Detective Unit

The Elk River Police Department’s Detective Unit is split into two subdivisions, Adult and Juvenile, each with unique areas of focus. All detectives are trained in a wide range of specialized skills including:

• Interview and interrogation
• Evidence and collection
• Photography
• Other necessary crime scene related skills

The Elk River Police Department's Adult Detective Unit is commanded by Detective Sergeant Eric Balabon. The unit is comprised of three criminal detectives, whose responsibilities include investigating misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and felony incidents. 

The Juvenile Detective Unit is commanded by Juvenile Detective Sergeant Don Birdsall. This unit is comprised of two juvenile detectives who are responsible for investigating juvenile crimes and child welfare incidents in addition to providing police liaison resources to the schools in the Elk River School District.