In the realm of private investigations, the world often appears shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Popular culture has often portrayed Private Investigators as shadowy figures lurking in the background, following their subjects relentlessly. While the reality of private investigation is far from these Hollywood depictions, it raises an important question: can Private Investigators be charged with stalking? In this article, Terri Dornfeld, a Licensed Private Investigator with Investigreat in Connecticut, will shed light on this pressing issue and provide insights into the legal boundaries that Private Investigators must navigate.
Understanding the Role of a Private Investigator in Connecticut
Before delving into the legal aspects of private investigation, it’s crucial to comprehend the legitimate functions of a Private Investigator in Connecticut. Private Investigators play a vital role in gathering information, uncovering evidence, and providing insights for various types of cases, including criminal defense, civil litigation, background checks, and more. They are skilled professionals who conduct thorough investigations within the boundaries of the law.
Differentiating Between Investigative Work and Stalking
Private Investigators are not vigilantes or individuals with a license to stalk. Stalking is a criminal offense, and Private Investigators are bound by the law just like any other citizen. They cannot engage in activities that constitute stalking, such as unwanted surveillance, harassment, or invasion of privacy.
In Connecticut, as in many other states, stalking is a criminal offense defined as a pattern of willful and malicious conduct intended to cause fear, emotional distress, or apprehension in another person. Private Investigators are well aware of these legal boundaries and are trained to ensure their actions remain within the confines of the law.
The Importance of Consent
One fundamental principle in private investigations is obtaining consent when necessary. While there are instances where surveillance or information gathering is warranted, it is essential to have explicit consent from the client and adhere to all applicable laws when applicable.
For instance, if a Private Investigator is hired to conduct a background check on a potential employee, they must inform the subject of the investigation and obtain their consent. Without proper consent, investigations can quickly cross into unlawful territory. That is why we always suggest to employers that when hiring a new employee, that they include a release to conduct a background search, In case it is needed in the future.
Respecting The Law
In Connecticut, there are strict laws governing privacy and surveillance. Private Investigators must be well-versed in these laws and adhere to them diligently. Violating an individual’s privacy rights can lead to legal consequences.
Privacy laws in Connecticut generally prohibit the interception of wire or oral communications without the consent of all parties involved. Private Investigators must also respect an individual’s right to privacy in public spaces, ensuring they do not intrude upon personal matters that are not relevant to the investigation. We also understand what is considered a “private” area and “public” area. For example, if we are following a subject that is thought to be faking an injury, we are able to obtain photos and video footage of them playing in the park with their children. However, if that same subject is on a trampoline in his fenced-in backyard, we are not legally able to obtain photos or video. His or her backyard is considered “private” just like we cannot “peak” in the house through a window.
One of the most important laws to remember when hiring a Private Investigator to conduct surveillance for you, is to remember that we, the Investigator, is an “extension of you”. What that means is, if there is a restraining order against you by the subject involved, we cannot work for you in regards to that person. By working for you, we are considered to be under the same restriction as you are in that regard. So until that restraining order is lifted, there is nothing we can do to help you.
Professional Ethics and Conduct
Ethical conduct is at the core of every reputable Private Investigator’s practice. Terri Dornfeld emphasizes that at Investigreat, they adhere to a strict code of ethics that guides their actions and decisions. This code includes respecting the dignity and rights of all individuals, maintaining a high level of confidentiality, and conducting investigations with integrity. We are sometimes asked to work cases that we know we do not have any confidence in being able to succeed at and we will respectfully decline those cases. While some Private Investigators may take every case, we will never lead someone to believe we can obtain information that we know we cannot.
Addressing Concerns
It’s essential for individuals and potential clients to know that Private Investigators are not above the law. If you believe you are being stalked or subjected to unwarranted surveillance, it’s crucial to reach out to law enforcement authorities and seek legal assistance.
Private Investigators like those at Investigreat work diligently to provide valuable services while adhering to all legal and ethical standards. They are a resource for individuals and businesses seeking to uncover facts, gather evidence, and navigate complex legal matters.
Conclusion
In Connecticut, Private Investigators play a vital role in assisting individuals and businesses in various legal and personal matters. However, it’s essential to understand that Private Investigators are bound by the same laws and ethical standards as everyone else. Stalking is a criminal offense, and Private Investigators must conduct their work within the boundaries of the law.
Terri Dornfeld, a Licensed Private Investigator at Investigreat, emphasizes the importance of ethics, consent, and respecting privacy laws in their investigative work. By adhering to these principles, Private Investigators can provide valuable services while ensuring that their actions remain legal and ethical.
If you require the services of a professional Private Investigator in Connecticut, don’t hesitate to reach out to Investigreat. They are committed to assisting you with your investigative needs while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Your peace of mind and legal compliance are their top priorities.
Meet the author, Terri Dornfeld:
Terri Dornfeld has been working right alongside Expert Private Investigator, Adam Dornfeld throughout his career and is also a Licensed Private Investigator in both New York State and Connecticut. Some of her articles have also been published by both “The Investigator’s Toolbox” and “CALI” (California Association of Licensed Investigators) and she and Adam have been interviewed for their expertise by the “PI Perspective” Podcast Series. In addition to running the office, she also performs surveillances and site inspections. Her strength is in OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence) searches, deep web, data and social media searches. She does her best to get the answers every client needs, and delivers.