Two veteran investigators with the Chester County Detectives have been promoted, according to Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan.

Hogan announced in a press release that Chester County Detective Lt. Kevin Dykes will succeed James Vito as chief detective. Vito retired at the end of 2015. Sgt. Michael McGinnis will succeed Dykes as lieutenant.

The Chester County Detectives are the investigative arm of the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.  Detectives are divided into several areas: major crimes, child abuse, drugs and organized crime, computer forensics, and crime scene forensics.

“The Chester County District Attorney’s Office is fortunate to have strong leadership for our detectives,” Hogan said in the release.  “Kevin Dykes and Mike McGinnis have proven themselves as investigators, supervisors, and team players.  They are known and respected throughout Chester County law enforcement for their skill and integrity.”

Dykes has served with the Chester County Detectives since 2001.  He has been assigned to the Major Crimes Unit, investigating homicides, violent crimes, financial crimes, and drug violations.  He was promoted to the position of lieutenant in 2012.

Prior to joining the Chester County Detectives, Dykes was a member of the Pennsylvania State Police from 1981 to 2001.  Within the Pennsylvania State Police, he rose to the rank of corporal and handled significant drug investigations.

“It is truly an honor and a privilege to be promoted to chief of the Chester County Detectives,” said Dykes in the release.  “I am grateful for this opportunity given to me by District Attorney Hogan to lead this outstanding group of individuals.  I would be remiss if I didn't also thank Chief Vito, who has been a mentor to me over the past four years.  I look forward to continuing the working relationships that have been established between the Chester County Detectives and the entire law enforcement community in Chester County and throughout the region.”

McGinnis has served with the Chester County Detectives since 2000.  As a line detective, he worked in the Major Crimes Unit, the Crime Scene Forensics Unit, and the Drugs and Organized Crime Unit.  He was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2013.  Most recently, McGinnis supervised the Major Crimes Unit.

He previously served with the West Chester Police Department from 1986 to 2000.  In West Chester, McGinnis worked in the areas of patrol, drug enforcement, and criminal investigations.

“I am grateful to District Attorney Hogan and Chief Dykes for the confidence they have shown in me,” McGinnis said in the release.  “I am honored to work with such an exceptional team of law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and office staff.”

Dykes and McGinnis will be formally sworn in at 1 p.m. on Jan. 8, in Courtroom 2 of the Justice Center before Chester County Court Judge Anthony Sarcione.