| What to Look for When You Hire A ‘Private Eye’ By John G. Brenner RN, MS Private detectives like Sam Spade and Mike Hammer make for great summer reading. They’re all about swagger, bending rules and roughing up the bad guy. So turn to them if you’re looking for a juicy page turner for the beach – but not if you’re looking to hire a private investigator. With the current slowdown in the economy, it’s getting harder to know who to trust. Businesses are searching harder for customers -- and with that, scams abound. Those seeking the services of a private investigator often becoming victims to those scams. Whether you’re a private citizens, law firm, police department, corporation or organization, you’re trying to protect your interests – to scope out suspicious, fraudulent or even illegal conduct. But too often you, yourself, become a target. So I’ve put together a “Brenner Top 10” set of guidelines to ensure your private investigator is on the up and up. Here’ s the list. Always look for a professional who: 1. Is licensed to practice, and sticks by local, state and federal regulations. The majority of states, including Connecticut, require private detectives and investigators to be licensed. This is a great way to weed out those not qualified to practice. Also check that they’re bonded and insured. 2. Belongs to an industry organization, state or federal, and follow its ethics code. In Connecticut, look for membership in the Connecticut Association of Licensed Private Investigators (CALPI). 3. Obeys the Constitution. I enjoy Clint Eastwood movies as much as the next guy, but there’s no room for “Dirty Harry” vigilante justice in our society. A true professional never seeks to manipulate the law or bend rules. 4. Documents everything. Seek a professional who never tampers with or compromises evidence, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Every cigarette and soda bottle can become a valuable clue or lead. 5. Has a reputation for honest dealings with clients. Do a little sleuthing before you hire your sleuth. A professional with a sturdy moral compass NEVER puts clients in unethical or illegal situations. Also look for prior incidences of consumer complaints, bankruptcies, domestic violence, sex offenses, or tax evasion. 6. Makes available their qualifications and education. A college degree is a must. A graduate degree is preferred, as well as prior experience within a specialty area such as forensics. A background in law enforcement, military or government is usually recommended. 7. Pursues nonviolent means to get answers. Violent detectives have been a norm in television shows since the ‘70s. And in real life, the use of tasers and guns are all too common in crime solving scenarios. A professional private eye follows strict procedure -- using violence only as a last resort, and only with cause. 8. Can write well. It’s not obvious criteria, but it makes a difference. Poor spelling and grammar will translate into sloppy reports and documentation. Properly detailed notes can make any case; improper reports can, and will, break them. 9. Has a diverse background. A range of experiences and skills brings an ability to approach your case from different and fresh angles. Look for a professional who’s well-rounded. Avoid practitioners who are rigidly bound to one narrow mindset. 10. Stays in control of any situation, whether it involves surveillance or search, and won’t be manipulated by any party. Your private sleuth won’t cut corners, or get personally involved with the parties involved. Private investigators play by the rules. Always. If you’re turning to private detectives for protection, or to right wrongs in a personal or business matter, you deserve professionalism. The image of the private eye as shady and hard-boiled, with a smoky cigar and foul mouth, should be long behind us – or at least reserved to good fiction. I know Mickey Spillane would understand. # # # John Brenner is a retired and decorated police lieutenant with the Major Crime Unit of the Bridgeport Police. He holds graduate degrees in law enforcement from the Boston University. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy and the CIA Investigator/Security Program. In addition, Mr. Brenner brings training as a registered nurse to his crime scene and forensic investigations. Contact: (203) 951-6241, website: www.johngbrenner.com , e-mail: John.Brenner@sbcglobal.net. |
