Questions and Answers from a Long Island Private Investigator
We understand that potential clients often have questions about our services and the nature of our work. To address common inquiries and clarify misconceptions, we’ve compiled the following information:
Is it legal?
- Generally, yes. The key consideration is a person’s “reasonable expectation of privacy.” Individuals in public spaces, such as parking lots or streets, do not have this expectation. Conversely, those in private settings like their homes, backyards, or bathrooms do.
- We do not accept cases where the potential client has a restraining or court order against them concerning the subject.
- Audio recording is conducted only when it involves the investigator and one other person. New York State’s “one-party consent” law permits recording if at least one participant is aware. Placing audio devices to record conversations without consent or a legal warrant is illegal; only law enforcement can obtain such warrants.
What information do you need to get started?
To initiate surveillance, we require:
- Vehicle details: License plate numbers and any distinctive decals or markings.
- Photographs or descriptions of the subject: Both professional and casual images help in accurate identification.
- Starting point for surveillance: Specific locations or routines of the subject.
After signing a retainer agreement and receiving the retainer fee (minimum four hours), we can commence your case.
Understanding unique identifiers—such as accents, jewelry, gait, physical traits, and typical attire—is beneficial. Information about the subject’s use of public transportation, motorcycles, or pedestrian habits is also helpful.
Certain environments pose surveillance challenges, including gated communities, private parking lots, and large buildings with multiple access points. In such cases, we may conduct preliminary area assessments to enhance the chances of success.
Knowing the subject’s frequented locations—like gyms, bars, restaurants, or residences of friends and relatives—assists in effective planning.
How long does it take?
The duration varies, as human behavior is unpredictable. Our retainer agreements specify a set number of hours, and we do not exceed this without client approval.
Surveillance is akin to fishing or hunting; immediate results are possible but not guaranteed. While some infidelity cases yield evidence on the first day, others may require multiple attempts.
Familiarity with the subject is crucial. Overzealous initial surveillance can lead to detection. If no activity is observed at a residence within the the initial four hours, we typically suggest to reschedule.
Why should I pay for more than one investigator?
Multiple investigators enhance the likelihood of success, especially in complex environments like New York City or heavily populated area or towns.
- Dense areas: Traffic and pedestrian congestion can impede single-vehicle surveillance. Additional investigators provide flexibility and coverage.
- On-foot surveillance: One investigator can follow on foot while another remains mobile, accommodating sudden changes like the subject boarding a bus or taxi.
- Multiple exits: Buildings with various access points require more personnel to monitor effectively.
- Rotation and discretion: Alternating investigators and vehicles reduce the risk of detection. A male-female team often appears less conspicuous, as a lone individual may draw unwanted attention.
Do you use GPS tracking on a person’s vehicle?
This area is legally complex. In New York State, installing a GPS device requires the vehicle owner’s consent. Placing a GPS without consent is a criminal offense. In domestic cases involving jointly owned vehicles, GPS tracking may be used, provided the client proves ownership.
While GPS devices indicate a vehicle’s location, they lack contextual information about the driver’s activities. Additionally, factors like signal strength and battery life can affect reliability, and GPS is less effective in areas like large concrete parking structures.
How do you conduct surveillance?
Our approach emphasizes discretion and blending into the environment. We avoid positioning ourselves directly outside a subject’s residence to minimize detection risk. Instead, we aim to observe from a distance, monitoring the subject’s movements to public areas.
Occasionally, we inform local law enforcement of our presence in a specific area for a lawful investigation, without disclosing the subject’s identity. This precaution addresses potential concerns if neighbors report suspicious activity.
Do you ever lose people?
While rare, losing a subject can occur due to unforeseen circumstances like traffic conditions. Safety is paramount; we avoid reckless behavior, such as running red lights, to maintain public and personal safety. If a subject is lost, we reposition to a likely location to resume surveillance.
Do you ever get detected or “made”?
Detection is uncommon but can happen if an investigator remains on a subject too long or if the subject is particularly vigilant, possibly due to engaging in illicit activities or heightened situational awareness.
Can you obtain video at night or inside places?
Low-light conditions present challenges, but modern cameras perform well with minimal illumination. We utilize handheld covert cameras to capture footage in indoor settings like bars and restaurants.
How do you achieve good results?
Success stems from meticulous planning, patience, and dedication. Upon client commitment, we reciprocate with unwavering effort. Effective investigations require time, financial resources, and persistent diligence.
Our team comprises licensed, bonded, and insured private investigators with diverse backgrounds, including former law enforcement and seasoned detectives. This diversity enables us to adapt to various situations and environments seamlessly.
For more information or to discuss your specific needs, please contact us directly.