Investigator Spotlight: An Expert Q&A Series with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office

An investigative team explains how Penlink streamlines data analysis, saving time and energy, helps identify connections, and presents information clearly and accessiblely.

“Having the right tools and expertise to analyze digital evidence can turn a solid case into a strong one.” —Kevin Jaworski and Jimmy York, Indian River County Sherriff’s Office

In this edition of our monthly Expert Q&A series, we are excited to feature Sergeant Kevin Jaworski and Detective Jimmy York from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. They discuss the growing importance of digital evidence and reflect on how technology has transformed modern investigative methods. By leveraging tools like Penlink, they have improved their team’s efficiency, handling complex cases with greater speed and precision.

Their perspective on developing a strong succession plan, including mentoring newer investigators and ensuring they use both technical knowledge and classic investigative approaches, can help their team adapt to the evolving landscape and meet the increasing demands of today’s investigations while maintaining high standards of integrity.

Q: How has the investigative process changed over the last three to five years?

A: Over the past three to five years, the investigative process has evolved due to significant technological advancements. Cybercrime, online predators, and livestreamed offenses are now prevalent, requiring new approaches and tools. One of the biggest changes is the use of artificial intelligence to assist in investigations, speeding up tasks like data analysis and pattern recognition, which allows professionals to focus more on the critical aspects of a case.

Open-source intelligence (OSINT) has also become vital, giving investigators access to publicly available information that can reveal key insights. Additionally, automated tools now handle time-consuming tasks such as neighborhood canvassing, offender checks, and emergency management, streamlining workflows and reducing response times.

These innovations enable investigators to act more swiftly and efficiently, transforming the way they collect and analyze information and ultimately leading to better outcomes in today’s investigations.

Q: What impact does digital evidence have on clearing cases?

A: Digital evidence plays a crucial role in clearing cases today, as nearly every investigation involves some form of it—whether from cell phones, computers, or financial records. The ability to gather, analyze, and secure this type of evidence has become essential for ensuring successful prosecutions. Properly managed digital evidence can strengthen cases, offering more concrete, traceable information to support investigations.

With the right tools and expertise, agencies can turn a solid case into an irrefutable one. For instance, historical data from mobile devices or financial transactions can establish patterns or confirm alibis, and digital communication records, like social media conversations, can tie suspects to a crime. The need to efficiently handle this data has led to the widespread adoption of specialized tools, streamlining the process and ensuring evidence is preserved and usable in court.

Q: Research shows that investigators believe digital evidence is more important than DNA evidence. How would you compare them?

A:  In today’s investigations, digital evidence is often as crucial as DNA. While DNA is reliable for identifying individuals, it can take time and offer limited context. Digital evidence, on the other hand, provides real-time data, behavioral insights, and connections between suspects. It reveals a broader picture, from locations to communications, and is more accessible due to the digital trails people leave. While both forms of evidence are important, digital evidence has become indispensable in modern cases, offering key context and speed in investigations.

Q: How has Penlink made your team more efficient?

A: Penlink has been instrumental in increasing our team’s efficiency across various investigations this year, including homicides, statewide property crimes, racketeering, ICAC cases, and financial crimes. By streamlining data analysis, it has saved us significant time and effort, allowing us to focus more on critical investigative tasks. One of Penlink’s key benefits is its ability to quickly identify connections between data points, which is essential in solving complex cases.

Additionally, the software presents data in a clear and accessible format, making it easier for teams to interpret and act on the information. This not only speeds up case resolutions but also helps prevent burnout by reducing the manual workload associated with data analysis.

Q: What is your favorite Penlink tip or trick?

A: Our favorite Penlink tip is filtering out unnecessary data. Applying filters is a simple but effective way to focus on the most relevant information without being overwhelmed by excessive or irrelevant details. By homing in on specific data points, we can quickly identify patterns and insights that matter, which saves time and keeps the investigation on track. It’s a great way to ensure that only the most actionable data is being considered at any given moment.

Q: How are the expectations for investigations evolving, and how are you preparing for those changes?

A: As technology continues to evolve, expectations for investigations are shifting rapidly. Investigators must now stay up to date with digital trends while maintaining time-tested investigative techniques. The key to success is balancing modern technology with traditional skills, such as instinctive interviewing and critical thinking. Preparing for these changes involves developing strong succession plans and mentoring newer investigators, ensuring they acquire both the technical know-how and classic investigative approaches. By doing so, teams can effectively adapt to the evolving landscape while maintaining investigative integrity, ultimately positioning the agency for long-term success in a fast-changing world.

Thank you to the Indian River County Sherriff’s Office, and especially to Kevin Jaworski and Jimmy York for their willingness to share their experiences and opinions—as well as to their whole agency’s commitment to keeping their community safe. If you would like to take part in our Q&A series, please reach out to [email protected]. To learn more about Penlink, please visit www.penlink.com.