The Felony Screening Unit evaluates the facts and evidence of an investigation and determines whether felony charges are appropriate.
Criminal cases begin with a police investigation. Police have the discretion to authorize misdemeanor charges, but prosecutors must approve felony charges. When police believe they have sufficient evidence, they contact an on-call prosecutor.
Unit prosecutors are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to respond to officers, detectives, and investigators, authorize charges when they conclude an investigation, and provide guidance during pending investigations.
In 2023, the unit screened, 2,967 investigations for felony charges. Also in 2023, the Felony Screening Unit upgraded from a pager system to a telephonic and email system.
Prosecutors must ensure that probable cause exists before authorizing an offense and determining appropriate charges. The prosecutor may suggest additional investigative steps be taken to build a stronger case. On more complex screenings, the prosecutor may go to the police station to review reports and evidence.
