Now We Can Help You Keep Your Children Safer

One of the most disturbing trends of our time is the increase in sex offenses against our children.
A study by the US Department of Justice found- 67% of all victims of sexual assault were juveniles, under 18 years old- Thirty-four percent of the victims were younger than 12- One of every seven was less than 6 years oldThis is such a tragedy but at least parents are becoming more aware of the problem. They're taking steps to safeguard their children by keeping them from going out alone or from going anywhere unsupervised.
If you're a parent, now there's even more you can do to protect your children.

How the Internet Can Help You Protect Your Children

Your computer and the Internet can play a major part in helping you keep your children safe. If you're like most folks, you probably have at least some experience looking up information online, using Google or Yahoo search perhaps. What you may not realize is how much information you can uncover online about sex offenders and other criminals who pose a threat to your family. Specialized background checking services, like us, now exist that take you directly to criminal histories and sex offender records. While the common search engines are good for finding general information on a variety of topics, they're not so helpful when you want to search for criminal records. The specialized services, like us, make it a whole lot easier and faster. I became familiar with these criminal background checking services from my work as a professional investigator. If you're a parent trying to protect your children, you'll want to find out as much as you can about what's available.
You Can Now Find Out Secrets Once Deeply Hidden While Sitting at Your Computer

It used to be time consuming and costly to check someone's background to see if they had a criminal history. You had to go through some expensive reporting agency. Not today - not with G Woodbury & Associates, Inc, we have Criminal record databases so readily available to us.
Sometimes referred to as Internet Detective sites, or Personal Search sites, these web-based search services give you the low-down on all kinds of formerly-hidden information.
They let you make complete criminal background checks and give you access to detailed information including:

- Sex Offender Status Records
- Geographic Locations of Registered Sex Offenders
- Criminal Records for all kinds of crimes
- Prison Records
- FBI and other Law Enforcement Agency Files
- Criminal History

Why Checking Criminal Backgrounds Can Help You Spot Crime Before It Happens

The unfortunate truth is that many offenders commit crimes again and again. The DOJ tracked one sample group of around three hundred thousand offenders and discovered an amazing fact. This one group of felons has so far accounted for nearly five million arrest charges over their recorded careers.
Here are more disturbing findings from US Department of Justice studies:

- When criminals were arrested for a new crime, more than half of them were out on probation, parole or pretrial release for a previous crime.
- 39% of jail inmates had already served 3 or more prior sentences.
- Of the hundreds of thousands of criminals released from prisons during a one year period, an estimated 67.5% were rearrested for a felony or serious misdemeanor within 3 years, 46.9% were reconvicted, and 25.4% resentenced to prison for a new crime. And the most chilling statistics
- Sex offenders were about four times more likely than non-sex offenders to be arrested for another sex crime after their discharge from prison.
- Of released sex offenders and child molesters arrested for committing another sex crime, 40% perpetrated the new offense within a year or less from their prison discharge.

It's extremely troubling but the very fact that so many criminals are repeat offenders is what makes using criminal background checks so effective. Those past crimes leave a trail. Access to that trail, that criminal history, is easily available through the specialized background check services.
The criminal history you can easily find out there can forewarn you. You'll know if someone has a criminal background and is therefore likely commit a crime again. It's not pre-judging. It's just being realistic and practical.

Experts Recommend Parents Use Criminal Background Checking Services

Safety experts are starting to recommend that parents use a criminal background checking service regularly. By running a criminal background check on anyone we can find suspicious or even anyone your child might come into contact with, you'll know if there's anything to worry about. You'll be armed with the knowledge you need to take appropriate action.
We can use the search services to check out your baby sitter, nanny, au pair, day care center and staff, and even school teachers and workers. You can use it to search geographically and find out if known sex offenders live near you. It's now possible to determine exactly where they live.

When You Choose a Criminal Background Search Service, Here's What to Look For

To help you find the best possible service for criminal background checking, here are the things I've found important to consider during a review:

1. Free versus Paid
I've been disappointed by the free services. Better to pay the small fee and get quality information you can trust. Many of the better services have special offers of multi-year memberships for a low one-time fee. The cost can be less than what you'd pay for a low-priced blouse or golf shirt.
2. Speed
You want a service that responds quickly and gives you exactly the information you need. Make sure you try it out. Check both speed and accuracy!
3. Proprietary Database
If a service compiles their own database, it's a sign they're more likely to be in the business for the long term. That's because a proprietary database is costly to build and maintain. A company wouldn't invest if they didn't expect to stay in business.
From a usability standpoint, a dedicated database is better too. You get a single interface that you can quickly learn. (One note: I've never seen a free service that has its own database. Most of the free services I've checked out are really just link farms - they just point you at some public or government database. You could get that from the general search engines.)

Final Word
It's a threatening world but fortunately, you can contact us to better protect your children. Like the experts recommend, contact a Private Investigator for Criminal Background Checking service and use them regularly.

Pre-Employment Investigation Services

Conducting Reference and Background Inquiries

Reference and background inquiries allow an employer to verify information provided by the applicant. Companies who make proper and judicious use of the information gathered as a result of a thorough background investigation typically reduce exposure to employee fraud, theft, embezzlement, turnover, unqualified employees, negligent hiring claims and violence in the workplace. We are the greater Michigan experts in conducting all types of pre employment investigations.

The following are the most important aspects that makeup a background investigation.

Additionally, how the information can be used to significantly reduce employee difficulties and employment litigation is also discussed: Employer References Checking past employers is used primarily to verify information provided by the applicant on resumes and applications such as dates of employment, job title, compensation, reasons for separation, and re-hire status. With even a small amount of information provided by a past or current employer, you may be able to gauge an applicant’s skill, ability and honesty or perhaps areas such as attendance problems, violent behavior, and manageability.
-Required element in the defense of negligent hiring claims (regardless of whether or not the reference shares information).
Education Verification An important integrity check. Surveys suggest that as many as 1 in 3 resumes and applications contain inaccurate education assertions and that more than 500,000 Americans have bought their academic degrees. This area contains the second highest rate of inaccuracy, behind salary.

This check verifies education commiserate with position requirements.
-This is one of the easiest checks to pursue.
-This may include industry specific certifications and other non-degree-oriented training.

Personal & Professional References

Similar to screening employer references and great for gaining an insight into some personality traits of the applicant.
- Addresses of friends and family that are in other states, or are otherwise a great distance away, may also indicate that the candidate had lived in that area.

This is important regarding criminal record checks.

Department of Motor Vehicles Report May verify the type, status, validity, and restrictions of the applicant’s driver’s license. Can also be used to verify information provided by the candidate such as current address, date of birth and license endorsements.
-Essential if the applicant will drive on company time or use company vehicles. -May indicate a history of substance abuse.
-Required element in the defense of negligent hiring claims.

Social Security Number Trace

A specialized report that may indicate a social security number’s validity or uncover aliases and other people using the same number. Generally includes a candidate’s current and previously reported addresses for comparison to an application.
-Previous addresses should be used in the criminal history check.
-Required element in defense of negligent hiring claims.

Criminal Background Checks

Make a thorough criminal background check. It is not uncommon for employers to be sued for an employee’s illegal acts. Do not check arrest histories, only records of criminal convictions. Compare to application to determine a candidate’s honesty. You should not immediately disqualify a candidate for convictions, unless they are not included on the application. Convictions must recent and job related (i.e. driver applicant with a DWI conviction or a retail candidate convicted of shoplifting or theft). The criminal background check is essential in considering a candidate’s character, integrity, history of violent behavior, and suitability for the job. It is best to visit the appropriate county’s Clerk of Court criminal records office in person but you can also reach them by phone, fax, computer or mail.
-Past performance is indicative of future results.
-Required element in the defense of negligent hiring claims.
-If you should find information that causes you not to hire an individual, keep a copy for your records.

Pre-Employment Credit Check

Also called a PEER report by credit reporting bureaus. This report is similar to a standard consumer credit report. It may contain secured and unsecured loan, revolving credit (credit card) and other debt information, as well as payment history. It may include information from public record sources such as judgments, liens, and bankruptcies. -Used to gauge a candidate’s fiscal responsibility and financial pressures.
-May also include information from the less expensive Social Security Trace.

Federal & State License Verification

Used when an applicant must have a license for the job. Verifies the validity, type and status of required licensing.
-Complaints and administrative actions regarding licensed individuals may also be available.
-Required element in the defense of negligent hiring claims.

Honesty, Attitude, and Psychological Profile Testing

Although not a background or reference investigation, these tests have a definite place in the pre-hire process. These surveys measure a candidate’s attitude regarding honesty, ethics, substance abuse, reliability, work and supervisors.
-These test typically cost between $6-$10 per candidate.
-Over 45% of Fortune 100 Companies use profile testing at some level in their organization.

Drug Screening Again, tests for the use of illicit drug use also have a definite place in the pre-hire process. Many studies have linked drug use in the workplace to higher than average losses. According to one such study, the average theft incident per employee with a substance addiction is 6.3 times higher than to the average theft incident committed by a non-addicted employee. OSHA has recently re-released information indicating that employees in companies with drug screening programs are 4 times less likely to have job related accidents, equating to greater productivity and profits.
-Required element in the defense of negligent hiring claims (especially when employees operate machinery, drive on company time or use company vehicles).

Keep in mind, the results from these reports must be compared against provided information in order to measure an applicant’s honesty. Hiring a dishonest candidate is never a good decision. There are many more sources for background and reference investigations than have been included here; a licensed private investigation agency specializing in pre-employment investigations may be able to help you identify and obtain any additional needs. Before you make your next hiring decision or offer of employment, call us at 1.888.877.5749- free of charge and obligation- just to make sure that you've covered all of your bases. This is our commitment to all small and medium-sized business owners without the resources large corporations have at their disposal. As in all aspects of the hiring process, federal and state laws may govern how you use or share information obtained while conducting these and other checks; always maintain documentation generated as a result of these reports. Furthermore, all positions do not require every check or screening process included; for example, a waiter’s position in a restaurant may not warrant the expense of a credit check, motor vehicle report or psychological profile testing.

Some Important Considerations:

· All employers should seriously consider a comprehensive drug-screening program.
· Any time a state or federal license is required for the position, a license verification check must be completed.
· Background investigations for jobs requiring access to cash, financial records, and valuable merchandise (jewelry, weapons, electronics, etc.) should include a pre-employment credit check, with check-ups performed semi-annually.
· Department of Motor Vehicle Records should be checked semi-annually.
· Criminal Background checks should be completed once a year.
· Additional investigation components should be verified when an employee is promoted.

There are many other checks and resources available to the public that can be used to uncover possible sources of fraud, theft, and dishonesty. The components listed above are the most common elements of a background investigation and are not meant to be an exhaustive study. The services of a competent investigations company should be sought to discuss additional options.

Background Checks: How They Can Help Better Protect Your Small Business Against Crime

If you run a small business, you've got a lot of worries. Besides all the normal concerns like competition and pricing and location and customer service... now security has become increasingly important. You face the threat of theft, fraud, embezzlement, scams... the list seems almost endless.

When you're in business, you can run up against...
- Suppliers who provide shoddy goods that you don't discover until after you've paid for them
- Customers whose orders you promptly fill but who wiggle out of paying
- Employees who rob you of everything from supplies and equipment to cash and services.

The Federation of Small Business - a British business group reported that over half (58%) of all small businesses in the UK suffered at least one crime during a recent two year period. They concluded:

"Crime, and the fear of crime, can directly impact on day to day business activities. It can damage a business image, resulting in the loss of existing customers and deterioration in the quality and range of services offered by the business, which will limit turnover (profits) andrestrict business development."

When you run a small business, it's up to you to look out for your company. But how?
Background Search Services on the Web Provide an Economical Answer

Many of the problems that small businesses face in trying to deter crime can be helped with information available from G Woodbury & Associates, Inc.. We can use 21st Century technology to get the better of the crooks and thieves and scam artists. But if you're not familiar with what's available, you may not realize all the important things you can find out with a good background checking service.
It used to be expensive to check into someone's background to see if they were hiding anything. Not today - not with G Woodbury & Associates, Inc. Your business will benefit most from the more in-depth background checking services. These higher quality services usually charge a fee, but it's smaller than you'd expect - especially considering the volumes and usefulness of the information we provide. Pre-Emplyment Screenings are often less than what you'd pay to bring in lunch for a staff meeting. Plus, our services are kept more up-to-date and are typically faster and easier to use. Our services give you the low-down on all kinds of formerly-hidden information.

Here are the types of things you can and should be looking into for the protection of your business...

Criminal Background Checks

Any time your business is dealing with someone you don't know, you should run a quick check to see if they have any history of criminal activity. It's very simple to find out about:

- Criminal Records
- FBI Records
- Prison Records
- Sex Offender Status

You will recieve access to their entire criminal history if there is one. With violence in the workplace such a major issue, a simple criminal check can be a very effective way to avoid problems before they happen. Background Check for Employment (Pre-Employment Screening)
If you've got a small business, you should be pre-screening each person you consider hiring. No matter how professional, or how harmless, they appear.

A small print shop franchise in Florida hired an especially friendly fellow as their bookkeeper after the owner got too busy to handle it himself. The new employee didn't offer much in the way of references but he sounded like he knew what he was doing and - big plus - he agreed to work cheap. The owner figured he would save money hiring the guy. He figured wrong.
The bookkeeper drained more than a hundred thousand dollars out of the company before they found him out. Turned out he'd previously been charged with embezzlement. Something a criminal background check would have quickly turned up.

Contact G Woodbury & Associates, Inc. at 1.888.877.5749 with any questions.

Who Should You Trust?

We all have someone in our lives with whom we feel we can share all of our thoughts and secrets. Usually it is a member of our family, or a schoolmate whose friendship has endured through the decades. These people have usually seen us at our best and at our worst, and they have been right there by our sides to see us through it all. Such friends and family share in the triumphs and suffer through the sorrows. There are no ulterior motives.

Many of us also have friends we have known for quite some time, who are always open and friendly, but never really help carry the burden when the going gets tough. Or we have family members who suddenly pop into our lives from seemingly nowhere.
How many of these people do you trust? Would you trust them with your life? Can you trust them with a secret? Or do you trust no one?

Be careful who you trust – your welfare may depend upon it

When it comes to matters of great importance, we must be very cautious with our secrets. How many times have you heard stories of the trusted caregiver stealing his or her elderly charge blind? Suddenly a helpless senior citizen with no family to speak of is left destitute, their life’s savings stolen from them by the very person who was supposed to care for them.
Or, how many times have you seen one person suddenly befriend another, only because they wanted something they couldn’t otherwise attain? Remember Selena, the singer? Her trusted manager and friend not only stole from her, but she eventually killed her.
How do you know who you can trust, or if you even should? In cases of close family, you most likely already know who has stood by you through it all and who has not. However, when it comes to other people, use caution and trust your judgment.

Research their intentions and past, easily and legally

If you feel someone has befriended you because they want something from you, play detective and try to find out what that person’s wants and needs are. Learning what they lack in their life may very well hold the key to what they are looking for from you – giving you the knowledge to protect yourself and your assets.

If you suspect your newfound friend is in financial trouble, try looking into court records to see if any bankruptcies have been filed, or any judgments have been made against that person. Look for property foreclosures, IRS or other tax liens, or court-ordered wage garnishments. Try to determine if your friend has a gambling problem.

On the other hand, you may suspect your new friend is a thief, or running from someone. A personal background check should reveal secrets about your friend’s life, including any criminal misconduct.

Most of this investigation can be done via the Internet by searching public records. However, you may have to dig into many different databases to get the answers you want. If you are looking for an easy, quick way to search an individual’s true history, an online background check service, such as G Woodbury & Associates, Inc., is an affordable way to search all available databases with us.

Looking into someone’s past may not seem necessary, but it will be well worth it if it saves you the headache of a stolen identity or an empty bank account. It will also be worth it if you are able to forge one of those rare, lifelong friendships

Teen Investigations, Investigating Teenagers

Teen investigations are unique and at times a very sobering experience for the entire family, but becoming more prominent and necessary. Providing peace of mind through discreet investigations of your teen to verify their activities can save their life.
Things are much different for teenagers growing up in 2009 the last year of the 2000s decade versus previous decades. Drug use, gang activity, shoplifting / theft, school shootings and violent attacks on fellow students are common headlines in the news today. I would have never imagined these headlines being so common. These alarming stories are not limited to just inner cities but have spread throughout our country and impact us no matter what corner of the United States we live in from rural farm lands like Lancaster, PA to New York City and Los Angeles.
We all need car insurance, home owners insurance and health insurance. So, why would you not want to insure your child? Having a teen investigation conducting when there are red flags being waved to verify and identify what is taking place with your most valued possession, your child, should not be overlooked or ignored. What is he/she doing and with whom? Making the decision to investigate your child is not an easyone, but in the grand scheme of things, this decision is small but larger than life.

RED FLAGS

Poor grades?
Mood swings?
Poor attendance?
Suspected Drug Use?
Different friends, recently?
Disappear for hours at a time?
Hanging with the wrong crowd?
Discreet or excessive computer use?
Is your child acting different or strange?
Is your teenager dating and or involved with an older adult?
Does the mileage in the family car match up to places he/she was supposed to be?

Now is the time to identify when your teen is making poor judgments or unethical decisions before they make that final turn into gangs, drugs and other violent and dangerous activities.
When conducted before it is too late, teen investigations can save your child’s life. Parents have the right to know and protect their children, insuring that their safety and well being today will provide a lifetime of happiness tomorrow.

Author Name: Jeff Stein

Property Management Security Consulting

"Being proactive about property security costs less than the reactions associated with a pending lawsuit". Scott Coggins, CPP

Do you employ "Courtesy Officers"?

If you're an owner or property manager of an apartment building, then the safety of your residents as well as the condition of your building is very important to you. One of the more frightening crimes that can occur to a tenant is an invasion. A home invasion is when robbers force their way into an apartment to commit a robbery or other crimes. It is particularly frightening because it violates our private space and the one place that we think of as our sanctuary.
The premises liability exposure to tenants, visitors, or employees is staggering given the nature of the high concentration of people. Property managers and owners truly hold their futures in their own hands when it comes to security. The word "security" is one that would seem to be avoided at all costs because of apartment management's concern about the implied meaning. The truth is that security measures are already in place and acknowledging that appropriately goes a long way towards enhancing the conditions of a property and mitigating liability exposure.
Where management's definition of "security" may be thought of as 24/7 armed guard or police officer that is not necessarily true. That is where the disconnect begins. From the standpoint of liability from an injury resulting incident, the outright denial of providing any security will become a slippery slope for the defendant property. The common statement of "We don't provide security." will prove to be the anvil for the hammer during any testimony.
High-density living in apartment communities creates the greatest number of opportunities for crimes, more so than in any other residential setting. That’s why it’s important to learn more about all types of crimes so you can assess any possible threats to your residents. Before you can develop strategies to prevent crime at your community, you must first be aware of the most prominent crimes committed in most apartment communities.

Are you aware that the highest numbers of onsite crimes are committed in the parking areas? These criminal activities include:

Burglary of motor vehicles
Unauthorized use of motor vehicles
Motor vehicle vandalism
These crimes are closely followed by:
Burglary of residences
Robbery (with and without weapons)
Thefts
Other criminal issues that you may encounter include, but are not limited to:
Gang activity
Drug production, sales/distribution and/or use
Vandalism
Sex offender activity
Domestic/family violence
Domestic and international terrorism

We conduct security assessments for apartment complexes, condos, town homes, high rises, and time share property because they all have one thing in common: a target rich environment.
The premises liability exposure to tenants, visitors, or employees is staggering given the nature of the high concentration of people. Property managers and owners truly hold their futures in their own hands when it comes to security. The word "security" is one that would seem to be avoided at all costs because of apartment management's concern about the implied meaning. The truth is that security measures are already in place and acknowledging that appropriately goes a long way towards enhancing the conditions of a property and mitigating liability exposure.
Contact G Woodbury and Associates, Inc. and we will partner with you on creating a security program that will work for you property. Can you afford react when it is too late?

Hotel, Motel, Resort and Casino Security

From the earliest times, thieves and robbers often subjected travelers to attacks. Outside of walled cities and castles travelers could usually find shelter and protection only in wayside inns. From this practice grew the principle that innkeepers were responsible for providing their guests not only food and lodging, but also security and protection against criminal attack.

While the duty of innkeepers to protect their guests is somewhat different today than it once was, lodgings, including gaming casinos often with attached or integrated hotels, still owe a responsibility to their guests and other invitees. And guests continue to be at risk today! Criminals often look at lodgings as attractive targets filled with unsuspecting potential victims, most of whom will leave town soon after being robbed or victimized.

While some cities, counties and states may require specific security measures at lodging properties (or casinos), in those jurisdictions not having such requirements, the legal responsibility owed to their guests by lodging management requires the operator to "exercise reasonable care" in identifying potential crime risks, and to take reasonable measures to prevent those crimes, or to warn guests against them. In general, the greater the likelihood of future crime or injury, the greater the innkeeper's responsibility to defend or warn against it.

Foreseeability
Determining what crime is "reasonably foreseeable" requires a thorough review of the facts in each particular case. Some states use the "prior similar crimes" test, which analyzes previous crimes on the property. How similar the crimes must be and how recent their prior occurrence are matters usually determined by the judge in each case.

Other states use the "totality of the circumstances" standard, which examines other factors in addition to any prior similar crimes on the property. Such factors can include:
Nature and operation of the facility: For example, gaming casinos by their nature invite guests to bring large amounts of cash. Security for a roadside inn has some different considerations than a resort facility that attracts more affluent vacationers, typically to a larger, more spread-out property.
Location of the lodging facility: Some cities have higher crime rates than others, and within most all cities some areas have higher crime rates than the average for that city. Being located in or near one of those "high crime" cities or areas may increase the crime risk to a specific lodging property.
Actual past crimes on the property: These are frequently one of the best means of predicting future crimes, since what has occurred already is likely to recur if changes in security or other conditions haven't been made.
Security problems created by the facility's design or layout, for example, "blind spots," where criminals may loiter or hide, and broken lines of sight that reduce visibility by staff and guests. Both problems may increase specific crime risks.
Alcoholic beverage service on the property: Alcohol not only tends to reduce inhibitions, but it also reduces alertness and wariness — a situation many criminals like to exploit.
Crimes at similar nearby properties. While properties generally compete against each other for business, they should be cooperating in the common fight against crime. The type of crime that occurs on one property usually occurs or impacts all similar nearby properties.
Many other factors may also be applicable to assessing crime foreseeability, and many are specific to a given property and its unique operation or to its surrounding area. A professional security consultant can help identify them.

Reasonable Care Security
Almost any lodging facility, depending on its location and the nature of its operation, should utilize some or all of the following security measures:
Screening and background checks of employees: This is a basic step for all lodging security. Many lodging employees have some access to guestrooms, guests and their belongings, or to confidential information about the guests or about facility security. If the staff is untrustworthy, most other security measures will fail.
Adequate doors and locking hardware — the most basic of precautions. If the guest room door, its frame and its hardware are insufficient to resist moderate force — guests are at risk. Doors should be solid-core wood or metal. Likewise, providing appropriate locking devices is crucial. The standard, especially in larger lodgings, is evolving toward the use of electronic locks that can (and should) be changed immediately when a guest departs or when a key is reported lost. Where traditional metal keys are used, an effective key control and monitoring program is essential. All guestroom entry doors should be equipped with a minimum of two locks, one of them a dead bolt, and should be self-closing and self-locking. Entry doors should be equipped with a wide-angle peephole viewer in the door. A window adjacent to the door that permits viewing of visitors before opening the door will also serve the same purpose. Sliding balcony-type doors should be equipped with secondary locking devices, such as a "charley bar" and a through-the-door pin to prevent lifting the door from its track.
Appropriate levels of lighting for all areas of risk, including parking lots and garages. Many criminals prefer to commit their crimes in darkness, thus avoiding detection, possible identification, and incarceration. See related article: Parking Lot and Garage Security.
Appropriate lines of sight. Shrubs, which often provide concealment or interfere with lines of sight, should be not higher than 18 inches above ground. Tree branches should be trimmed so that they hang not lower than eight feet above the ground. Doing so enhances employees' ability to see, and guests are more able to perceive potential dangers at a distance.
Appropriate security equipment, such as cameras and alarms. Depending on their size, layout, staffing and crime risk, properties may utilize security equipment to supplement manpower. Management should not only select and install appropriate equipment for the tasks, but it must also maintain it and promptly repair it if it fails.
Appropriate staffing for security duties. In small properties, a night clerk monitoring the lobby and front desk may be all that is necessary, although some locations may require bullet-resistant materials for the clerk's protection, depending on the risk of armed robbery. In larger or more spread-out properties, or those with certain crime histories, or which have specific risks such as bar or casino operations , patrols by in-house or contract security officers may be required to monitor activities. By their observable, uniformed presence, such officers also act to deter criminal offenders.
Appropriate training for staff. Security is the responsibility of all staff members; however, they can't perform that duty unless they are trained and made individually responsible for it. This is especially true of those who have specific daily security duties, such as managers and supervisors, front-desk clerks, bellhops and security personnel. But maids, maintenance personnel, servers and others should have clear reporting or other security duties spelled out in their job descriptions. It is important that such duties be spelled out not only in the individual's job description, but, most importantly, also in their performance evaluation. That which is monitored and graded tends to get done!
Appropriate record-keeping. Maintaining records reflecting adherence to security procedures is critical for management to detect deviations from procedures, make corrections, and defend against future claims of negligent security. As one federal agency is fond of saying about training, "If it wasn't documented, it didn't occur." Security incidents should always be documented so that management can review the issues and take appropriate corrective actions.
Periodic risk assessments by management. To know its risks and effectively plan to manage them, management of any facility should periodically assess not only its own crime experience, but also that of similar nearby lodgings (or casinos, or resorts), and any actual or potential changes impacting its operation. For example, is the property attracting more female business travelers or airline flight crews, either of which may be attractive targets for thieves or sexual predators? Or, is the property planning to host a jewelry trade show, or is it hosting increasing numbers of foreign visitors who may be unfamiliar with the local area, its customs, language, and its crime? All these factors and more can change the crime risk for a lodging facility.

Gaming Casinos
Casinos often appear to have dozens or even hundreds of cameras protecting their guests; however, in many cases the majority of those cameras are utilized (by law) only to ensure the integrity of the games, not for general security purposes. As a result some customers may be lulled into a false sense of security. To be effective and reasonable, a casino property must provide security for both the games and its business invitees (customers).

Because of the actual or perceived availability of "easy money," casinos pose special security risks. Additionally, the availability and consumption of large amounts of alcoholic beverages, which in many cases are "free," increase those risks. Not only do alcoholic beverages tend to reduce inhibitions in some people, but they also tend to lessen their alertness and their awareness of potential crime or assault. Being in strange surroundings away from their familiar environment, such customers are more likely to become crime victims.

Casino management should devote adequate attention to securing all areas of the casino and its services. For example, garages and parking lots are favorite stalking areas for robbers, rapists and carjackers. See related article: Parking Lots and Garage Security. Dimly lit walkways to remote housing units, and isolated unmonitored hallways are also favored stalking and assault locations.

Because of the heightened risks and the many venues in which they will have to operate, casino property security officers and guard forces should be screened and trained to a much higher level than most security personnel. They should be certified on any weapons they are authorized by management to carry or use; should be trained in non-lethal force; trained in customer relations; and trained in techniques for verbally defusing situations before they become violent. Casinos, by their very nature, tend to attract criminals. Because of their increased crime risk, guard staffing should be higher in casinos than in stand-alone hotels or nightclubs. Prepared management, coupled with sufficient visible and adequately trained security personnel, can help prevent casinos from becoming a "crime hot spot."

This article cannot hope to cover all aspects of retail lodging and casino security. It was written to provide the reader with a starting point in assessing crime risks to his or her lodging property. It also provides an overview of those basic security measures needed to counter such risks and reduce potential liabilities.

Readers desiring additional information on these or related subjects should contact a qualified professional security consultant and/or their attorney.


Disclaimer:
Based on what the author believes are generally accepted security principles as of the date of its writing, and on data gathered from what are believed to be reliable sources, this article is written for general information purposes only and is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a primary source for making security decisions. Each situation is or can be unique. The author is not an attorney, is not engaged in the practice of law, and is not rendering legal advice. Readers requiring advice about specific security problems or concerns should consult directly with a security professional. The author of this article shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss, liability, or damage alleged to have been caused by the use or application of any information in this article, nor information contained on this or any linked or related web site.


by Ralph Witherspoon, CPP, CSC

Accessing Public Records

We all seem to be a more cautious these days, and with all of the violent events that have occurred in the past few years, there is a certain need to protect ourselves.
The crucial details you are eager to learn are available, more readily now than ever before. Perhaps you are curious about the neighbor who runs back and forth to his car at all hours of the night, or suspicious of a state representative’s background. Though it is unknown to most people, local, state and federal agencies have been storing increasing amounts of public database records online, a process that began in the mid 90's.

Driving records are accessed more frequently, based upon insurance policies and certain jobs. Criminal background and employee checks have without a doubt been performed on a regular basis since 9/11 and the recent Iraq war. Seemingly harmless individuals in the community make the news for acts of violence we never new existed within them. Government officials we elect are not holding true to their claims, as we learn more unsettling facts about their past.

Finding public records

Public records in each state can easily be accessed from your very own home. A computer and internet connection helps you access these public records in two ways: Jurisdictions may post records on government powered sites, making them available for a reasonable price or sometimes even for free. Many states have websites that provide you with almost instantaneous access of all the public records, court records, driving records, and criminal backgrounds of their residents. The second way to accessing public records is through comprehensive databases, where agencies and court officials also negotiate public records to online information compilers and brokers. The latter method is generally more in-depth, as well as easier in saving you time and energy.

Access information while you still can

The freedom of public records is created on the general public’s behalf. Criminal records and background checks were made available for citizens and businesses to stay abreast of the reality of other people, ranging from elected politicians down to modest civilians. As these public records splurged onto the internet, the public has even more opportunity to hold others accountable with documented proof.

However, the act of accessing public records via the internet has recently been debated. These records can expose a great deal of personal information about individuals. Here are a few examples of how public access records attained through the courts may not appear partial.

- Family court battles can be accessed through public access. This could expose sensitive information about children. Heated debates amongst spouses are typically fueled by emotion and may or may not be true.

- Crucial information from high profiled criminal cases can be leaked via public records. They contain documented statements from witnesses and victims that could possibly put them in the risk of danger.

Government and court officials are said to be working diligently on solutions to regulate the access of public files. Limiting the content online is where they wish to start, but there are some public records that should be accessible by the general population for security purposes. When it comes to the security of your family, accessing public records online is a great way to empower yourself with knowledge and information.

Investigative Tools: Body Language and Deception

What if you were investigating the disappearance of an attractive young woman and her husband said, “In the morning I’ve been taking the dog down to the park where she walked. It was our time. It’s a way for me to experience her now. A lot of times I can’t make it very far,” he said, crying. Do you believe him? Are his tears genuine or crocodile? Are you hearing the words of a man suffering an unspeakable loss? If you think he is grieving, you have been deceived. You are not the first person to be deceived by convicted murderer, Scot Peterson. According to the prosecution at his headlining trial, Peterson killed his wife, Laci and their unborn son, Conner. Peterson, who exhibits various psychopathic tendencies, deceived Laci, his girlfriend Amber Freye, his parents and siblings, Laci’s family and a sympathetic public. Detecting Deception As a species we are pitifully poor lie detectors. One would think, since we have been communicating for thousands of years, we would have devised ways to accurately distinguish between a falsehood and the truth. Scientists are interested in knowing which professionals are the most consistent lie detectors. Researchers also want to define the elusive gestures, facial expressions, eye ticks and/or body tension that correctly signal veracity (or the lack thereof). The useful data of roughly 100 years of research on lie detection are meager at best. I can guess who will win the big game on Saturday afternoon about half of the time. Our ability to detect deception is comparable. Are law enforcement officers, psychologists and judges better at detecting lies than the average person? No, they are not. As studies have shown, these professionals are no more accurate than stockbrokers, cab drivers or attorneys. There is one exception—Secret Service agents have scored quite well at reading dishonesty in body language and verbal clues. In law enforcement we call that a clue. Evidently their training prepares them for sniffing out deceivers. Law enforcement officers are continually asked to play Solomon. Unfortunately, some individuals are very talented at creating fantasy and inducing others to accept their fabrications. (Psychopaths are masters of the art.) Officers need tools to tackle these challenging situations. If we could accurately, consistently recognize truthfulness, our multi-billion dollar judicial system would be slashed dramatically. We would not wonder if the O.J. Simpsons and Scott Petersons of the world were guilty. If suspects were innocent they would never become suspects. The Peterson trial cost taxpayers an overwhelming $4 million. The pitiable, overburdened California taxpayers spent twice as much on the O.J. Simpson fiasco. This trial also divided Americans into two opposing camps: the “glove or no glove he is guilty as sin” camp and the “he was framed” camp. The Quest for Truth Diogenes (the Cynic) is not the only misanthrope looking for an honest man. Finding a reliable instrument or system for analyzing the truth/lie continuum has been a priority since man began to gather together in communities. Each civilization has attempted to resolve this quandary. One of our modern attempts is the polygraph, which dates to 1918. Polygraphs are becoming more common as a dimension of pre-employment assessments. Though used in the legal system, polygraph results are not admissible in court as evidence (except under some very specific circumstance). This is primarily because results can vary according to the operator’s experience, training, skill and sensitivity. According to legend, the polygraph is based on an ancient Chinese test of honesty. The accused was given a hand full of rice to hold in his mouth. The theory was, if the subject was guilty his mouth would be dry and he would have difficulty spitting the rice out. However, guilt is not the only emotion that can initiate an interruption of saliva production.

The autonomic system which controls glands can be affected by any stressor, including fear and anxiety. The National Polygraph Training Center for the US military is located at Ft. Jackson in South Carolina. I took a tour of the school and heard a presentation by one of their dedicated, highly trained staff members. The good news is, they are bringing lie detection into the 21st Century. Watch for new developments in that area. During the Cold War, the CIA and other secret squirrel organizations used so-called truth serums to gain information from reluctant spies. Many barbiturates fall in the truth serum category, including scopolamine, sodium amytal and sodium pentothal. The “truth serums” are no longer used by Ray Ban-wearing feds because the drugs proved to be unreliable. In addition, many barbiturates, such as sodium amytal have a high potential for dependence and addiction. Side effects and interactions with other medicines are not uncommon. A clay tablet inscribed in ancient Babylon warned, “When a man lies, he looks down at the ground and moves his big toe in circles.” If this were true every shy boy who grew up in the Midwest would be labeled a prevaricator. Each of us has his or her favored method for detecting veracity. People who stutter, avoid eye contact, protest too much, deny lying and the perennial move favorite have shifty eyes, are likely to be under suspicion. Regrettably, for seekers of truth, there are many perfectly reasonable explanations, other than lying, for these behaviors and for shifty eyes—whatever that means. In August of 2006, Nevada Highway Patrolman Eddie Dutchover used a more idiosyncratic lie detector when he pulled over a wanted polygamist, Warren Steed Jeffs. The officer noticed a furiously pumping carotid artery in Jeff’s neck. Dutchover said he knew he had found some big. Dutchover was correct; Jeffs was on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. “I knew some type of criminal activity was possibly afoot,” Dutchover (who is obviously a Sherlock Holmes fan) said after he stopped Jeffs. Unlike the patrolman, most of us are not skilled at spotting pumping carotid arteries. Conversely, many humans are exceptionally talented at perverting the truth. Body Language as a Lie Detector Humans use many forms of deception. Facial expression is a very complex and easily manipulated form of communication. Facial expression can be quite subtle. Few individuals are accomplished in correctly interpreting deceptive motives or emotions. To complicate matters, facial expression is achieved using infinite combination of musculature, features, skin plasticity and complexion.
Even the skilled Secret Service Agent can be misled. Body Language Test Understanding Body Language Understanding body language is critical for officer safety. There is more to body language than movement. Behavioral studies indicate that individuals establish a personal space circumference, which may change depending on the type of message they are sending and their goal. We establish a comfortable distance for personal interaction and nonverbal (unconsciously) define this as our perimeter. Personal distance is just as much a part of non-verbal communication as a smile or a snarl. By the way, notice if a smile uses all of the face muscles or just a few around the mouth. More muscles equal a more natural, unforced smile. If one is distrustful (i.e., paranoia), his or her space will probably be larger. From basic training law enforcement officers are taught to keep a safe distance from suspects. If we perceive danger or dislike, even if we are not consciously aware of that perception, we will probably increase our protected space. If you find yourself moving back from a suspect you have probably picked up a danger signal at a subconscious level. Pay attention! Consider this: If a suspect moves into your personal space it may well be a sign of aggression or implied intimidation. There are four parts to tactical body language: facial expression, gestures, stance and personal space. Unfortunately, it is a two-way street—while you are watching a suspect’s body language, he or she is simultaneously watching yours. Study your body language in a mirror. What messages do you send? You might be surprised.
Facial Indicators Here are a few obvious facial signals:
nostril flare (arousal, anger) grin (happiness, affiliation, contentment); grimace (fear);lip compression (anger, high emotion, frustration);canine snarl (disgust); lip pout (sadness, submission, uncertainty, seduction). Sneer (contempt, intimidation. Frown (anger, sadness, concentration); brow raise (intensity, curious, slight surprise). Big pupils (arousal, fight-or-flight, drugs). Small pupils (rest-and-digest,); direct gaze (affiliate, threaten, deception); gaze-down (submission, deception, distraction). (Adapted from Givens, 1998-202, Center for Nonverbal Studies) Remember, you are not the only person who studies body language. Misleading body language can be used to do just that—mislead. Look at the individual’s entire presentation when in doubt. Incongruity may be an attempt to conceal or mislead. As a Dallas cop told me, the truth is consistent. When the spoken word is at cross purposes with body language, normally it is safer to believe the body because body language is more likely to be unconscious. Body Language Quiz
Are you skilled at reading body language? We will see. Take the quiz
1. You have asked a suspect a question and he looks up and to the left. This might mean a. He is focusing on your body language b. He is looking inside himself for an imaginative answer. c. He has a headache d. He is trying to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
2. This body language tool, when used, will make you appear warm, friendly, open and confident. a. Arms unfolded b. Feet about ten inches apart c. Nodding your head d. Smile
3. If a suspect is making little eye contact, it might mean a. He is shy b. He doesn’t want anyone to read emotion in his eyes c. He is sleepy d. He does not like you
4. If a suspect is wringing her hands as you talk, it might mean a. She is nervous b. Her hands are dirty c. She is late for an appointment d. She is open and outgoing
5. You are talking to a suspect and you lean toward him and nod occasionally. It probably means a. You are near sighted b. You are self-centered c. You are paying close attention d. You are having trouble hearing
6. If a suspect has her arms folded and legs crossed, it might mean a. She is cold b. She is feeling romantic c. She wants to understand the person with whom she is speaking d. She is being defensive
7. An officers standing tall with chest out and head high, might mean a. Improper training b. Aggression c. Confidence d. A poorly fitted vest
8. One angles in toward a person if a. He is being aggressive b. He thinks the other person is sexy c. He is trying to read emotion d. He thinks she is lying and wants to see if she is blinking
9. You are talking to a suspect and she is filtering her answers through her hands. It might mean a. She is trying to hide bad breath b. She is lying c. She is self-conscious d. She is fearful
10. We have such a powerful brain circuitry for the facial expression that a. We see faces where there are non (i.e., moon) b. We often misread expressions c. We get tired of reading expression d. We smile and glare just to confuse suspects 11. You stop a man driving a new SUV in Nevada and his carotid artery is pumping. It might mean a. He is wanted by the FBI b. He has been exercising c. It is the end of your shift, so you really don’ care d. He is stressed because he anticipates a speeding ticket 12. You have asked a suspect a question and he looks up and to the right. This might mean a. He wants to appear helpful b. He does not understand your question and he is stalling c. He is trying to remember his attorney’s name d. He is recalling the truthful answer to your question 13. You ask a suspect if he killed his rich maiden aunt. He says, “No, I did not.” This may mean a. He is very precise in his use of English b. He is grief stricken about his poor Auntie c. He is lying d. It means nothing Good Job! Correct answers 1)d, 2) d, 4) a, 5) c, 6) d, 7)a, 8)b, 9)b, 10) a, 11) a, 12) c and d, 13) c Here is more information for questions 12 and 13. 12. In both c and d he is looking inside for information stored there. 13. If a suspect uses a contraction, such as I didn’t do it, in answer to your question, “Did you kill your maiden aunt?” he is more likely to be telling the truth than if he were to say, “No, I did not.” Contractions seem to be more trustworthy. Scoring your test: Give yourself one point for every correct answer. You can give yourself more points, but it will make scoring confusing.
What does my score mean?
Score 1 – 4 I am afraid that you might find surviving on the mean streets more challenging than other officers. You are more likely to miss a body language signal that precedes an aggressive act. Also, you are more likely to misjudge a suspect ’s intention and truthfulness. You may want to learn more about body language by visiting the Non-Verbal Communication Web site; it is quite interesting. To be safe, stay close to someone who scored 10 or more on the test.
Score 5 – 8 You are doing relatively well and can probably communicate and understand body language communication with little effort. You may want to visit the reference site listed above to increase your store of knowledge. What does it mean when someone looks up and to the right while taking your picture with his/her cell phone? See, I told you there was more to learn.
Score 9 – 13 You should be working for the Secret Service. You are unusually knowledgeable about body language. This knowledge will give you a distinct advantage in understanding your fellow creatures. Let me warn you, some of the nice officers from the first scoring group are going to be looking for you. Conclusion Would you like to know how to consistently identify dishonesty? According to body language expert Robert Phipps, “Darting eyes, palms not visible, shifting from one foot to another, hand covering mouth or finger tugging at the ear are clues.” Regrettably, as you know these indicators are not always accurate. You should keep researching and learning about body language and lie detection. The more you know the safer you are, and in law enforcement that is your prime directive, stay safe.
I suggest that you read Frogs into Princes: Neuro Linguistic Programming. Richard Bandler and John Grinder. I read it several years ago and through it is not an easy read it contains some fascinating information for understanding yourself and others. Also the site listed under the first scoring category above is a treasure trove of useful information. Begin your own research study. Watch your fellow beings and make note of their behavior under various circumstances.

Internet: Check Them Out Before Getting Too Close

The Internet has become one of the latest places to meet people. Whether you are looking for a casual friend or a romantic interlude, it can all be found on the worldwide web. Places like Facebook and Myspace give you a forum to express yourself to others, and the number of matchmaker sites these days is overwhelming.
If you have ever spent any time meeting and greeting on the web, you know that most people are not exactly what they make themselves out to be. Some of them have gone so far as to create an entire alternate identity.
Despite the dangers, the rewards of meeting online can be great. You have the opportunity to get to know others from all over the world. You make new and interesting friends from places you may never have visited. It provides an excellent opportunity for us to share our cultures and open our minds to new possibilities.
Who is really behind that screen name?
When you make new friends online, how do you know if they are trustworthy? Can you really afford to get close to them, or are Internet friendships best kept very casual?
As with any new relationship, go slowly and proceed with caution. Keep the topics of conversation neutral and safe – never discuss anything personal with someone you do not know. Be instantly suspicious if your new friend begins questioning you about your finances.
If you have been conversing with someone for a while and feel a connection, you may decide you want to take the friendship a step further. You may begin to share more personal details of your life, or you may begin making plans to meet each other in person. Take smart measures to protect yourself
Before taking this step towards increased intimacy, be sure to reasonably protect yourself. First of all, try to validate your new friend’s identity and ensure they really are who they say they are. Search records from the Department of Motor Vehicles in your friend’s area and see if you can locate a license or identification card that matches the name, date of birth, physical description, and address of your new friend. If you cannot find a matching motor vehicle record, try voter registration records.
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to conduct an online background check of your friend. Any court documents from judgments, divorces, or lawsuits should contain some sort of identifying information you can verify. Criminal history checks will normally provide you with a date of birth and physical description, including any major scars or tattoos.
There are also specialized background check companies, such as Net Detective, who for a small fee, give you the ability to search all of the above records and more. You must do a little sleuth work of your own, though, and find out some important key identifiers from your new friend so you will know when you have found him or her.
Meeting on the Internet can be exciting. You must just ensure you go about it prudently, and protect yourself until you have solid facts reinforcing your ability to put your trust into your new friend.

Beware of Stalkers

In 2000 federal Department of Justice preformed a study that one woman in 12 will be stalked during her lifetime. This figure is startling when compared to the current FBI Statistics that 1 in 3,000 will be raped. The sad truth is many of these women are familiar with their stalkers. Stalking is gender neutral but the vast majority of stalkers are male. Many are also in denial that this person would ever do anything to put them in harms way. Some don’t even believe it until the investigator shows them proof, whether in a video or information that will shed light on theirsituation. In order to better understand if you are a victim of stalking I have included 5 tips to watch out for.
1. Loitering around your neighborhood or business - Do you see the same guy around your home or workplace? Someone that doesn’t belong there. Maybe they park next to you or you are constantly seeing them at a store, yousee them at the gym or you happen to bump into them at a parking lot. Look there may very well be a coincidence, but there is no reason for you to see the same person at all the different places you frequent.
provides an extensive line of security and surveillance products for private investigators including: spy equipment, audio recorders, bug detectors, cameras, GPS tracking devices, listening devices, night vision, and self defense products. Use coupon code PIAD007 to get a 10% discount, plus free ground shipping.
2. Someone watching you - This is different than a “lurker”. The watcher will keep an eye on you from a distance. They will gather personal information from people who are close to you. I have seen people actually hire a private investigator to do the nasty deed for them. They will get private details from you. As far as women go they also have a sixth sense when it comes to someone watching from distance. It’s a sickening feeling; if you are a woman you know what I am talking about. You cannot put your finger on it, but you just feel it.3. Repeated calls - Not from someone you are seeing that’s just checking in on you but from someone you know casually. Why are they constantly calling you? Odd behavior. The scary ones, are when they just hang up, or are silent on the other end. Threatening to call the police may be a good tactic, but more often than not if they are psycho then it may instigate a situation you are not ready to handle.
Private Investigators use investigation software to conduct online background investigations, search public records, find missing persons, and more.
4. Manipulation. The stalker is looking for some way to interact with you. They may have contact by using legal measure like frivolous lawsuits. Some could be on the range of ridiculous. Some may even threaten suicide if you don’t return their affection. If you are being manipulated with this sort of behavior call the police.
5. Cyberstalking - These are the ones that send you several emails a day, or private messages when youare at work. Some will even send you links to inappropriate website. Some may only know the victim from their online profile. The good news is most law enforcement agencies have cyber-crime unit that are prepared to deal with those types of stalkers. I am sure you have seen one or two shows on TV where this has become apparent in today’s society. I am not saying don’t participate in online social networking but please make sure all your personal information is protected.Pervasive Stalking is often subtle in fact; the stalker is almost betting that his actions are merely demonstrations of affection. If you are experiencing or are put into any of the above aforementioned situations the best thing to do is contact your local police immediately. Keep a record a daily journal of the different situations. Dates, times, and places you have seen this person this will give you more credibility when you are talking to law enforcement.
Author Name: Gabriella

Free Consultation

Call now for your free consultation.
We hire only those individuals with prior law enforcement experience and those can think outside of the box. This type of investigator provides our clients with the best results. As a client you will recieve personal, one on one interaction with your investigator during the entire investigation.
Beware of the “Instant” Background CheckMost of the “Background Check” web sites that you will find on the internet are nothing more than sites that automatically search through FREE public record sources or buy old outdated information and resell it to you at 20 times the cost.
What they do NOT do is provide you with an actual background check. This is particularly true for the “Instant background check” companies.
The results they give you:Fast but meaningless data or data that is comprised of information you likely already knew. Ironically, they forget to tell you that there is little or no chance that their background check will find anything meaningful.
The companies that sell this type of information are not licensed private investigators and cannot give you the accuracy you want.
•We are Private Investigators, not a database search company•We provide years of professional experience and judgment•We GUARANTEE to meet your deadlines, not ours•We tell you where all of the information we provide you came from•We have an actual investigator speak with you about your background check•Our background checks are done by investigators, not databases. Tell us about your concerns and we focus on what you know about and care about most.•We provide a detailed report of our findings•If you find that you need more than just a background check, we are a full service private detective agency able to bring the full assets of our agency, with nationwide resources, to bear for you.

Body Guards

Recent events expose the vulnerabilities that organizations and executives face both at home and in foreign markets. The increased potential for acts of violence has caused companies worldwide to evaluate their policies and security plans. From workplace violence issues relating to layoffs, terminations and disgruntled employees to dangerous or unstable environments for corporate travelers,We have the solutions to help ensure their safety.
Protective Services consist of several key elements designed to ensure the safety of your people, property and assets.
Threat Assessment and Risk Analysis Security Surveys and Planning Advance Teams Highly Trained Protection Professionals Transportation and Equipment Coordination Agency Liaison Worldwide Coverage Workplace Violence Hostile Terminations Plant Closings Specific Threats Transportation Escort Foreign Travel Special Events Shareholder / Board Meetings
Threat Assessment and Risk Analysis Our consultants work with your organization to conduct a risk analysis to help evaluate the scope of concerns. The analysis includes identification of assets/personnel to be protected, and a threat evaluation of the degree of risk or danger to an employee or operation from acts of violence or terrorism. Depending upon circumstances, this could include additional individuals such as family members. Other factors such as political risk, criminal or terrorist activities may be considered during this process.
Security Surveys and Planning A comprehensive physical security survey helps to identify strengths and potential vulnerabilities within offices, production facilities, warehouses and residences of key personnel. Recommendations are provided to secure areas or access that could be considered potential problems. If travel is included in the security plan, factors such as behavior patterns, travel routes, accommodations, and transportation can be evaluated. These surveys become a key component in the overall security planning process. A comprehensive plan providing cost-effective recommendations to implement security strategies, policies and procedures, executive/personnel protection, training, and emergency planning can be provided.
Advance Teams Activities or events including high-profile executives sometimes require an “Advance Team” to conduct on-site inspections, evaluate risks, and implement security measures. Our security professionals can coordinate travel routes, accommodations, communications, and establish contingency countermeasures in case of a breach of security thresholds or other incidents.
Highly Trained Protection Professionals Our agents have extensive backgrounds in law enforcement and have received specialized training in firearms, law, social sciences, sensitivity and dignitary protection. We provide unparalleled service, quality and experience with the resources of a multi-billion dollar organization to satisfy whatever level of security and protection you may require. Our highly competent and confidential agents provide armed or unarmed protection, and have additional training in evasive driving and anti-kidnapping techniques.
Agency Liaison Every good plan relies on good communication. We act as a liaison to local & federal law enforcement, fire departments, intelligence & state departments, medical personnel & agencies, and military forces where necessary by coordinating pertinent information and activities to help make the overall plan run smoothly.

Types of Investigations.

We handle all types of investigations. We have very competitive rates. We are not the cheapest but the value of hiring us over similar priced agencies is incredibly high. Please call for a custom quote. 1.888.877.5749 or 810.891.6447
Our Background Investigations Services Include: Criminal History County State Federal Educational Verification Prior Employment Verification Credit History Social Security Assets and much more!
Surveillance:Cheating or InfidelityWorkers CompensationLoss Prevention or TheftBusiness SurveillanceEmployee SurveillanceActivity Check and much more!

What We Do!

G Woodbury & Associates assist individuals, businesses, and attorneys by finding and analyzing information. We connect small clues to solve mysteries or to uncover facts about legal, financial, or personal matters. We offer many services, including executive, corporate, and celebrity protection; pre-employment verification; and individual background profiles. Some investigate computer crimes, such as identity theft, harassing e-mails, and illegal downloading of copyrighted material. We also provide assistance in criminal and civil liability cases, insurance claims and fraud, child custody and protection cases, missing persons cases, and premarital screening. Our investigators are sometimes hired to investigate individuals to prove or disprove infidelity.
Our investigators have many methods to choose from when determining the facts in a case. Much of their work is done using a computer, recovering deleted e-mails and documents, for example. They may also perform computer database searches or work with someone who does. Computers allow investigators to quickly obtain huge amounts of information such as a subject’s prior arrests, convictions, and civil legal judgments; telephone numbers; motor vehicle registrations; association and club memberships; and even photographs.
Our investigators also perform various other types of surveillance or searches. To verify facts, such as an individual’s income or place of employment, they may make phone calls or visit a subject’s workplace. In other cases, especially those involving missing persons and background checks, investigators interview people to gather as much information as possible about an individual. Sometimes investigators go undercover, pretending to be someone else to get information or to observe a subject inconspicuously.
Our investigators are trained to perform physical surveillance, which may be high-tech or low-tech. They may observe a site, such as the home of a subject, from an inconspicuous location or a vehicle. Using photographic and video cameras, binoculars, and cell phones, detectives often use surveillance to gather information on an individual; this can be quite time consuming.
The duties of our investigators depend on the needs of their clients. In cases that involve fraudulent workers’ compensation claims, for example, investigators may carry out long-term covert observation of a person suspected of fraud. If an investigator observes him or her performing an activity that contradicts injuries stated in a worker’s compensation claim, the investigator would take video or still photographs to document the activity and report it to the client.
We must be mindful of the law when conducting investigations. They keep up with Federal, State, and local legislation, such as privacy laws and other legal issues affecting their work. The legality of certain methods may be unclear, and our nvestigators must make judgment calls when deciding how to pursue a case. They must also know how to collect evidence properly so that they do not compromise its admissibility in court.
Our investigators are often specialized. Those who focus on intellectual property theft, for example, investigate and document acts of piracy, help clients stop illegal activity, and provide intelligence for prosecution and civil action. Other investigators specialize in developing financial profiles and asset searches. Their reports reflect information gathered through interviews, investigation and surveillance, and research, including review of public documents.
Investigators generally work alone, but they sometimes work with others during surveillance or when following a subject in order to avoid detection by the subject. Some of the work involves confrontation, so the job can be stressful and dangerous. Some situations call for the investigator to be armed, such as certain bodyguard assignments for corporate or celebrity clients. In most cases, however, a weapon is not necessary because the purpose of the work is gathering information and not law enforcement or criminal apprehension. Owners of investigative agencies have the added stress of having to deal with demanding and sometimes distraught clients.
Private detectives and investigators often work irregular hours because of the need to conduct surveillance and contact people who are not available during normal working hours. Early morning, evening, weekend, and holiday work is common.