The Differences Between CID and Military Police (MP) on Active Duty

When serving in the military, understanding the roles of various law enforcement units is essential. In this article, we explore the distinctions between Criminal Investigation Department (CID) detectives and Military Police (MP) members, focusing on their duties, roles, and the context in which they operate.

Introduction to CID and Military Police (MP)

In the military, law enforcement involves specialized units designed to maintain order and investigate criminal activities. This article delves into the differences between Criminal Investigation Departments (CID) and Military Police (MP) units, both of which play crucial roles in ensuring the safety and disciplinary integrity of military personnel.

Roles and Responsibilities

While both CID and military police carry warrant cards and function within the forces, their roles and responsibilities differ significantly. Military Police, consisting of members of Parliament and service-based officers, primarily handle routine law enforcement tasks and battlefield duties. On the other hand, CID focuses on felony investigations, a task that requires specialized skills and resources.

MP (Military Police) Division

Army and Marine Corps MPs are responsible for enforcing military law and performing routine law enforcement tasks. These duties include patrolling bases, directing traffic, and ensuring general order. They are typically involved in on-the-ground, everyday enforcement activities related to routine infractions and minor legal issues.

CID (Criminal Investigation Department) Division

CID is a civilian police unit assigned to localized operational command units. Its primary function is to investigate serious criminal offenses, including but not limited to felony investigations, high-value theft, drug offenses, and minor sexual assault cases. CID detectives focus on in-depth investigations that require specialized knowledge and resources, which are often lacking in military-based law enforcement units.

Organizational Structures and Relationships

The organizational structures of CID and Military Police units in different branches of the military can vary. For example, the UK Royal Military Police (RMP), Royal Navy Provosts, and Royal Air Force (RAF) Police all have distinct roles within their respective forces.

UK Royal Military Police (RMP)

UK RMP conduct the day-to-day law enforcement and traffic direction within military bases. They are secondary to the primary function of enforcing military law. When dealing with serious crimes, the RMP often hands over cases to civilian CID units due to a lack of specialized skills and resources. RMP has a Serious Investigation Branch (SIB) that handles the investigation of serious offenses, and they also provide close protection for senior military staff.

Local Discipline and Regimental Police (RP)

Regimental Police (RP) have oversight by a Provost Sergeant, who oversees local discipline and performs duties akin to those of MPs. RPCs work independently from the RMP and maintain their own regimental cap badges, indicating their unique role within the unit.

Conclusion

While both CID and Military Police (MP) units are essential in maintaining law and order within the military, their roles and responsibilities differ. Military Police handle routine law enforcement and battlefield duties, whereas CID detectives focus on felony investigations requiring specialized skills and resources. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone serving in the military or involved in military law enforcement operations.

Key Takeaways:

CID and Military Police (MP) play distinct roles within the military. Military Police handle routine law enforcement and battlefield duties. CID focuses on felony investigations and serious offenses.

By familiarizing oneself with these differences, military personnel and law enforcement professionals can better understand and navigate the complexities of maintaining order within the military framework.