Private Investigator (Level 3) Course

Course Structure

The Level 3 Private Investigator course is divided into four comprehensive modules:

Module 1:

The first module of the Private Investigator course identifies methods of evidence gathering and assessment of evidence. It provides the individual with an introduction to forensic evidence and what constitutes crime in legal terms. It further introduces investigation techniques and helps the student to understand what constitutes evidence in the eyes of the law. It explains which elements of police procedure relate to investigators and allows the student to be able to match relevant laws to crimes committed.

• Identify different types of crime
• Understand the different types of evidence and why it is important
• Explain the correct legislation the police use for categorising crimes
• Identify different kinds of evidence
• Understand what is meant by the term evidence
• Explain factors which relate to criminal offences
• Explain terminology linked to forensic investigations
• Identify the correct procedures processes linked to investigating crime scenes
• Identify best techniques for collecting and preserving evidence at a crime scene
• Identify the materials, methods and procedures used to collect different forms of evidence
• Identify the methods and processes for storing evidence
• Recognise the value of different types of evidence to an investigation

Module 2:

The second module focuses on taking statements, and handling interview situations when interviewing witnesses and others. It also details the legal ramifications of statements as evidence, and considers the ethical implications of types of questioning which may be used by private investigators.

• Explain the value of statements and the need for accurate and legally obtained statements
• Systematically acquire information from witnesses, victims and suspects
• Identify the correct questions to ask in specific circumstances
• Identify ethical considerations for the private investigator
• Identify the main parts of a good investigation
• Identify the key questions to ask during investigations
• Write statements in a useful/appropriate relevant way
• Develop techniques to improve information-gathering during interviews
• Identify how statements should be prepared for the UK court system, i.e. the format, the content, the structure, the conventions of statements
• Identify the legal responsibility concerning statements as evidence
• Demonstrate knowledge of how a statement should be completed
• Explain the legal ramifications of providing false evidence in a statement.

Module 3:

The third module provides background to work undertaken by those working in the investigative industry. The module covers material concerning recent thinking on criminals and UK approaches to crime. It gives the student a background to the possible causes of crimes; approaches include: social, biological and psychological thinking on crime and criminals. The module also seeks to provide a perspective for looking at criminal behaviour and possible causes and solutions to crime and criminality on both an individual and societal level and provides essential background material to the investigative work of the private investigator.

• What is crime
• Crime, definitions and theories
• A historical background to crime
• Crime as violation of human rights
• Crime as social construction
• Theories of crime
• Physical characteristics of crime
• Psychological approaches
• Biological theories of crime and criminals
• White collar crime

Module 4:

The fourth module deals with issues of process serving and surveillance. The module also covers all aspects of surveillance including covert surveillance, and planning and preparation for surveillance. The material covers still and video photography and other technical issues relating to mobile, foot and static surveillance.

• Identify the key methods of surveillance
• Discuss the qualities of a good surveillance operative
• Explain the key concerns when planning surveillance
• Identify the correct and legal way of gathering evidence in a manner that will be accepted by the courts.
• Recognise the key communication skills needed to ensure group surveillance works
• Explain types of monitoring equipment required for surveillance
• Define best practice for foot surveillance
• Identify the best practice for individual and group surveillance
• Identify mobile surveillance methods
• Identify methodologies for different and difficult surveillance situations and potentially difficult areas
• Identify different methods of static surveillance
• Explain important considerations for surveillance on people, buildings and objects
• Demonstrate a knowledge of how photography can be used effectively in surveillance
• Identify methods of counter-surveillance
• Demonstrate knowledge of methods of technical surveillance.

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