I have heard questions as to why the TBI was called in to investigate the recent tragedy when a citizen died due to an altercation with the Jackson Police Department.

One of the primary functions of the Bureau is to assist other agencies.

In an officer-involved death investigation, the TBI is usually called in by the District Attorney General to investigate the case. This has been the standard operating procedure for many years.

The modern TBI was created in 1980 to act as an independent agency and to alleviate concerns about political interference in law enforcement investigations. The selection of the TBI Director is a bi-partisan effort, and it takes the Governor plus two-thirds of the legislature to fire the Director of the TBI.

The same statute that created the TBI made their investigations confidential. It is against the law for TBI agents to share information about their cases. Agents make a report to the Attorney General and, of course, share whatever is necessary with other officers helping with the investigation. The Attorney General will release the case results when it is the right time to do so.

Criminal investigations are challenging, and I can’t remember one that was perfect. An investigator can’t create more evidence or extra witnesses. You work with what the case gives you.

The objective is to get it done right, not get it done quickly.

The TBI will investigate, the Jackson Police Department will cooperate, and the District Attorney will make the appropriate decisions based on the evidence.

Jim Leach’s book “You Can Tell ME, Effective Interviewing Made Simple,” is available at “booksbyleach.com” and Amazon.com.