The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit was formed in November 1973. At that time four (4) employees were assigned to the multi-agency metro unit: two (2) investigators from the Sheriff's Office and two (2) from The Tuscaloosa Police Department.

The Violent Crimes Unit has exclusive jurisdiction in the county for all investigations of homicides, unexplained death, sexual offenses, suicides, kidnappings and any other violent crimes against a person.

Presently there are 10 investigators assigned to the Violent Crimes Section with two dedicated supervisors (Sergeants) and another five investigators are assigned to the Sexual Assault Section with one dedicated supervisor (Sergent). There is a clerk, victim service officer and an evidence technician assigned to the unit. The unit is staffed with members from the Tuscaloosa Sheriff's Office, Tuscaloosa Police Department, Northport Police Department and the University of Alabama Police Department. In 2023 the unit worked over 721 cases.

The Violent Crimes Unit is located at the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The Unit is commanded by Captain Jack Kennedy (TCSO) and he is assisted by Captain Marty Sellers (TPD).