The Investigations & Special Operations Department is a crucial part of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It covers a wide range of responsibilities and is led by Director Wayne McKinney, Chief of Special Operations Jeff Johnson, and Chief of Investigations Thomas Cotchaleovitch.

The department includes several specialized units, such as SWAT, Narcotics & Special Operations Division, Emergency Preparedness Unit, Negotiations, Robbery Homicide Unit, Dive Team, Honor Guard, and Fugitive/Sex Offender Unit. Each unit is dedicated to handling diverse aspects of law enforcement, from high-risk situations to investigative work.