Author name: WIN

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VIP Protection: How Bodyguards Secure High-Profile Clients Without Disruption

In a world where public visibility often brings unwanted attention, high-profile individuals, such as celebrities, executives, political figures, and athletes, require more than just a publicist or a manager to navigate their daily lives. They need personal protection that is not only effective but also discreet. That’s where VIP bodyguard services come in. These highly trained professionals specialize in delivering safety and peace of mind without interfering with the client’s lifestyle, image, or personal space. But how exactly do bodyguards manage to provide top-tier security without disruption? It all comes down to preparation, professionalism, and precision. 1. Planning Every Detail in Advance The key to seamless VIP protection is extensive planning. Bodyguards start by assessing every element of the client’s schedule, including travel routes, venues, accommodations, and public appearances. They perform risk assessments and identify any vulnerabilities before the client even leaves their home. Security teams will often visit locations in advance, map out exit routes, evaluate crowd dynamics, and coordinate with local law enforcement or venue staff. By preparing for every possible scenario, they’re able to reduce risk and respond to any potential threats quickly and discreetly. 2. Blending Into the Background Unlike the stereotypical bodyguards portrayed in movies, real VIP protection agents are trained to blend in, not stand out. They dress appropriately for the occasion, whether it’s a red-carpet event, a boardroom meeting, or a casual outing, and operate in a way that respects the client’s privacy and public image. This low-profile presence is particularly important for clients who want to maintain a sense of normalcy and avoid drawing unnecessary attention. The best bodyguards are highly observant, responsive, and capable without being intrusive. 3. Providing a Layered Security Approach VIP bodyguard services go beyond physical presence. They often work in teams that include drivers, advance scouts, and surveillance experts, all working together to create multiple layers of protection. This allows bodyguards to respond to a range of threats, from an overly enthusiastic fan to a potential physical danger, without escalating the situation unnecessarily. In many cases, the client and the public won’t even realize an intervention occurred, which is the hallmark of well-executed personal protection. 4. Building Trust and Communication A successful VIP protection relationship is built on trust and communication. Bodyguards work closely with their clients to understand their preferences, boundaries, and routines. They’re not just there to provide security, they’re there to provide peace of mind, allowing the client to focus on their career, events, or personal life without worry. VIP bodyguard services are about more than muscle, they’re about intelligence, planning, and professionalism. By operating discreetly and strategically, bodyguards ensure that high-profile clients stay safe without disrupting their lives or drawing unwanted attention. In a world where security threats are real and reputations matter, seamless protection is not just a service, it’s a necessity. 5. Extending Protection to the Home Environment VIP protection doesn’t end when the client walks through their front door. Many high-profile individuals have homes equipped with high-end amenities that need just as much protection as the individuals themselves. From smart home systems and luxury vehicles to valuable outdoor features like TVs, entertainment systems, and patio technology, bodyguards often work closely with residential security teams to ensure the property is safe and secure at all times. Outdoor electronics, in particular, can be attractive targets for theft or vandalism. A comprehensive security approach includes regular perimeter checks, monitoring surveillance systems, and ensuring that access points, such as gates, garages, and outdoor areas, are properly secured. For clients who frequently host guests or public events at home, having bodyguards present adds an extra layer of reassurance that both people and property are well-protected.

Two bodyguards protecting woman and her daughter while traveling
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Why Bodyguard Services Are Essential for International Travel

International travel can be an exciting and enriching experience, offering opportunities to explore new cultures, conduct global business, or unwind in faraway destinations. However, alongside the thrill of travel comes the reality of increased risks, especially for high-profile individuals, executives, celebrities, and even pilots who may travel frequently for work. In unfamiliar or high-risk environments, having professional bodyguard services in place is not just a luxury, it’s a vital step toward ensuring safety and peace of mind. Understanding the Risks of International Travel Traveling abroad often exposes individuals to a different set of threats than they might encounter at home. These can include petty crimes like theft and pickpocketing, as well as more severe dangers such as political instability, targeted attacks, or kidnapping. Without local knowledge, language fluency, or awareness of specific regional risks, travelers are naturally more vulnerable. This risk increases significantly for high-net-worth individuals, public figures, or those traveling with sensitive information or expensive assets. Even a well-planned trip can go wrong without proper security measures. How Bodyguard Services Enhance International Safety Hiring a bodyguard, or a team of close protection specialists, can make all the difference. These trained professionals provide comprehensive security solutions tailored to the unique needs of each traveler and destination. Reassurance for You and Your Loved Ones Whether you’re traveling for business, diplomacy, a high-profile event, or leisure, bodyguard services provide security that allows you to focus on your purpose. For frequent travelers, especially those in high-risk professions like executives or pilots, this added layer of protection is invaluable. In a world filled with unpredictability, bodyguard services are a smart investment in personal security for international travelers. By identifying risks before they become problems and acting swiftly in emergencies, professional protection ensures that your global adventures are both safe and successful.

Private investigator reviewing notes with a lawyer
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Top Reasons Lawyers Partner with Private Investigators

When it comes to building a strong legal case, information is everything. Whether in criminal defense, civil litigation, family law, or corporate disputes, attorneys often rely on accurate, timely, and thoroughly vetted evidence to support their clients. That’s where private investigators (PIs) come in. Far beyond the dramatized detectives we see on TV, real-world private investigators are skilled professionals who play a vital role in the legal system. For many attorneys, partnering with a trusted PI isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Here are the top reasons lawyers turn to private investigators to support their legal work. 1. Uncovering Hard-to-Find Evidence Private investigators are trained in surveillance, research, and discreet information gathering. They know how to locate and document details that might be missed in traditional legal discovery. Whether it’s tracking down a missing witness, verifying an alibi, or digging into financial records, PIs provide attorneys with hard-to-find information that can make or break a case. In cases involving suspected fraud, hidden assets, or infidelity, a PI can gather evidence legally and professionally—giving lawyers the tools they need to present a compelling argument in court. 2. Conducting Background Checks When attorneys need to verify the credibility of witnesses, jurors, or even opposing parties, they often turn to private investigators for detailed background checks. PIs can uncover criminal histories, employment records, social media activity, and more. This information helps lawyers prepare cross-examinations, evaluate threats to their case, and identify any potential red flags before they become legal issues. 3. Surveillance and Documentation In personal injury claims, custody battles, or insurance fraud cases, surveillance is often key to uncovering the truth. Private investigators use professional-grade equipment and tactics to monitor subjects discreetly and lawfully. The documentation they provide—including photos, videos, and written reports—can serve as powerful evidence in the courtroom. For example, in a custody dispute, a PI may observe a parent violating a court order or engaging in risky behavior, helping lawyers present undeniable proof to the judge. 4. Locating Witnesses and Defendants Sometimes people don’t want to be found—especially if they’re involved in legal proceedings. Whether it’s a witness who skipped town or a defendant avoiding a subpoena, lawyers often rely on private investigators for skip tracing services. PIs use databases, interviews, and investigative techniques to locate individuals who are difficult to track down. 5. Saving Time and Resources Lawyers are busy professionals juggling multiple cases. By outsourcing investigative work to a private investigator, attorneys can focus on legal strategy while the PI gathers facts, performs research, and handles fieldwork. This collaboration not only saves time but ensures the investigation is handled by someone with the proper skills and resources. In today’s complex legal landscape, having a reliable private investigator on your team can provide a crucial advantage. From uncovering hidden facts to providing admissible evidence, PIs help lawyers build stronger, more informed cases—ultimately leading to better outcomes for their clients.

Magnifying glass on top of company accounting documents
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Protecting Your Business: Detecting and Preventing Corporate Fraud

Corporate fraud is an unfortunate reality that affects businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re running a small company or managing a large organization, fraud can have serious financial, legal, and reputational consequences. From embezzlement and identity theft to falsified invoices and unauthorized transactions, the methods used to deceive companies continue to evolve. The good news? With the right preventative measures and awareness, you can protect your business from becoming a target. Understanding the Threat Corporate fraud can take many forms, including internal schemes orchestrated by employees, or external attacks such as phishing scams or fake vendor setups. The most common types of corporate fraud include asset misappropriation, financial statement fraud, and corruption. In many cases, these acts go undetected for months—or even years—costing businesses thousands, or even millions, of dollars. One red flag that business owners often overlook is irregularities in financial documentation. Things like duplicate payments, altered checks, or discrepancies in inventory should always be investigated. Even routine tasks like balancing checkbooks can be exploited if proper controls aren’t in place, especially if only one person is responsible for both preparing and approving them. Key Steps to Detect and Prevent Fraud 1. Implement Strong Internal Controls Establish checks and balances across all financial processes. This includes separating duties for accounting, purchasing, and payments. No single employee should be responsible for an entire transaction process from start to finish. For example, the person who writes checks shouldn’t be the same person who reconciles the bank statements. 2. Conduct Regular Audits Whether it’s a surprise internal audit or a scheduled third-party review, consistent financial audits can help identify suspicious activity early. These reviews can catch errors, irregularities, or trends that may indicate fraud. 3. Use Secure and Modern Accounting Tools Upgrade to accounting systems with built-in fraud detection tools and encryption. These platforms can automatically flag unusual transactions, track user activity, and limit access to sensitive financial data. Going digital also helps reduce the risk of lost or forged paperwork. 4. Train Your Team Employees are your first line of defense. Offer training sessions that teach staff how to recognize suspicious behavior and report concerns confidentially. Cultivating a culture of transparency and accountability makes it harder for fraud to thrive undetected. 5. Vet Vendors and Partners Always perform due diligence before onboarding new vendors, suppliers, or partners. Verify contact information, tax IDs, and payment details to ensure legitimacy. Fake vendors are a common method for funneling company funds into fraudulent accounts. Corporate fraud doesn’t just impact the bottom line—it can damage your company’s reputation and employee morale. By putting proactive measures in place, like separating financial duties, conducting regular audits, and monitoring activities such as writing checks, you strengthen your business’s defenses against fraud. Staying vigilant is not just smart—it’s essential for long-term success and security.

Private investigator taking pictures of cheating spouse
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Why Do People Hire Private Investigators? Top 5 Signs You Might Need One

Hiring a private investigator isn’t just for crime dramas or high-profile cases. People seek professional help for personal, legal, and business concerns that require discretion and solid evidence. But how do you know when it’s the right time to seek out private investigation services? From suspicions of infidelity to corporate fraud, private investigators handle a wide range of cases. Whether you need proof, peace of mind, or legal support, recognizing the signs that point to professional help can guide you toward the right decision. Learn the top five signs you need to work with a private investigator and how to choose a reliable firm in Los Angeles to help with your situation.  1. You Suspect a Partner of Infidelity Infidelity is one of the top reasons people hire private investigators—studies show that 20 to 25% of partners cheat. When trust erodes, doubt and secrecy take a toll. A discreet infidelity investigation can confirm suspicions or restore peace of mind. Warning signs of infidelity often include: Discreet surveillance, GPS tracking, and digital forensics help uncover the truth. At Worldwide Intelligence Network (WIN), we use these tools to provide clear evidence while ensuring complete confidentiality. 2. You Need Surveillance for Legal or Personal Reasons Monitoring someone’s activities can be necessary for both legal and personal cases. Whether it’s a child custody dispute, employee misconduct, or tracking someone’s whereabouts, a skilled surveillance investigator can observe movements, document interactions, and gather crucial details. Common reasons for hiring an investigator include: At WIN, our investigators track subjects through on-site observation and vehicle tailing, delivering clear evidence without raising suspicion. Every case uses a low-profile approach, providing clients with reliable proof for legal or personal decisions. 3. You Require a Background Check for Personal or Business Purposes A thorough background check can prevent financial loss, fraud, or potential security risks. Whether hiring a new employee, entering a business partnership, or vetting a new romantic interest, professional background check services can help you learn hidden details that could impact your decision-making. Background investigations can be helpful for identifying: WIN provides in-depth background check services for individuals and businesses, with a focus on executive and corporate investigations. The results of our research and verification process help vet potential hires, evaluate business partners, and identify risks before important decisions. 4. You Are Involved in a Legal Dispute and Need Litigation Support Legal cases often require extensive evidence gathering for civil litigation, fraud investigations, or criminal defense. Private investigators work closely with attorneys to collect witness statements, analyze documents, and reveal hidden facts that can strengthen a case. Examples of litigation support services: WIN provides litigation support for complex civil and criminal cases, working alongside attorneys to discover critical evidence. Our investigations have helped resolve fraud, embezzlement, copyright infringement, and counterfeiting cases, including locating hidden assets and exposing perjury in federal trials. 5. You Need To Locate a Missing Person Whether it’s a long-lost relative, a runaway teenager, or someone evading legal obligations, finding a missing person requires experience, resources, and investigative skills. Unlike law enforcement, private investigators are not limited by jurisdictional constraints and can dedicate their full attention to locating individuals. Common reasons for a missing person investigation: WIN’s network spans over 60 countries, with trusted investigators in major cities worldwide. This reach allows us to follow individuals across borders, gather intelligence, and provide detailed reports without location-based restrictions. Need Reliable Private Investigation Services? Choose Worldwide Intelligence Network Correct information is essential when dealing with a legal dispute, suspicions of wrongdoing, or a personal concern. A professional investigator gathers evidence and verifies facts, giving you a clearer understanding of the situation. Worldwide Intelligence Network provides trusted private investigation services backed by a team of former federal agents, veterans, and law enforcement professionals. With over 30 years of experience, an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and a commitment to confidentiality, we deliver actionable results while maintaining discretion.Get the answers you need with professional investigative services. Contact us today for a consultation so we can assess your situation and recommend the best approach.

Private investigator doing surveillance
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How Much Do Private Investigators Cost?

Infidelity, a missing person, or a business dispute can leave you searching for answers. A private investigator in Los Angeles can uncover the truth, gather evidence, and provide clarity—but how much do their services cost?  Rates vary based on the investigator’s experience, location, and the type of case. Some charge by the hour, while others offer flat fees for specific services. If you’re considering hiring one, understanding what affects pricing can help you budget and make the right choice.  Learn what goes into the cost of hiring a qualified surveillance investigator and what you can expect to pay. Fee Structures for Private Investigators Private investigators use different pricing models based on the type of work involved. Common fee structures include: These structures determine how investigators charge, but the final cost will depend on the specifics of your case and the firm you decide to work with. What Determines the Cost of Private Investigation Services? The cost of professional private investigation services varies depending on the type of service, location, experience of the investigator, and case complexity. Here’s a closer look at what affects pricing:  Factor What It Involves How It Affects Cost Type of Investigation Surveillance, fraud, missing persons, and background checks require different skills and time commitments. Complex cases require more work, increasing hourly or flat fees. For example, PIs need extended surveillance hours to investigate a cheating spouse, which typically costs between $800 and $2,500.  Investigator’s Expertise Specialized skills like cyber forensics, forensic accounting, or legal investigations require advanced training. Skilled investigators charge higher rates, but their efficiency may reduce total hours. Specialized services are typically between $125 and $400 per hour. Location and Travel Investigations in high-cost areas or requiring travel add expenses for transportation, lodging, and per diem costs. Long-distance or out-of-state cases come with additional fees. For instance, hiring a private investigator to find someone costs about $250 to $1,000, but traveling to another state or country can increase the fee. Time and Workload Extensive research, multiple interviews, or long surveillance hours increase labor costs. Cases with high time demands lead to larger invoices. Legal research alone can be $95 to $125 per hour. Equipment and Technology Used GPS tracking, hidden cameras, forensic software, and data recovery tools add operational costs. High-tech cases come with added expenses for specialized tools. A reliable private investigation firm provides quality service at a fair price. Finding one that offers real value and trusted results starts with knowing what to look for. How To Get the Best Value When Hiring a Private Investigator To ensure you receive high-quality investigative services at a fair price, consider these tips: Get Transparent, Cost-Effective Private Investigation in Los Angeles When hiring a private investigator, you deserve transparent pricing, customized services, and trusted results. Whether you need a missing person investigation, corporate fraud detection, or infidelity surveillance, Worldwide Intelligence Network provides discreet, results-driven solutions tailored to your situation. Ranked among the top five private investigation firms in the U.S., we serve attorneys, businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and families with professionalism and accuracy. Our team of former federal agents, military intelligence experts, and law enforcement professionals delivers thorough investigations with clear pricing and detailed cost estimates.Contact us today to discuss your needs and receive a quote for your case.

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The Benefits of Hiring a Private Investigator Near You

Do you need to verify a potential business partner’s claims or gather evidence for a legal matter? Private investigators (PIs) provide essential services to businesses, law firms, and individuals who need accurate information. Digital tools and online databases let you hire any firm—but working with someone who knows your area could make a difference to your case. Whether you are looking for a private investigator for infidelity surveillance or corporate due diligence, a private investigator near you can offer insights and access that remote firms can’t match. Learn the benefits of working with a local PI firm so you can choose the right professional for your case. When To Consider Hiring a Private Investigator Many cases call for more than just basic online research or informal questioning. You may benefit from local private investigation services if you’re dealing with the following situations: Benefits of Choosing a Local PI A private investigator’s success often depends on their ability to move quickly, access information, and maintain strong local connections. Before choosing a PI firm from another city or state, consider these benefits of working with someone who knows your area: Established Community Networks Your local private investigator brings years of established relationships that can affect your case’s outcome. For instance, when tracking a missing person, their connections with local property managers might reveal a new address, while their rapport with courthouse staff can expedite access to vital records. These professional networks—from relationships with county clerks and law enforcement to connections with security firms and business associations—can mean the difference between a dead end and a breakthrough in your case. Inside Knowledge of Your Area When you work with a PI firm, they bring invaluable familiarity with the area’s specific patterns and characteristics. A local investigator knows: Their intimate knowledge of the community helps them work more efficiently and notice details an outsider might miss. Quick Access and Availability A local private investigator can respond quickly when time-sensitive situations arise in your case. Having your PI nearby means they can meet with you in person within hours, pivot surveillance tactics immediately when needed, or secure time-sensitive evidence before it disappears. In-person meetings provide confidentiality and clarity that email and phone calls can’t match, especially when discussing sensitive details of your case. Lower Costs Hiring a private investigator from outside your area often means paying additional travel expenses, hotel stays, and mileage fees that can quickly inflate your total costs. Working with a local investigator helps reduce these extra charges since they operate in the area. With a firm near you, your budget goes toward actual investigative work instead of covering travel time between surveillance locations or trips to gather evidence. Work With Worldwide Intelligence Network For Trust Local Services When you require the services of a local private investigator in California, Worldwide Intelligence Network offers the community connections and qualifications you need. For over three decades, our investigators have built the relationships, area knowledge, and professional networks that make local PI services so valuable. Based in Los Angeles, we combine these local advantages with resources to serve clients nationally and internationally. Whether you need surveillance for a sensitive personal matter, evidence for a legal case, or background checks to protect your business, we can help. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how our local expertise can make a difference.

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Background Checks: What Private Investigators Can Reveal

Did you know that over 64% of résumés contain inaccuracies or outright lies? Or that a U.S.-based contractor falsified employee credentials, defrauding the federal government through false billing and wire transfers? Stories like these aren’t just headlines — they’re cautionary tales. The good news? A thorough background check could have prevented these costly mistakes. Every day, unsuspecting businesses and individuals learn the hard way about someone’s hidden past — from security guards with violent histories to romantic partners concealing criminal records. These discoveries usually come too late, after trust has been broken and damage done. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Professional background check services can uncover these red flags before they become costly mistakes, helping you make informed choices about who you let into your life or business. When it comes to revealing what lies in the shadows of someone’s past, experienced private investigators have the tools and expertise to bring the truth to light. When Background Checks Are Essential The stakes are high when it comes to protecting yourself and your interests. Here’s where background checks can offer necessary support: What Private Investigators Can Reveal A thorough background investigation can reveal detailed information that isn’t always visible through basic searches. At Worldwide Intelligence Network, our trained private detectives can help you discover the following about a subject: Area of Investigation What It Reveals How We Investigate Criminal History Complete arrest records, conviction details, sealed cases, and patterns of behavior across jurisdictions Search federal, state, and county databases; retrieve court records; cross-check case details. Employment Background Undisclosed terminations, falsified positions, disciplinary actions, inflated credentials Verify details with employers and educational institutions; examine gaps and compare dates and titles. Financial Standing Bankruptcies, liens, judgments, asset holdings, concerning financial patterns Review credit records, Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, property records, and tax documents; analyze financial transactions. Credentials and Qualifications License status, disciplinary actions, revocations, state-by-state standing Confirm licensing status with boards, review continuing education, and check disciplinary records. Civil Court Records Lawsuits, restraining orders, contract disputes, patterns of litigation Search court databases, obtain case files, and analyze judgment patterns. Business Connections Hidden ownership, conflicts of interest, problematic partnerships Review corporate filings, trace ownership chains, and analyze business registrations. Digital Footprint Social media conduct, online misrepresentations, hidden relationships Monitor social media platforms, review post history, and verify digital relationships. Why Use Private Investigation Background Check Services? When it comes to background checks, accuracy and thoroughness matter. While basic online searches might seem adequate, they often miss crucial information that only skilled investigators can discover. Licensed private detectives use specialized database access and investigative expertise to conduct comprehensive background checks. Our qualified team at Worldwide Intelligence Network combines information from multiple sources to build a comprehensive picture. We’re trained to spot inconsistencies and recognize warning signs that others might miss. Key reasons to choose our background services include: Get the Truth With Worldwide Intelligence Network Knowing who you’re dealing with in business, litigation, or personal life is essential, and high-level background investigations provide the clarity you need. For three decades, Worldwide Intelligence Network has provided clients with thorough, accurate background investigations they can trust. Our licensed and trained investigators have built a proven track record of success, handling thousands of cases with the highest level of professionalism and discretion. Whether you need an executive background check or litigation support, we have the resources to get to the truth. When you need to verify someone’s background, don’t leave it to chance. Contact us now to start your investigation and get the answers you need.

Case Study

Private Investigator Locates Runaway Child

We are licensed California Private Investigators who assist clients find their runaway children for the past twenty-six years. We enjoy a favorable success rate and are familiar with various reasons that cause children to runaway. This is a short case study of one of our investigations where we found a young runaway boy. It is heartbreaking to receive a call from a frantic parent saying that they want us to find their child who ran away. The following is a true story about an eleven-year-old boy in California who became upset at his parents and ran away. The parents heard about our success in locating runaways from friends. The parents told us their son made friends with an adult male who lived close to their home. They said their son casually mentioned that he occasionally hung out with a new friend regularly who was an adult, though it was unclear how they had met. Upon the parents discovering their child ran away, they were suspect that the same adult male was harboring him. They did not suspect the man abducted their boy, but they were fairly certain their son might be staying in the man’s town-home and that he had gone there on his own accord. Of course, they went to the man’s home, who told the parents their son was not there. After that, they called the police explaining their suspicion about the adult male. The police told them that even if their son was staying with the man and had gone there voluntarily, the police could not legally force the man to let them search his home because they had no legal authority to search his home just because he may have allowed the boy to stay with him. The police said the man would have to grant the police permission to enter his residence. The only exception would be if there were a reasonable suspicion that the child was in imminent danger, as an example if the man was on a sex offender’s registry then the police could obtain a search warrant.    Be it as it may, the police asked permission to enter the man’s home to search it. The man granted them permission and the boy was not there. On a second occasion, the parents told us that one of their neighbors saw their son go into that man’s home one evening shortly after the police searched it. We assigned one of our investigators to this case  who was a former Police Detective with extensive investigative experience tracking down missing and runaway children. Our investigator interviewed several neighbors who claimed they saw the boy on a couple of occasions near the man’s residence but they had not seen him enter or leave the man’s home. That was enough information for us to initiate surveillance on the man’s town-home. During the surveillance our investigator told us that he was 75% certain he saw the child come out the back door of the town-home, though he did not have a perfect view of the back door. Acting on this, we asked the boy’s parents to call the police again to search the residence. Officers arrived, and they were again given permission to enter the town-home a second time with our investigator . When the police were about to leave without finding the boy, our investigator noticed there was an attic door in the ceiling of the second floor. He asked the officers to please look up in the attic. There was the boy curled up into a corner of the attic. By law, the police could not arrest the man for harboring the child and they had checked to see whether the man had a prior criminal record. He did not. The child was returned to his parents, who were thrilled to have their son home. We suggested that the family seek counseling to learn why the child ran away in the first place and we asked them to try to work together toward a happy resolution. Runaways can be found, and parents with children who appear seriously despondent or depressed should seek counseling.

Case Study

Identify Thieves Caught And Imprisoned

A gentleman we’ll name John (not his real name) called us to explain that he had made his weekly visit to his local Post Office Box to pick up his mail. Upon his arrival in the Post Office, he noticed his and several other PO Boxes had been broken into. THE VICTIM John reported the break- in to the Post Office manager, and the local Sheriff. John was understandably upset due to the fact that the Sheriff had not made much of an attempt to find who broke into the Post Office Boxes for about two months. The theft occurred in January when he and his wife’s year-end 1099 Tax forms were due to arrive that contained their Social Security numbers. A short time later, credit card statements arrived with thousands of dollars of unauthorized charges. John retained us to find the thieves who committed the crime and to try to reclaim his creditworthiness. He meticulously organized all of fraudulent charges made, the amount of each charge, and the establishments where the stolen credit cards were used. One of the fraudulent charges was at a Wal-Mart like store in Coachella Valley. THE INVESTIGATION INTO IDENTITY THEFT We proceeded to that store, hoping they had surveillance cameras. When we approached the manager we were delighted that he willingly volunteered to run the credit card number, the amount of the sale, and the date of purchase in the store’s computer. In less than five minutes he pulled up a video of the people who made those fraudulent charges. We observed four people, two men, and two women. SUSPECTED THIEVES CAUGHT ON CAMERA We asked the manager to please check the cameras in the parking lot and he obliged. We saw the foursome getting into a vehicle, and we were able to acquire the license plate number. Ordinarily, we would have had to get law enforcement to serve the store with a search warrant in order to see those videos, but we were extremely fortunate that the manager heard from other customers that they too had been ripped off by someone using their credit cards. TRACKING DOWN THE THIEVES We ran the license plate number, knowing we would not obtain the owner’s address because California state law prohibits addresses from being shown unless a warrant is issued. However, our proprietary database does run names and delivers us all of the possible addresses for the named person. We obtained an address in Fontana. We initiated surveillance on that address but unfortunately no luck. We never saw the suspects’ car, nor did we see the suspects go in or come out of the house. MEETING WITH LOCAL POLICE We decided to check with the Fontana Police Department, hoping they might have something on the suspect. We met with a detective, explained what we knew, and asked if he had any idea how to find out where the suspect lives. He ran the license plate, and saw that the vehicle had been stopped recently for a traffic violation. The officer who made the stop routinely ran the suspect’s license number and read he had been recently paroled at which time he asked the suspect for his current address, which is mandatory for parolees to reveal. The detective confirmed there was a current address written on the citation. THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT JOINS THE INVESTIGATION Next, it was time to share what we learned with the area United States Postal Inspector (USPI) in neighboring San Bernardino County, who was very attentive while listening to our findings. The USPI searched her database and found the arrest and conviction report on the suspect who had been found guilty of identity theft. The USPI then checked her open case file database for any US Post Office Box break-ins around Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. She found that there was a string of robberies all along Interstate 10 Freeway. The break-ins started the week the suspect was paroled. The USPI then called the Fontana detective and acquired the address for the of the suspect. THIEVES BUSTED BY THE FBI The USPI contacted the FBI, who secured a warrant for the arrest of the suspect and any evidence related to US Post Office Box credit card thefts. A raid followed, and the suspect, his wife, adult daughter, and boyfriend, who we learned was a heroin addict, were all arrested. A mountain of evidence was secured consisting of purchases made with stolen credit cards found all over their house, along with illicit drugs. The suspects applied for new credit cards in the names of their victims but used their own post office boxes for delivery of those credit cards. All four suspects were convicted and off they went to Federal Prisons. INVESTIGATIVE TIMELINE Within three weeks of commencing this investigation, we identified the suspects, met with the Fontana Police Department conferred with the USPI, and had all four suspects convicted. Needless to say John was delighted with the outcome of our investigation, and he was reimbursed by his credit card companies for all of the fraudulent charges.

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