Air Force Office of Special Investigations: The Force's Major Investigative Service
Mission and Overview
The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) is the official investigative arm of the United States Department of the Air Force, established on August 1, 1948. As a federal law enforcement agency, AFOSI reports directly to the Secretary of the Air Force and operates under the authority of the Inspector General of the Department of the Air Force.
History and Jurisdiction
Since its inception, AFOSI has served as the Air Force's primary investigative service, with a focus on felony-level offenses. The agency is responsible for conducting investigations into criminal, terrorist, and espionage threats that pose a danger to Air Force personnel, resources, and the Department of Defense. AFOSI's jurisdiction extends to all Air Force activities worldwide.
Organization and Headquarters
AFOSI operates as a field operating agency with its headquarters located at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. The agency maintains a global presence with field offices and detachments strategically positioned to support Air Force operations around the world.
Investigative Services
AFOSI provides professional investigative services to commanders of all Air Force activities. These services include:
- Criminal investigations, including financial crimes, theft, drug offenses, and fraud
- Counterterrorism investigations to identify and neutralize potential threats
- Espionage investigations to safeguard classified information and prevent unauthorized access
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