Welcome to Counterpoint Detective Agency. This is a little history about the owner and lead investigator, and how Counterpoint Detective Agency evolved to become one of the leading investigative services in the inland northwest and to service our local community.
My Story
Counterpoint Detective Agency has been in business since 2005. We have conducted various services over the years, with success and satisfied clients. Background of our lead investigator has studied law through Spokane Community College with a bachelor's degree in Paralegal studies and law at Gonzaga University. Also, has 22 years of military services and attached to the 1st/19th Special Forces Group, Ft. Lewis in Tacoma, WA. Prior owner of Idaho Detective Agency and closed the firm down to re-enlist to serve again overseas during the war. Once fully retired in 2004 to enroll in college to study law and to reopen counterpoint detective agency and security consulting.
To be successful one must fully commit to service, that service was to my Country and now to my clients. Understanding the meaning of honor, loyalty, selfless services, respect, duty, personal courage and integrity. These are the code of ethics taught in the US Army and it holds true in both the investigative and security business, in which we provide to our clients and without ethics, we are nothing.
As a native Idahoan, growing up in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho and attended Elementary school through high school and in 1982 joined and served honorably for 12 years active duty in the US Army. Served and additional 10 years in the Army Reserves and National Guard, retiring in 2004. Receiving an Honorably discharge and returning home and attending college, graduating with honors. After college decided to rebuild the my private detective an security agency now located in Post Falls, Idaho.
Additional background:
In 1971 I joined a local Judo Kan martial arts school at the age of 6 years old. Not long after I received my Jr. Black Belt, the Instructor had closed his school and moved to Arizona. In 1978, I joined another martial arts school (Tang Soo Do). It was a Korean style of martial arts and received my ranking, When I decided to Join the Army and graduated basic training and my AIT school, I was then stationed in South Korea which was a great journey because of my martial arts training I got to study Tae Kwan Do and Hapkido. While studying I received orders and shipped back to the United States in California which I had the Opportunity to finish and receive my ranking in both of those styles.
When I finished my 10 years of my military service after serving in Operation Desert Shield and Storm, I went home and joined the Army Reserves. I continued my martial arts training in various others styles such as Bujin-rye, Isshin-ryu, and trecehampas arnis (FMA). Over the years I had taught martial arts and in 2014 I was inducted into the United States Marital Arts Hall of Fame with the Golden Life Award with over 40 years of Continuous training and instructing in the Arts.
Investigative Services:
If you don't see what you're looking for please feel free to contact our office.
Criminal defense investigators play a crucial role in the legal process by assisting attorneys in building a strong defense for their clients. They conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze information to uncover facts that may support the defendant's case. Their work is essential for ensuring a fair trial and upholding the rights of the accused.
Key Responsibilities of Criminal Defense Investigators:
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Evidence Gathering:
Examining crime scenes, reviewing police reports, analyzing documents, and collecting physical evidence (e.g., fingerprints, DNA). They may also consult with experts and conduct independent forensic examinations.
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Case Strategy Development:
Collaborating with attorneys to develop defense strategies by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case and finding alternative explanations for events.
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Fact-Finding and Analysis:
Investigating the circumstances of the case, looking for inconsistencies, and piecing together the events to build a strong defense.
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Maintaining Objectivity:
Providing a neutral perspective and ensuring that all relevant facts are considered, even those that may contradict the initial narrative.
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Witness Investigation:
Locating, interviewing, and gathering information on both prosecution and defense witnesses. This includes conducting background checks and searching for potential biases or inconsistencies in their testimonies.
The Importance of Criminal Defense Investigators:
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Counterbalance to Prosecution:
Criminal defense investigators help to balance the scales of justice by ensuring that the prosecution's case is thoroughly examined and that all available evidence is considered.
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Protecting Constitutional Rights:
They play a vital role in ensuring that defendants' constitutional rights are protected during the legal process.
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Reducing Wrongful Convictions:
By uncovering overlooked evidence and challenging the prosecution's narrative, they help to prevent wrongful convictions.
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Their work is essential for ensuring that individuals receive a fair trial and that the truth is revealed.
Civil Defense Investigations:
A civil defense investigator, also known as a legal investigator, focuses on gathering facts and evidence for civil cases, which can include investigations for insurance claims, personal injury, or other civil disputes. They may also assist in internal investigations for companies, and in some cases, support white-collar criminal defense matters. While some overlap exists with criminal investigations, the focus and legal framework differ significantly.
Key aspects of a civil defense investigator's role: Gathering Evidence:.
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This involves interviewing witnesses, collecting documents, and conducting surveillance to build a case for a civil lawsuit.
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They work closely with lawyers to prepare for trials, including identifying and interviewing potential witnesses, and gathering relevant information.
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In addition to civil litigation, civil defense investigators may also conduct internal investigations for companies, helping to uncover wrongdoing and advise on appropriate actions.
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They may be involved in investigations related to financial fraud, regulatory violations, or other white-collar crimes, often working alongside criminal defense attorneys.
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Compliance and Risk Management:
Their work can help organizations identify and mitigate risks by investigating potential compliance issues and suggesting preventative measures.
Distinguishing civil from criminal investigations:
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Focus:
Civil investigations center on legal disputes between individuals or organizations, while criminal investigations focus on violations of the law that may lead to prosecution.
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Burden of Proof:
In civil cases, the burden of proof is typically a "preponderance of the evidence," meaning it's more likely than not that something happened. In criminal cases, the burden is "beyond a reasonable doubt," a much higher standard.
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Investigative Techniques:
While some investigative techniques are the same, criminal investigations often require specialized knowledge of law enforcement procedures, forensic science, and the criminal justice system.
Insurance Investigations:
An insurance investigator plays a critical role in the insurance industry by examining suspicious claims to determine their legitimacy. They work to uncover fraudulent activities, assess damages, and gather evidence to support or refute claims.
What do insurance investigators do?
Insurance investigators' primary responsibilities include:
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Conducting Investigations: Investigating claims by analyzing and researching all related information and data.
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Gathering Evidence: Collecting physical evidence, such as photographs, video footage, witness statements, medical records, and police reports, to support their findings.
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Conducting Interviews: Interviewing claimants, witnesses, law enforcement officials, and others involved in a claim to gather information and determine its validity.
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Reviewing Records: Examining documents, including insurance policies, financial statements, and other relevant records, to identify potential fraud indicators and inconsistencies.
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Analyzing Data: Reviewing and analyzing gathered information, including digital evidence and social media activity, to identify potential fraud schemes.
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Preparing Reports: Documenting their findings and presenting detailed reports to insurance companies, potentially collaborating with legal professionals or law enforcement on high-stake cases.
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Ensuring Compliance: Staying updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends to ensure investigations comply with best practices and legal requirements.
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Potentially Testifying in Court: In cases of legal proceedings, testifying as an expert witness regarding their findings.
Types of cases investigated
Insurance investigators handle a variety of cases across different insurance types, including:
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Property damage claims: Assessing damage from events like fires or car accidents.
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Workers' compensation claims: Investigating suspicious claims of work-related injuries or illness.
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Personal injury claims: Verifying the legitimacy of injuries claimed in accidents.
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Health insurance fraud: Uncovering fake medical claims, forged prescriptions, and billing fraud.
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Auto insurance fraud: Investigating staged accidents, exaggerated claims, and stolen vehicles.
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Life insurance fraud: Examining cases involving suspicious deaths or falsified beneficiary claims.
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Cyber insurance fraud: Tracking digital footprints and analyzing data breaches in cyber insurance claims.
Skills and qualifications
To be a successful insurance investigator, individuals typically need a blend of skills and qualifications:
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Educational Background: While some entry-level positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, insurance, finance, or a related field.
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Relevant Experience: Prior experience in law enforcement, private investigation, or insurance claims is highly beneficial.
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Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze complex information, identify patterns, and detect inconsistencies in claims and evidence is crucial.
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Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail is essential to spot subtle clues that might indicate fraudulent activity.
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Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are necessary for conducting effective interviews, building rapport with stakeholders, and presenting clear reports.
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Investigative Skills: Expertise in interviewing techniques, evidence collection, and analyzing information effectively is vital.
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Knowledge of Laws and Regulations: Familiarity with insurance laws, privacy laws, and ethical considerations is necessary to conduct investigations lawfully and ethically.
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Technology Skills: Proficiency in using computers, software applications, databases, and surveillance equipment for research, data analysis, and evidence gathering is increasingly important, particularly in cases involving digital evidence.
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Certifications: Professional certifications, such as Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator (CIFI) or Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), can enhance job prospects and demonstrate commitment to the field.
Asset Investigations:
An Asset Investigator, also known as an Asset Protection Investigator, is a professional who specializes in locating and verifying assets for various purposes, including legal cases, financial investigations, and fraud prevention. They utilize various investigative techniques and tools to uncover hidden assets, ensuring fairness in settlements, and preventing financial loss.
Key Responsibilities and Activities:
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Asset investigators meticulously trace assets, including bank accounts, real estate, investments, and other valuable properties, to determine their location and ownership.
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They conduct in-depth financial investigations to identify suspicious transactions, hidden income streams, and potential fraud.
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In today's digital age, asset investigators explore online activities, including cryptocurrency holdings, digital business ventures, and intellectual property rights, to uncover hidden assets.
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They perform background checks to gather information on individuals or entities, including their financial history, assets, and liabilities.
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Asset investigators play a vital role in preventing fraud by identifying potential risks, uncovering fraudulent activities, and implementing preventative measures.
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They provide crucial support in legal cases, such as divorce settlements, debt recovery, and probate disputes, by uncovering hidden assets and ensuring fair outcomes.
Reasons for Hiring an Asset Investigator:
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To locate hidden assets during divorce proceedings, ensuring a fair division of marital property.
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To identify assets that can be used to satisfy outstanding debts or judgments.
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To uncover fraudulent activities, such as embezzlement, financial misrepresentation, or insider trading.
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To locate and verify assets for estate planning purposes, ensuring proper distribution of assets.
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To assess the financial health of a company or individual before entering into a business deal.
Surveillance:
A surveillance investigator gathers information about a person or subject using various techniques and tools, often to support legal proceedings or investigations. They may conduct physical surveillance, use electronic surveillance equipment, and conduct interviews to gather evidence and build cases.
Key Responsibilities and Activities:
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Conducting Surveillance: This can involve physical surveillance (observing and documenting), using technology like cameras, drones, or GPS trackers, and even employing electronic surveillance methods.
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Gathering Evidence: Collecting information and evidence to support legal cases, insurance claims, or other investigations.
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Background Checks: Researching an individual's background, including their history, activities, and associations.
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Drafting Reports: Creating detailed reports of findings, including evidence and analysis.
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Utilizing Technology: Proficiency with surveillance equipment, data management systems, and other relevant technologies.
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Adhering to Legal and Ethical Guidelines: Operating within legal boundaries and respecting privacy concerns.
Domestic/Child Custody Investigations:
A domestic investigator, also known as a civil investigator, is a private investigator specializing in personal and family-related matters. They gather evidence and information for legal proceedings, personal disputes, or to simply uncover the truth in delicate situations.
Key aspects of a domestic investigator's role:
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They perform background checks on individuals involved in personal matters, such as potential nannies or caregivers.
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Discretion and Confidentiality:
Domestic investigators prioritize discretion and confidentiality in their work, which is crucial in sensitive domestic cases.
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Legal Support: The evidence they gather can be used in legal proceedings, such as divorce cases, child custody battles, or fraud investigations.
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Technology and Techniques: They utilize various tools and techniques, including surveillance equipment, computer forensics, and other investigative methods, to gather information efficiently.
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Evidence Gathering: They collect information, conduct surveillance, and gather evidence related to infidelity, child custody, child support, background checks, and other domestic issues.
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Surveillance: They may conduct surveillance to monitor a person's activities, gather evidence of wrongdoing, or verify information.
Common types of domestic investigations:
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Infidelity Investigations: Investigating suspicions of cheating in a relationship.
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Child Custody Disputes: Gathering evidence related to a parent's fitness or conduct for custody decisions.
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Child Support Investigations: Investigating income and assets for child support calculations.
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Background Checks: Verifying information about potential employees, caregivers, or partners.
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Domestic Violence Investigations: Documenting abuse and gathering evidence for legal action.