NCJ Number
201986
Date Published
2003
Length
231 pages
Annotation
This book discusses the tasks, investigative techniques, and equipment of private investigators, as well as the management of a private detective agency.
Abstract
The first chapter provides an overview of the private investigation profession, with attention to licensing and education requirements. The second chapter begins the exploration of the investigative techniques of the private investigator, as it addresses sources of information, skip tracing (locating missing persons), and the location of assets. The categories of information sources discussed are confidential information sources; government records (local, county, State, and Federal); directories; research with a computer; and examination of a subject's trash. The section on skip tracing (locating missing persons) considers locating missing family members, locating witnesses, locating elusive and cryptic subjects, and locating income and assets. Another section of this chapter discusses the identification of business holdings. The third chapter features techniques for pretext inquiries. A "pretext" can be defined as a subterfuge, ruse, trick, or deception. Pretext inquiries involve the use of a false reason for soliciting information or for requesting permission to enter a premises. Techniques for interviews, interrogations, and the obtaining of statements are discussed in another chapter. Other chapters focus on undercover investigations (industrial and commercial); physical surveillance; binoculars, telescopes, night viewing devices, and monoculars; surveillance photography; bodyguard service; report writing and courtroom testimony; and the management of a detective agency. Appendices provide supplementary information on visual and auditory license number errors, social security number States of issue, and fraud indicators for worker's compensation. Index