History of Georgia Bureau of Investigation in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 18, 2026

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is a statewide independent law enforcement agency that provides essential investigative and forensic support to local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. Headquartered in Decatur, Georgia, the GBI operates with a mission to protect the public through professional criminal investigations, specialized forensic analysis, and the management of criminal justice information systems. Its primary functions include investigating major crimes, such as homicides and public corruption, as well as providing technical support through the Division of Forensic Sciences, which manages the state crime lab. Additionally, the GBI oversees the Georgia Crime Information Center, ensuring the integrity and accessibility of criminal history records across the state. By maintaining high standards of impartiality and expertise, the GBI serves as a critical resource for maintaining public safety and ensuring justice throughout Georgia.

March 1937: Establishment of the Georgia Department of Public Safety

In March 1937, Governor Eurith D. Rivers signed Act 220, which officially established the Georgia Department of Public Safety, creating the Georgia State Patrol and a plainclothes investigative unit known as the Division of Identification, Detection, Prevention and Investigation.

1940: Renaming of the Investigative Division

In 1940, the previously established Division of Identification, Detection, Prevention and Investigation was formally renamed the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to better reflect its role in state law enforcement.

1952: Establishment of the Division of Forensic Sciences

In 1952, the Division of Forensic Sciences (DOFS) was formally established to provide critical scientific support and comprehensive evidence analysis services to law enforcement agencies throughout the state of Georgia.

1972: Executive Reorganization Act

In 1972, Governor Jimmy Carter initiated a significant executive restructure for the state through the introduction of the Executive Reorganization Act.

1973: Founding of the Georgia Crime Information Center

In 1973, the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) was established to provide continuous technical communication networks to various state agencies, marking the beginning of their role in managing the state's information technology and data sharing.

February 28, 1974: GBI Independent Agency Establishment

On February 28, 1974, following legislative amendments, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was formally separated from the Department of Public Safety and established as an independent, cabinet-level agency.

2017: Felony Child Abuse Inquiry in Poulan

In 2017, the GBI Investigative Division conducted a felony child abuse investigation involving staff members of the Poulan Police Department, following a formal request from the Tift Judicial Circuit District Attorney.