Hiring A Costa Rica P.I.

The ins and outs of Hiring a Costa Rica P.I.

Understanding that hiring a P.I. (private investigator) , anywhere is more by chance than design. That is, the need to hire a P.I. is spontaneous and is a reaction that needs attention now. Hiring a Costa Rica P.I. is a challenge because the ones that are available on a google search are misleading. When I am contacted for an assignment, I make sure you are informed on the scope and nature of the proof you seek. For example, all photographs or videos must be authenticated by the person that took them. The rules of procedure in all courts in the United States require this in order that it will overcome a hearsay objection. Hiring a Costa Rica P.I. without verifying that person can enter the United States you just lost your money.

Things to look for when browsing

First make sure that the P.I. is physically present in Costa Rica. Several websites that are displayed are not physically present. Some are from Arizona or Nicaragua. They “farm” out your case to a local who may or may not be qualified. Additionally, they don’t allow you to know the identity of the person doing the investigation. Not to mention informing you if they can appear in court in the United States if necessary. Such agencies are throwing a wide net in hopes of capturing your business without informing you of consequences.

Take the time to talk to the investigator

By this I mean communicating with the actual person doing the investigation here in Costa Rica. Take the time to tell him exactly what you want to accomplish. Ask the P.I. to provide you with a written contract. Make sure that the money you send goes through a well known bank. If the P.I. listens to you, That they explain in detail what is going to likely happen during the investigation. Answers your questions without being vague or ambiguous. These will assist you when hiring a Costa Rica P.I.

 

 

Hiring a Costa Rica Private Detective

What you need to know when hiring a costa rica private detective

Often I have clients that call and are doing so for the first time. Many are confused and anxious about hiring a Costa Rica private detective to watch a loved one. So, what do you need to know when hiring a Costa Rica Private investigator? When searching the web, you see a number of people advertising private investigative services here in Costa Rica. First thing you can do is dismiss the advertisements as the majority of those as they overwhelmingly are not physically located here.

 

They rely on third party contractors who may or may not be qualified to do the work you need done. Additionally, you as the client, is being further removed from the service agent, and have no clue what they are doing. It’s hard enough to speak with a person you don’t know about a very personal and sensitive situation. Some of these third party contractors have been known to play both ends against the other.

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What are you looking for in Costa Rica?

Looking for something in Costa Rica

Just what are you looking for in Costa Rica? Trying to locate someone? Trying to check up on a loved one? Perhaps, finding a piece of real estate to purchase. Whatever the case we are here and are ready to help in any way that we can. Some of the things that have changed dramatically over the past 2 years due to the covid pandemic. Such as people moving to live with family due to no work for example.Currently, there are numerous schemes and scams going on with regard to visitors coming to Costa Rica that are unaware of the changes that have occurred during this time. Remember always that you are in a third world country. Be prudent and cautious.

 

Changes came from top level in Government

Regardless of what you are looking for in Costa Rica, inquiries and the manner to obtain them has been impacted by the changes brought on as a result of Covid 19. According to the University of Costa Rica all of the information concerning the pandemic and the subsequent changes has been orchestrated by to level government.

Most who seek locating someone here are unaware that Costa Rica has no street addresses. It is all descriptive. Additionally there are no protocols in place that update the locations as they are listed in the various registries. Some of the locations could be one to twenty years old. The older the listing of an address the higher likelihood of landmarks changes increases with time. Contacting the U.S. Embassy here to locate someone is uneventful as they will refer you yo the local law enforcement agencies.

Nevertheless

We are here to help you.Our firm has accumulated years of experience and knowledge about this beautiful country. I know what can be reasonable expectations on obtaining the information you seek. We also are a law firm and can help you with many things others can’t.

Expectations of a Costa Rica private investigation

Reasonable expectations of a Costa Rica private  investigation

In any relationship, there are two sides to every story. What should be your expectations of a Costa Rica investigation?  An investigator may consider an absurd request of a client, could stem from from simple lack of communication.  During the process.on giving facts which not only satisfy the case but to satisfy the client may confusing. A private investigators work is in a results-driven market.  It is here  these heightened beliefs which drive some investigators to always bring their respective “A-game” to each assignment. However, this may also lead some investigators to worry in those rare occasions where your results may fall short of your goals, (as well as the client’s interest  future engagements).

Private investigations are not an exact science

As with most who provide services, we do not always have the luxury of hand-selecting our clients.  In some instances we are faced with certain clients who can be more of a burden than a blessing.  Nothing is more frustrating to an investigator than a client who tries and manage an investigation by intruding or withholding information. This alone could result in less than an optimal result 

Communication assist with clear expectations of a Costa Rica Private Investigation

Accepting any assignment, it is critical to communicate to the client the importance of sharing as much information as possible. I always verbally and write communications the are integral to the inquiry. From the beginning  (no matter how minute the details may be) it may prove to be vital during the course of the investigation. It is equally as important to “tone-down” any preconceived notions of what they may expect,as a result of your efforts. The most effective way is to communicate to your client not only what information is potentially attainable, but more importantly, what may not be within the confines of the law.  It is important during the course of your investigation, to keep the client apprised with a brief email or phone call so that they know you are on top of their situation.

No Guarantees

It is important that the client understand that there are no guarantees for this type of work. The nature  and scope of the investigation industry does not allow for guarantees. Many clients are under the impression that if the information they seek is not available or doesn’t exist they should not have to pay. Thus, it is essential that the need to communicate and at times educate the clients as to the limitations that are present in any type of investigation.

 

 

 

 

Sky Line of San Jose Costa Rica

Costa Rica Private Investigation

Local Costa Rica Private Investigator

Cody L Gear and Associates is a Costa Rica private investigation company. We have a network that reaches every Latin and South American country. Our group of network licensed investigators includes professionals who are familiar with Costa Rica, its culture, and its geography. They also  have many contacts who prove valuable for conducting investigations Costa Rica. Our private investigators are highly trained professionals with years of experience and training. All of our investigations are discreet and confidential.

Costa Rica Private Investigator

Cody L Gear and Associates in Costa Rica is a private investigation agency run from our corporate headquarters in San Jose, Costa Rica. Costa Rica private investigators are not regulated by any government body. There is no requirement for licensure. Therefore, you have to exercise caution in selecting a private investigator. Many con artists and scammers will pose as investigators to steal your money or vital information.

With our firm you can rest assured that your investigator is experienced and reputable. Our investigators are often licensed in many jurisdictions within the continental United States. Some that are from countries abroad have licenses. Whether you are a resident of Costa Rica in need of an investigation or somewhere else, we are here to help. If you are a citizen of another country and you believe your investigation will lead you to Costa Rica, we can help.

Private Investigators in Costa Rica

Costa Rica reports a population of approximately 5 million people, and its official language is Spanish. The country is bordered by Nicaragua on the north and Panama on the south. Costa Rica is surrounded by the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea. The primary export is coffee, its government and economy have proven to be consistently stable. More stable  than nearly every other Latin American country over the past several years.

In large part this is because Costa Rica has no military. There has not been any noteworthy political turmoil. Since the early 1940’s, following an open rebellion that The Government abolished the standing army and made Costa Rica a democracy. Despite political stability, however, Costa Rica js a developing country, and poverty levels remains fairly high. This is evidenced by a high crime rate particularly in property theft. Such crimes , particularly homicide and “smash and grab” type crimes appear the to be the most prevalent. The most prolific criminal enterprise in the country is its narcotics trade, specifically cocaine.ica is

Costa Rica Private Investigator Restrictions

Conducting private investigations in Costa Rica, all private investigators must comply with local and Costa Rica federal laws.

  • Performing Investigations in Costa Rica – In order to work in Costa Rica, the investigator must possess proof of permanent residency. Possess written authorization from the government or be a citizen of Costa Rica. Websites that hold themselves out to have their network of investigators in Costa Rica is misleading. 
  • Impersonate Law Enforcement – Private Investigators in Costa Rica cannot carry a badge, carry a firearm, wear a uniform. They can’t say anything that might imply that the private investigator is a police officer or an agent of the Costa Rica Government.
  • Make an Arrest – Private Investigators in Costa Rica cannot legally make an arrest. If there is evidence that requires an arrest should be made, the investigator should contact law enforcement.
  • Wiretapping – Wiretapping is illegal, the law in Costa Rica parallels that of most jurisdictions in the United states. Private Investigators cannot tap a phone. They cannot place GPS monitors on cars or use devices which reveals the location of a person.
  • Trespassing – Private Investigators cannot break and enter onto private property.

Locating a Missing Person in Costa Rica

Are you attempting to locate a missing person you believe to be somewhere in Costa Rica? Are you located in Costa Rica but are trying to locate someone outside of Costa Rica? Locating a missing person is not easy, especially when the police are often limited on available time/resources they can dedicate towards a missing person investigation. If you need help locating a missing person in Costa Rica and feel there is no one that can help you then contact our agency. We have been providing locate missing person investigations throughout the Latin and South America since 1990.

Learn more about Locating a missing person in Costa Rica and see how our trained private investigators can help you solve your missing person investigation.

Costa Rica Criminal Background Check

Do you need a Costa Rica criminal background investigation on someone? Outside of Costa Rica and need someone to provide you a local criminal background check? First and foremost, obtaining criminal records here can only be done through the courts. Anyone advertising criminal checks without an attorney is just plain being dishonest.

Background investigations are extremely useful and can provide someone with a lot of detailed information about their personal history. Don’t get involved with someone who may not be a good person to get into a relationship with. Learn more about Costa Rica Background Checks by contacting us today. One of our experienced private investigators will help you determine the best avenue to obtain the information you seek.

Cheating Spouse Investigation in Costa Rica

Has a loved one aroused your suspicion about infidelity when they are in Costa Rica? Are you located outside Costa Rica but believe your spouse is cheating on you when traveling here? There are many reasons as to why someone may think their spouse is cheating, but don’t let mixed emotions cause you to make uninformed decisions.

Before figuring out what to do next, take some steps to learn the facts. We have been providing cheating spouse investigation services in Costa Rica and around throughout the Americas since 1990. Learn more about how we can help you with your investigation by contacting us and speaking with a case agent. Our investigators will help create a unique action plan to help give you the piece of mind you deserve. Don’t accept the idea you cannot or the investigation company you are communicating will not identify the investigator and allow you to converse with them.

Things to know when coming to Costa Rica

When you decide to come here, there are some things to know coming to Costa Rica. Most who come here do very little research. They come based on advertisements instead of facts. Bear in mind that nothing gets done here quickly. The time frame here is “manana”. For example, accessibility to hospitals or other emergency services. Particularly, those services in the far reaches of Costa Rica like Golfito.

Few give any thought to relationships they may form. The consequences of not knowing who they are dealing with can be fatal. Whether it be a personal or business relationship you need to know who they are dealing with. Relationships, regardless of origin, seem to be better if they are vetted and entered into with both eyes opened. Especially if she is here and you’re not.

Other things to know when coming to Costa Rica

We are offering an evaluation of your planned trip. Since we are here and have been here for over fifteen years, we know the “do’s and don’ts” we can tell you of known or potential problems with your itinerary. Every year we handle dozens of cases involving personal relationships. Things to be considered when coming to Costa Rica and getting involved in long distance relationship for example. I know it is difficult when you are 2,000 miles away and begin to have doubts as the other persons loyalty and truthfulness. The only way you are going to find out is to watch them.

The only way to avoid a bad situation not related to a relationship, is to know the area before you go there. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, could not be more appropriate. Whether it’s a relationship or just a trip to get away, you need to know what you’re walking into.

These precautionary measures you can take now can help you avoid the unforeseen problem you face if you don’t have the facts. We offer a free consultation and you can reach anytime at 321-218-9209. Also, visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/picostarica

What is going on in Costa Rica?

So, do you really know what is going on in costa rica?

You owe it to yourself and your peace of mind to learn why your loved one is in Costa Rica and what is going on in Costa Rica. You also need to know what they are up to. Especially places like Jaco. Jaco has several “watering holes” which are packed nightly with young, beautiful and available women. These women do not match the stereotyped images of hookers in the U.S. They are well dressed, clean, polite and very entertaining.

 

Most of these women range in age from 18 to 35. They are aggressively friendly and will engage a man as soon as he sits at the bar. By their appearance and personality they present a temptation most men cannot say no to. Every week we investigate one to three cases where the wife or girlfriend of a man visiting Costa Rica wants to know what is going on in Costa Rica

Most of the cases we investigate result in the proof that the guy is having a weekend with one of these women. Some get so attracted they wound up committing to a financial assistance to these women even if they themselves are not even here. Usually, the wife or girlfriend in the states stumbles across these activities by accident. Some have an intuitive feeling that something is amiss in the relationship. Seeking information based on these types of intuitive feelings is prudent.

If you are experiencing marital problems, and suspect your spouse/partner is having an affair, you may feel confused and concerned about yourself and your family’s future. Our firm can work with you to gather the evidence you need to protect you and your children’s best interests. There are a number of dating sites that will gladly take your money for setting up a date. But these are far from certain things as most of the women on these sites have no intention to leave Costa Rica.

 

Scam Alert For Costa Rica

New Scams in costa rica

This is a new scam alert for Costa Rica. The scammers are calling ex-pats posing as workers from the Embassy. This scam alert for Costa Rica has been documented by the U.S. Embassy. The scammers start the conversation with the assertion that the Embassy is updating its records on American citizens.  The scammers then ask for personal information to verify and update the records. If you didn’t know already, the U.S. calls no one.

We are here to assist you in understanding the threat and to lend assistance to those who may have been victimized. As the leading private investigator in Costa Rica, we try and keep you abreast of recent scams.

 

Scams in Costa Rica Rising

This scam alert for Costa Rica, according to the U.S. Embassy is they do not call anyone to ask for this type of information. According to the Embassy, “ The United States Embassy reminds American citizens that Embassy staff will not initiate calls to U.S. citizens. “

ACTIONS TO TAKE:

Another case recently centered around the purchase of a car that was posted on Facebook. The buyer identified himself as an American living in Guanacaste and sent the seller a copy of his passport. Unbeknownst to the buyer, when the seller saw the name she recognized it from her friends list on her Facebook account. She sent him an instant message telling him she didn’t realize it was him who wanted to buy the car. He told her he had not inquired about a car and in fact was in southeast Asia.

Legal

Getting Things Done in Costa Rica

Getting things Done in Costa Rica

Why is it so hard to accomplish things in Costa Rica? I’ve encountered this and I have a better understanding of the reason. Although Costa Rica is third-world, as you can see with businesses such as Starbucks and PF Chang’s, it is amazing how much they have progressed in terms of service and creativity. You should keep in mind that the government employs most people here. This may be one reason why you’ve found getting things done an uphill battle.

Why is it so hard to accomplish things in Costa Rica? I know there are many reasons why getting things done sometimes takes longer than usual, but sometimes can be accomplished faster than expected.  Only with paying a “propina” (tip) to the bureaucrat will make it happen faster.

What makes getting things done in Costa Rica so difficult?

Driving around the streets of San Jose is a chaotic experience. Roads are in disarray with high traffic and gridlock, creating a frustration for drivers. The government has failed to privatise road management and infrastructure development effectively, leading to this problem plaguing Costa Rica’s transportation system.

For the country, it means reduced productivity and higher costs through importing goods or products produced elsewhere. There are several business opportunities within the ICT sector that will enable private investors to take advantage of the opportunity in building new products that will help alleviate this problem and do so for cost-effectively.

Example of getting things done in Costa Rica

Let me give you an example. You want to find the owner of a piece of property. In the US, it is relatively easy to do. Simply visit your county tax office or property appraiser and within ten minutes you have all the information you need. But in Costa Rica, the process is much more complex. You mail in a request for ownership and once it’s approved (or denied) you can then file for an official transfer of ownership.

The registry holds public records – police reports, court records, and more. It serves as a one-stop shop to you the information you need — but that doesn’t mean that it’s easy to use. Online searches are often difficult, and in person visits are time consuming and inefficient.

The time you spend waiting for a record is an opportunity wasted. You should be able to get the information you need with ease and on your own schedule.

After all that there is more to getting things done

Once the property has been identified, determining the owner is the next obstacle that has to be overcome. If the property is owned by anyone other than a Costa Rica National, it will be in the form of a S.A. (Sociedad Anonomia). This S.A. similar  to a Nevada Corporation in the States, where the individual owner is not listed. For years, the Costa Rica Government has required this as a vehicle to purchase real property. Thereby promoting and fostering all manner of corrupt activities.

If you want something done and done as quickly as possible, you need to retain professionals who are here and know the system and how it works. Even with such help it can take time as nothing seems to move here with speed, everything is, “manana”. If you choose to do it your self, remember that getting things done in Costa Rica is time consuming and slow. It will try your patience and your wallet.

 

Avoiding Fraud in Costa Rica

Identifying fraud in Costa Rica

Avoiding fraud in Costa Rica is really simple. I have written this information to assist you avoiding fraud in Costa Rica. I have put together a list of methods used here in Costa Rica to rip you off. As a result sammers will approach you through letters, a phone call, or via email. Cyber-crime is a principal priority risk for US residents and businesses. Because scammers will try to steal your property, identity or tap into your bank accounts or business to steal assets or money.

 

 

Typical scams to be aware of 

Avoiding Fraud in Costa Rica requires you to be aware of the methods scammers employ. In Costa Rica. Most attacks take place through email or social networks. I know no one is safe from hackers or scammers. Banks and even the government have been victims of such attacks. Because once you are a victim of this theft, it will be very hard to recover your information. As a result of your information being “out”, there’s no bringing it back.

Going After your life savings

The best defense I know against fraud comes with being able to recognize the various different types of financial schemes that exist. Because I have firsthand knowledge of these methods, I will share them with you.

High-return or ‘risk-free’ investments

High-risk/high-reward investments like penny stocks, options, and futures. I am suggesting, you exercise extreme caution when making any investment decisions. I have learned one way to protect yourself against fraud is to invest only in products or services that you understand and trust.  The United States Government has several scam warnings available to assist you in avoiding scams..

How do they operate here

Costa Rica scammers, passing themselves off as brokers and investment advisers, recommend unsuitable products. Products that don’t meet the investment objectives or financial situations of investors. Inappropriate recommendations might occur when a broker sells speculative, high- risk investments such as options, futures or penny stocks. Experience teaches me, individuals who are near retirement or are retired and have a low-risk tolerance.

Pyramid schemes

A pyramid scheme, for instance, the fraudsters promote multi-level entry opportunities that require an initial “investment”. In reality there is  little chance for profit except for those at the top of the pyramid.

‘Ponzi’ schemes

These are a type of illegal pyramid scheme named after Charles Ponzi. He fooled thousands of New England residents into investing in a postage stamp speculation scheme back in the 1920s. As a result, Ponzi thought he could take advantage of differences between U.S. and foreign currencies used to buy and sell international mail coupons. Costa Rica had it’s own form of a Ponzi scheme which was carried out by the Villalobos Brothers. The brothers scammed millions from unsuspecting investors. Villalobos investors he could provide a 40 percent return in just 90 days compared with 5 percent for bank savings accounts.

Results of a Ponzi scam

As a result Charles Ponzi successfully in getting funds from investors. This resulted in Charles bilking in $1 million during one three-hour period. Although a few early investors were paid off to make the scheme look legitimate. A subsequent investigation found that Charles had only purchased about $30 worth of the international mail coupons. Today, the Ponzi scheme continues to work on the “rob-Peter-to-pay-Paul” principle. As money from new investors is used to pay off earlier investors until the whole scheme collapses.

Promissory notes

A promissory note is a type of debt that is similar to a loan or I.O.U. and is used by a company to raise money. Typically, an investor agrees to loan money to the company for a set period of time. In exchange, the company promises to pay the investor a fixed return on the investment, typically principal plus interest. While promissory notes can be legitimate investments, those that are marketed broadly to individuals often turn out to be worthless. Most established companies have borrowing relationships with financial institutions.  Therefore this type of transaction among individuals is rare. Individual investors should exercise extreme caution with this type of investment.

Internet investment fraud

Internet investment fraud is similar to other fraud perpetrated over the phone or through the mail. Fraudsters use a variety of Internet tools, including online newsletters, spam or chat rooms to spread false information. They also may build a sophisticated Web page to make their scam appear legitimate. The Internet has made offshore scams very easy to implement and difficult to police because the perpetrators often reside outside of the U.S.

Affinity fraud

This fraud refers to investment scams that prey upon members of certain groups. For example religious or ethnic communities, the elderly or professional groups. Deceivers who promote affinity scams frequently are—or pretend to be—members of the group. They enlist respected community or religious leaders from within the group to spread the word about the scheme. Thus, by convincing people that a fraudulent investment is legitimate and worthwhile. Often, the leaders themselves become unwitting victims of the fraudster’s scheme.

Want to

For more information on fraud in costa Rica see “Different types of Fraud in Costa Rica, or call 321-218-9209.