces, ensures that task forces maintain their intended focus, and oversees budgets and personnel.