11 Mar 2019
People often tell me they would make good investigator because
they are observant and patient. A board member of one of the investigator’s
associations has expressed this view: “academic qualifications are not necessary;
patience common sense and tenacity are the important qualities. I once employed
my elderly aunt simply because she was very thorough - and she didn't look like
a detective.”
This paints the picture of an industry where even the supposed
leaders adopt a hap hazard approach. It seems like many investigators are doing
their best to maintain the typical television portrayal of a 'private eye' and
the truth is, there is nothing to stop them. The investigation industry is
still currently unregulated by the Security Industry Act 2003, still allowing
for substandard investigators in the industry. It is past time for a change. The
role of the investigator needs to be an operational and a business role,
whether you are working as a sole individual, a partnership or as like Expert
Investigations Group, a large established company.
So operationally what makes a good investigator?
First, it is essential to know the law, the stated cases and the
points to prove for the commission of the offence. If they do not know these
then how can they investigate?
Second, they must be experienced in lawfully gathering, preserving
and presenting evidence in the correct way so that no laws, regulations or
procedures are breached. In which case the evidence will be admissible and will
stand cross examination in any legal forum.
Third, they must have the right operational skills. If they are a
surveillance officer, are they highly trained? If they are going to interview
both suspect and / or witness, have they got experience in following the
correct models, such as the PEACE method? Are they aware of the rules for
introduction of hearsay, specific aspects of guidelines, such as R v Johnson
and R v Turnbull, in order that all evidence has been secured in the statement
or interview?
Fourth, do they know the rules of logging and collating evidence
and the introduction of used and unused material?
Aside from operational capabilities, a good investigator understands
their clients’ needs and requirements and have the infrastructure to ensure
that they continually provide the highest service.
Expert Investigations Group
T: 02476 630498
The Innovation Centre, Binley Business Park
Harry Weston Rd
CV3 2TX
Coventry
United Kingdom
Shakespeare Classic Line Ltd was run from Nunhold Business Park in Hatton, Warwickshire, whereby they fraudulently sold a fractional ownership share in a fleet of yachts as an investment to unsuspecting members of the public, which involved aggressive and unfair commercial practises and fraudulent trading.