Archive for July, 2009

Substance Abuse

Monday, July 20th, 2009

A special subset of child-related domestic investigations deals with ascertaining whether any drug or alcohol abuse is occurring in the home. There are a number of ways investigators can uncover substance abuse such as trash monitoring and surveillance of the subject. 

Substance abuse carries unique dangers unlike other cases of child neglect and abuse. Illegal drugs can cause dangerous and violent behavior in individuals who might otherwise not be prone to such actions. The culture of secrecy that builds in the household may be used to hide other activities. Children raised in houses with substance abuse are far more likely to have substance abuse problems in the future. 

In these cases, getting help for the parent is as important as ensuring the child is in a safe environment.

Don’t Do Your Own Asset Searches

Tuesday, July 7th, 2009

There are two reasons people hire Houston and Dallas private investigators to conduct their asset searches. Most people don’t have the skills and wouldn’t even know where to begin. Trained investigators can accomplish more in an hour than the typical person could in a month. 

A more important reason is the legal ramifications. Asset searches involve invading a person’s privacy and can lead to trouble if not conducted correctly. Some methods are legal only when conducted by a licensed investigator; others aren’t legal at all. Do you know the difference? Private investigators conduct searches quickly and legally and by using one you get the money you deserve more quickly.

Businesses Commit Fraud As Well

Wednesday, July 1st, 2009

Business owners face more than claims from employees or customers. They also find that partner businesses may be cheating them as well. Service providers might charge them for services that were never performed. Vendors might substitute different items in an order or ship less than what was bought, hoping the error will be overlooked. Organizations might run up large debts before declaring bankruptcy. As above, these are often honest businesses faced with hard times who decide to step over the line just a little. 

In these hard times, businesses have to protect themselves from these kinds of situations. More companies are hiring surveillance companies to investigate routine activities even if fraud is not suspected. The cost is a fraction of what will be lost in a dishonest transaction and buys not just financial protection but peace of mind.