INDIANAPOLIS — After more than twenty-five years of dedicated service to the citizens of Indiana, Lieutenant Brian P. Bunner retired from the Indiana State Police, concluding a distinguished career defined by leadership, technological innovation, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.
A native of Henry County, Bunner began his law enforcement career with the Indiana State Police in 2000, serving in the Connersville District. During his early years, he worked as a road patrol trooper before earning a promotion to district detective, where he investigated major criminal offenses throughout eastern Indiana.
Recognizing the rapidly evolving role of technology in criminal investigations, Bunner was promoted to the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit in 2009 as a Digital Forensic Examiner in Indianapolis. Over the next decade, he became one of the agency’s leading experts in digital evidence recovery and analysis, providing critical forensic support in hundreds of homicides, violent crimes, child exploitation, and complex criminal investigations.
Working closely with the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, Bunner played a significant role in investigations that extended well beyond Indiana’s borders. His expertise assisted local, state, federal, national, and international investigations. To advance the capabilities of Indiana investigators, Bunner completed extensive digital forensic training through the United States Secret Service National Computer Forensics Institute, along with numerous other advanced technology, digital forensics, and investigative programs.
In 2017, Bunner was promoted to First Sergeant to supervise the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit statewide, overseeing personnel, training, and the continued expansion of digital forensic services.
Following his promotion to Lieutenant in 2020, Bunner was appointed Commander of the Indiana State Police Technology Section, where he oversaw the agency’s field technology operations, digital forensics, and specialized investigative resources, including the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigations. In 2022, he was selected to attend the prestigious 10-week FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. In early 2023, Bunner was chosen to lead the Digital Forensics Unit with the mission of achieving ANAB ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and expanding it to a full section, moving it under the Forensic Services Division.
Under Bunner’s leadership, the ISP Digital Forensics program completed the rigorous, internationally recognized accreditation process, becoming the first accredited digital forensic program in the State of Indiana. This historic achievement established a new benchmark for forensic quality, scientific integrity, and operational excellence, positioning the Indiana State Police as a leader in digital forensic laboratory standards.
Throughout his career, Bunner championed technological innovation, built lasting partnerships across all levels of government, and mentored the next generation of digital forensic professionals. His leadership ensured digital evidence met the highest scientific and legal standards while helping investigators solve complex cases and bring justice to victims and their families.
As he concludes his law enforcement career, Bunner reflects with gratitude for the opportunity to have served the citizens of Indiana alongside dedicated professionals throughout the Indiana State Police and its many law enforcement partners.
While retiring from public service, Bunner will continue supporting the law enforcement community through a second career in the private sector, helping agencies leverage emerging technologies to enhance investigations, improve operational effectiveness, and better serve the public.
The Indiana State Police extends its sincere appreciation to Lieutenant Brian Bunner for his outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to the citizens of Indiana and wishes him and his family continued success and happiness in retirement.
