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History of Private Investigators; from Vidocq & Pinkerton to Investigation Agencies Today

For those who like history or the origins of modern services, then private investigators have a fascinating beginning. Advanced Private Investigator & Security of Miami, FL would like to reveal the past and share when private investigators first began and how this service has helped people in modern times. To learn about the first private investigators, we must go back in time to 1833 in France.

First Private Investigator

A French soldier named Eugene Francois Vidocq was one the who founded private investigation and is known as the first private investigator. Vidocq was also a criminal and privateer. He was also well known for hiring ex-cons. Due to his past, law enforcement agencies attempted many times to shut down Vidocq’s agency. They suggested Vidocq took bribes while investigating an embezzlement case. Prosecutors wanted to sentence Vidocq to five years in prison with an additional fine of 3,000 Francs, which was excessive for the time. However, the case was appealed and the court released him. Why was Vidocq released? Many wondered, but in the end it was because we was an excellent investigator. Vidocq had many notes and even introduced record keeping, criminology, and ballistics for criminal investigations. Vidocq was credited for his innovative ideas for criminal investigating. Vidocq even was the first investigator to use plaster casts for shoe impressions which is still used even today. Vidocq also created indelible (nonerasable) ink and unalterable bond paper that he strictly used through his printing company. After Vidocq established his private investigating agency, private investigators acted as police and handled police matters, and often the cases law enforcement didn’t take. Many private investigators began handling labor or employee issues. The wealthy feared a French Revolution and/or freedom of the labor industry and needed help controlling workers. Unfortunately some private investigators were nothing but glorified mercenaries that resolved many matters with force, which even occurred in foreign countries.

History of Private Investigators in America

As the industry of investigation grew, it didn’t take much time for the first American private investigators to take root. Allen Pinkerton, which established Pinkerton National Detective Agency in 1850, was the earliest security guard and detective agency in America. Pinkerton became world famous for foiling a plot to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln. Later Pinkerton professionals were also assigned to track some of the legendary outlaws such as Jesse James, members of the Wild Bunch, Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid, and the Reno Bothers. Pinkerton professionals was also hired to guard various factories during the 19th century labor strike.

What is a Private Investigator Allowed to Do?

Throughout time various private investigation agencies grew. Laws and boundaries were set up to help provide guidelines for private investigators and services rendered. Private investigators are still widely used today to help investigate cases and assist law enforcement. Private investigators are able to provide answers and to help those who require investigating services that law enforcement has no means or reason for investigating. Private investigators can help with investigations, perform background checks, look for missing persons and much more. Some companies can even provide security services.

Professional Private Investigator & Security Services in Greater Miami, Sunny Isles, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Weston, Plantation & Miami Gardens Florida

Advanced Private Investigator & Security of Miami FL hoped you enjoyed the early history of private investigators. If you require our services, contact Advanced Private Investigator & Security of Miami, FL today.

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