There is a popular misconception that Private Investigators compete with officers to solve crimes by breaking the law or getting in the way. Crime shows and books tend to purport this idea to make stories seem more exciting and interesting. In reality, Private Investigators often work with police officers to solve crimes. Police officers may even come to Private Investigators as clients to gain knowledge through methods that they are restricted from using in a public position.
Collecting Evidence
The job of a Private Investigator enables them to use approaches to obtain evidence and information that are forbidden for police officers. Officers can outsource work to Private Investigators to gather more evidence for a robust case. It is important to remember that Private Investigators are not above the law. They must collect all of their evidence within the confines of the code for it to be usable in court.
Extra Manpower
There are times when a police force just doesn't have enough members to handle their caseloads. When that happens, Private Investigators are often hired to help pick up the slack in criminal investigations. Police officers focus on their most pressing cases while the Private Investigators interview witnesses, gather evidence, and perform other essential tasks. Many Private Investigators today are retired officers or military personnel.
Offering Perspective
Another significant advantage to using a Private Investigator is a fresh perspective. Private Investigators have a unique set of skills and abilities that may not exist within the police force. Bringing a new perspective into a case is always a great way to gain fresh ideas and suggestions. Private Investigators may also have resources from which the police force can benefit such as personal contacts and case files.
Serving Warrants
Individuals involved in a case are often apprehensive about talking to police officers. They see officers as a direct arm of the law and may be worried about the repercussions of their statements. On the other hand, witnesses may be more willing to talk to a Private Investigator. As private citizens, Private Investigators may be able to receive more details and information from witnesses.
Private Investigators are an excellent resource for many different cases. Despite what television or books may describe, the relationship between city law enforcement and independent sleuths is more cooperative than competitive. Police officers and Private Investigators are more effective when working together.
Start or Advance Your Private Investigator Career
Interested in becoming a Private Investigator? Looking to further improve your current skill set? Online Private Investigator courses will help you develop your knowledge and expertise on the subject and/or catapult you into a new career field. Learn more about the variety of investigator courses available at the National Investigative Training Academy, Inc. (NITA). Contact us at (800) 730-6482 today.
Our enrollment counselors are here to answer any questions you might have about our state- and board-approved status, pre-licensing training, or professional development programs.
