The detectives of these divisions typically investigate crimes beyond the scope of normal squads.
The squad investigates the following types of cases: The New York City Major Case Squad does not normally investigate homicides: Those are generally conducted by precinct detective squads and borough homicide squads; the exceptions involve homicides committed by violent criminal organizations that fall under larger federal RICO investigations and prosecutions, as well as the murder of police officers.
The ultimate responsibility for any homicide case in NYC rests with the precinct detective squad concerned, but the major case squad has historically played a large and important role in the investigation of any homicide of an NYC police officer.
[citation needed] The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis was formed in 1965 and is a multi-departmental unit charged with investigating major crimes in six Missouri and four Illinois counties.
The squad brings together specially trained, and highly experienced investigators and averages an 80% clearance rate.