Joseph Patrick Kenda, born on November 14, 1946, in Herminie, Pennsylvania, is a retired detective lieutenant from the Colorado Springs Police Department. Over a distinguished 23-year career, he investigated 387 homicide cases, solving 356 of them, which equates to an impressive 92% closure rate. Following his retirement, Kenda transitioned into television, becoming the star of Investigation Discovery’s “Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda.” As of 2025, Joe Kenda Net Worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $4 million, accumulated through his law enforcement career, television appearances, book royalties, and consulting roles.
Early Life and Education
Kenda was born to William and Virginia Kenda. His paternal grandparents immigrated to the United States from Čezsoča, Slovenia, in 1913. His father served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Army during World War II and later managed a trucking business, while his mother hailed from Colorado Springs. Kenda graduated from Greensburg Central Catholic High School in 1964. He pursued higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He furthered his studies with a master’s degree in international relations from Ohio State University in 1970.
Law Enforcement Career

In 1973, Kenda joined the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD). By 1977, he was promoted to detective and assigned to the burglary division. His exceptional investigative skills soon led him to the homicide unit, where he made a significant impact. Throughout his tenure, Kenda solved numerous high-profile cases, earning a reputation for his keen intuition and ability to discern when individuals were being untruthful. He retired from the CSPD in 1996 after a distinguished career.
Transition to Television
After retirement, Kenda was approached by television producer Patrick Bryant in 2008 to discuss creating a series based on his experiences. This collaboration led to the launch of “Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda” in September 2011 on the Investigation Discovery network. The show featured Kenda recounting his most memorable cases, with reenactments filmed in Knoxville, Tennessee. The series became a hit, running for nine seasons and concluding with its finale, “The End,” on January 29, 2020.
Literary Pursuits
Beyond television, Kenda ventured into writing, authoring several books that delve into his experiences and cases. His debut novel, “All Is Not Forgiven,” was released on July 25, 2023, offering a fictionalized account of a rookie detective’s investigation in 1975. Other notable works include “I Will Find You: Solving Killer Cases from My Life Fighting Crime” and “Killer Triggers,” where he provides insights into the motivations behind violent crimes and his investigative processes.
Personal Life
Kenda married his high school sweetheart, Mary Kathleen “Kathy” Mohler, on December 26, 1967. The couple has two children, Dan and Kris. After his retirement, Kenda and his wife relocated to the Tidewater region of Virginia, where they currently reside. He has often spoken about the emotional toll his career took on him and the importance of family support throughout his journey.
Joe Kenda Net Worth and Financial Ventures
As of 2025, estimates of Joe Kenda net worth vary, ranging from $700,000 to $4 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his extensive career in law enforcement, his successful television series, book sales, and consulting roles on unresolved criminal cases. His transition from detective work to media and literature has significantly contributed to his financial standing.
Conclusion
Joe Kenda’s journey from a dedicated homicide detective to a celebrated television personality and author is a testament to his commitment to justice and storytelling. His ability to convey the complexities of criminal investigations has resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying his legacy in both law enforcement and entertainment.
FAQs
What is Joe Kenda net worth?
As of 2025, Joe Kenda net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $4 million, accumulated through his careers in law enforcement, television, writing, and consulting.
How many homicide cases did Joe Kenda solve?
During his tenure with the Colorado Springs Police Department, Kenda solved 356 out of 387 homicide cases, achieving a 92% closure rate.
Is Joe Kenda still active in television?
After concluding “Homicide Hunter” in 2020, Kenda began hosting “American Detective with Lt. Joe Kenda” in January 2021, where he discusses notable cases from other detectives across the United States.
Has Joe Kenda written any books?
Yes, Kenda has authored several books, including “I Will Find You: Solving Killer Cases from My Life Fighting Crime,” “Killer Triggers,” and his debut novel, “All Is Not Forgiven,” released in 2023.
Where does Joe Kenda currently reside?
Joe Kenda and his wife, Kathy, reside in the Tidewater region of Virginia, enjoying a quieter life after his retirement from law enforcement and television.
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