From the moment a call comes in, Clayton Police detectives step into the unknown. Each day presents new challenges with cases that require keen investigation, patience, and sometimes a personal touch to connect with those affected. They work quietly behind the scenes, piecing together facts and giving voice to those who cannot always speak for themselves. 

As National Police Week comes to a close, the Town of Clayton continues to honor the dedicated men and women who protect our community. The focus now shifts to the Criminal Investigative Unit where behind every case is a team of professionals working relentlessly to bring justice. One of these professionals is longtime team member Detective Jason Linder whose experience and dedication are integral to the work of the unit. 

Detective Linder began his career with the Clayton Police Department in 2004. He first worked as a patrol officer, but his goal was always to become a detective. His early years helped him build strong relationships in neighborhoods and learn how to connect with people who might not always be seen. 

Now, with over two decades of experience, Detective Linder works in the Criminal Investigative Unit. It handles many types of crimes including fraud, theft, home break-ins, robberies, shootings, sexual assaults, and even murder. 

“I’ve always felt drawn to working on murder cases,” said Linder. “Over time, though, I found a deeper sense of purpose in cases involving children. While those are some of the hardest to face, every case carries its own significance.” 

For each case, Detective Linder starts with the facts. He says he follows the path the evidence creates. Interviews, scene visits, and digital tools all help move the case forward. Today, phones and social media play a big role.  

“People live on their phones now. They lead us to the truth,” Linder explained. “With so much information at our fingertips, what might seem like a small detail can often be the key that unlocks a case.” 

He knows many people enjoy crime shows or listen to podcasts about investigations. But Detective Linder says the real work is very different.  

“It is not like what you see on TV. Most of the time, we are building reports, collecting records, and preparing files for court,” he said. “The process involves careful review and following up on every lead. We’re always working behind the scenes to ensure that nothing is overlooked before moving to the next step.” 

The process can take months or even years as investigators continue to piece things together. One of Linder’s proudest moments came from solving a cold case murder from 1999. It went to trial more than 15 years later.  

“I stayed in contact with the family the entire time,” he said. “They saw my face from the start until the end. I want victims and families to know that they are not forgotten.” 

In another case, he traveled to Kentucky to speak with child victims in person, believing that this kind of presence makes a lasting impact. 

“I needed them to know that I was their voice back here in Clayton,” said Detective Linder said. “When you’re with people through the hardest moments of their lives, they remember that you showed up.” 

The work of a detective also has the potential to leave an emotional mark, with some cases staying with him long after they're closed, especially those involving children or extreme violence. 

"Every big case takes a piece of you," he said. "It's a reminder that solving crimes isn't just about catching someone, but also about carrying the emotional weight that comes with seeking justice." 

Fortunately, no one works alone. The Clayton Police Department’s Criminal Investigative Unit includes nine detectives and a crime scene investigator/evidence custodian who lean on each other for support.  

“When a big case comes in, everyone is all in,” said Detective Linder. “We help each other, we cover each other’s interviews, and we stay late together. You can’t do this job well without a good team.” 

The work of a detective is not easy. It takes time, patience, and care. For Detective Linder, he says it’s not just about solving crimes but about standing by victims, helping families heal, and making sure no one is left behind. To learn more about the Clayton Police Department or its Criminal Investigative Unit, visit claytonpolice.org.