Those interested in investigative services may be curious about what sets a private investigator apart from a police detective. There is some confusion around what private investigators can do or what a detective may be allowed to do, especially when it comes to wearing badges. When you need investigative services, learning the difference between a PI and a detective will help you choose the best professional for your unique case.
Licensing For Private Investigators
Instead of wearing law enforcement badges, private investigators need to be licensed in their state and may carry identification cards or badges. They don’t wear their badges around, but may carry a business card or identification of licensing when they meet with a client. There are many licensing requirements in different states, and they will vary depending on the area of the country you are in. Movies and TV have caused citizens to be confused about detectives and PIs alike because the media often portrays them as people who don’t need to follow rules and chase the bad guys through dangerous situations. PIs and detectives do have to follow legal rules and often aren’t running into burning buildings to resolve a case.
Why Detectives Use Badges
Badges for detectives signal authority and help them be quickly identified by crime scene personnel and other law enforcement officers. These badges signify the oath they have taken and help people on the street know that they are a trustworthy member of law enforcement. Different badge styles can also signal different things, like rank and agency. The wearing of badges is governed by state or local regulations, which is why PIs are not allowed to wear them, since the state does not employ them.
Comparing Detectives And Private Investigators
Detectives and private investigators have many similarities and often use similar techniques to get to the bottom of a case. Besides the difference in badges and identification, these two investigators have many offerings that set them apart from one another.
When it comes to solving cases, PIs and detectives use surveillance to solve fraud or criminal acts, but detectives typically experience fewer restrictions than PIs. Because detectives work with law enforcement, they have full access to any equipment and surveillance types that PIs may not have clearance to use.
Detectives and PIs both collaborate with police, but detectives do it more often and in an official capacity. Detectives and police officers work for a precinct and report to the same higher-level chiefs. While they still need to follow the law, detectives can often use other resources that aren’t available to private investigators.
Some other comparisons between PIs and detectives include:
- PIs are not allowed to carry a firearm, while detectives are often issued one by the law enforcement agency they work for
- Detectives can make arrests in a case, while PIs have no authority to detain or arrest those they are investigating.
- PIs have less access to databases and lab information
- Detectives have full jurisdiction within their agency, while PIs are limited to legal boundaries, not a police jurisdiction.
- Different lengths of training and educational courses. Varies by state, and detectives need experience in the field before they can achieve the rank of detective.
Who Is Better For My Case?
Depending on the severity of your case, working with law enforcement is often a better choice for criminal or homicidal cases. Private investigators are often hired when someone is not satisfied with the work of their local police and detectives. PIs can take on more specialized cases like infidelity, financial fraud, or missing people that a detective may not have the bandwidth for. If your case will need an arrest or you suspect someone will need to serve time, access to police resources and a detective may be beneficial.
Private Investigators In St. George, UT
St. George Private Investigations offers surveillance, infidelity investigations, and financial digging that can help those who have been wronged. Our team looks for all signs of deception or fraud to help you get the best result possible. Investigators take complex cases and put all of our focus on them, allowing them to be solved quickly and efficiently. With detailed analyses of documents, saving you time in a court setting, and clear communication from our team, you will have confidence in going about business operations or daily life.