Surveillance investigators conduct a variety of investigations using observation techniques. This person’s job is to keep an eye on the investigation’s target while remaining undetectable. In order to get to the heart of an investigation and document its progress, a surveillance investigator may conduct relevant research and draft reports. Surveillance investigators may be called to testify in court about their findings.
Surveillance investigators frequently use their observation skills to investigate a subject. He could also use a variety of surveillance equipment to accomplish this. If a suspicious spouse suspects his spouse of cheating, he may hire a surveillance investigator to follow her. The investigator may observe her movements and keep track of the people she associates with. If he notices suspicious activity, he may photograph or videotape it to document it, then report his findings to the person who hired him.
A surveillance investigator may also work for a company, investigating cases such as insurance fraud. For example, he might be asked to observe someone who is seeking compensation for an injury that occurred at his workplace. In this capacity, he might try to gather evidence that the subject was not injured in the way he claimed. For example, if he is able to photograph or videotape his subject moving furniture into his home when he is supposed to be unable to do so, it can have a significant impact on a workers’ compensation claim.
Surveillance investigators are frequently depicted in thrilling television and film scenes involving high-speed chases and heroic confrontations. However, this job is usually the polar opposite of that. Stakeout techniques are commonly used by surveillance investigators to observe their targets. A person in this position usually tries to avoid confrontations because they can be dangerous and jeopardize the entire investigation. High-speed chases aren’t a typical part of this job because an individual in this field works to stay hidden and obey the law.
A person who works in this field is usually required to report what he discovers. Creating written documentation of his efforts, as well as providing photographs, videos, or other evidence, is frequently required. In some cases, a surveillance investigator may be called upon to testify in court about his findings or submit documentation for use as evidence.