The West Virginia State Police Department is a comprehensive law enforcement agency that protects residents lives and property, maintains peace and order, and deters crime through education, prevention and proactive police services. It maintains a legal division that represents the police department in various legal matters and assists with the training and education of law enforcement personnel at the State Police Academy. The West Virginia State Police Department operates an accredited, full-service forensic laboratory that performs specialized examinations on evidence collected during criminal investigations. It provides scientific support services to several criminal justice agencies operating in the state of West Virginia. Established in 1919, the agency also provides concealed weapon permits, animal and noise violation control, and domestic violence and sexual offenses prevention services.