Setting Expectations for Costa Rica Infidelity Cases

With the high season just around the corner, we here in Costa will see an increase in inquiries about infidelity investigations. I feel that one important part of taking on a new client is setting expectations, for Costa Rica infidelity cases. Among such is including for cost, process, outcome, and findings. Understanding the process, such as associated costs and the time frame for gathering relevant information. I find that by setting expectations for Costa Rica infidelity cases, it is best to provide the client with sufficient information prior to commencement in order to avoid misunderstandings in the future.

The investigative process utilized in these types of cases is an art, not a science, it’s an art. For this reason, clients have to be flexible as these situations are fluid and change rapidly.

Recommendations from a Costa Rica Investigator

The final results are not always what a client wants or thinks they should be.

I have had cases where we followed people off and on for months and never caught them cheating. When you report this back to the client there are some that simply think you didn’t do your job. We always tell people, just because they may exhibit signs of cheating it doesn’t always mean they are and we can’t catch people that aren’t cheating, cheating!

The cost

Some people think you can catch a cheating partner in 1 hour and an investigation will only cost $100.00. Rarely do we encounter circumstances that allowed us to catch a cheater within the first moment of beginning surveillance. Frequently, it’s difficult to get people to understand that when people cheat they don’t always meet with their lover daily or even every week. So sometimes it takes a little time to discover what they are doing. Time is money! Remember a cheater never performs on cue!

Results to show they are or are not cheating. I am not in the business of manufacturing fabrications to show someone is cheating. I have actually had clients that have requested that I set the target up with a hooker and capture the encounter on video. Obviously, I am not in the extortion business either.

Disclosing to the client

Sometimes they are just wrong, and there is nothing going on. PI work is 50% luck and 50% skill. I have to be in the right place at the right time and have the knowledge to do a proper and professional job once the situation presents itself. I also emphasize as I said earlier, targets of surveillance never perform on cue. It is important once the surveillance is undertaken that the client maintains a demeanor that is consistent with their normal behavior so as to not alert or raise suspicion of the target

Depending on the signs that raised suspicion and habits 2-3 weeks. I explain our steps to provide results depending on the questionable behavior. Optional steps moving forward after confirmation such as attorneys or counseling. The majority of surveillance here is 3-6 days. It is expensive and a budget ranging from $1,200-$5,000 should be expected. Additionally, there will be expenses that are not covered in the professional fees.

I generally tell my clients that it’s difficult to uncover infidelity with less than 10 hours of surveillance. It’s possible, but not likely. I suggest a minimum of 20 hours of surveillance. Assuming I’m only using one investigator on the case, that will cost a client around $3000. A thorough Costa Rica infidelity investigation will run a client a minimum of $3000. We like to have a consultation with the client prior to the surveillance in order to fine-tune the details of the case (surveillance schedule, physical descriptions, photographs, etc). I cannot guarantee results and we take a full retainer upfront.

Timeline 1-3 days of surveillance.

No guarantees that we will find anything. Will not induce the subject into making contact. Provide them with our hourly rate and mileage rates.

I let my clients know what to expect upfront so that they do not get unreasonable expectations. Cost is one of the first things we discuss.

Every client is given a realistic set of expectations as to what my inquiry can legally engage in

That is in some cases when they ask for “off the radar” information; it is explained that in the course of conducting an investigation it serves the client’s best interest in utilizing a legally sound practice and methods. This allows all information harvested to be admissible and shared between both parties.

Cold Case Missing Persons in Costa Rica

Cold Case Missing Persons in Costa Rica Private Investigations

Barbara a Czech Republic citizen, has been missing from her residence in Tamarindo since December 5, 2010. According to sources close to Struncova, she attended a party with friends on the night of Dec. 4. She returned home around 1 a.m. on the morning of Dec. 5. She has not been seen since.On the night of Dec. 4, Struncova, 31, went to a party with several friends who were visiting from the Czech Republic. She was accompanied by her boyfriend, U.S. citizen Bill Ulmer. Ulmer who sources say returned home early from the party. He did so because he was frustrated by his inability to communicate with the Czech visitors. Struncova’s friends report that around 1 a.m. on the morning of Dec. 5, she returned to her residence. Barbara lived with Ulmer and four other roommates.

“At 1 a.m. that night we watched her walk inside the house,” said a source close to Struncova who asked to remain anonymous. “By 7 a.m. that morning, Dec. 5, Bill woke up and told us that Barbara had left with her friends. Alleging that, in the middle of the night she had gone to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica.”

In the days following her disappearance, worried members of Struncova’s family contacted her friends in Tamarindo. The last time family members heard from her was Dec. 4.

Struncova’s belongings are still in her Tamarindo residence.

2. Cold Case Missing Persons in Costa Rica

When the family of Kim Paris contacted me it had been almost 11 days since her disappearance. She had allegedly left a note at the hotel (Latitude 10) where she and her husband Gabriel Orozco were resident managers. Kim allegedly told Gabriel she was going shopping. During my investigation, there were unverified spottings of Kim after the day of her disappearance. Several things about this disappearance made me question the stories I had been told. The fact of the matter was if Kim was the victim of a crime there are almost limitless places to dispose of the body and cover any potential evidence and or witnesses. Lacking resources and assistance it was challenging to search the area and the locals were of no assistance.

Kim Paris is a dual citizen of France and Canada, moved to Santa Teresa from Montreal at the age of 33. She arrived with her boyfriend, Gabriel Orozco, whom she married in Costa Rica in January 2010.

The reason that I am posting this information again is in hopes that if someone stumbles across skeletal remains they remember this young woman who disappeared and has yet to be found. Also, this is in the same general area as the disappearance of Barbara mentioned above.

Costa Rica and “Mickey Finn”

Coming to Costa Rica and “Mickey Finn”

A social media working girl had a lot more on her mind than friendship, Costa Rica investigators say.

A Costa Rica woman woman prowled for victims on the social networks and then arranged for an intimate rendezvous according to Costa Rica Private Investigator.

Our client as well as several others, I imagine took the bait. The woman was a “mickey finn” scammer who quickly spiked the drink of her new male victim and then clean out the apartment or house. The Judicial Investigating Organization (OIJ) suspects she obtained at least $15,000 in jewelry in one case. OIJ suspects the same woman of committing the sane crime against another man where she took almost $10,000 in cash. There are many stories similar to this one. Our reason for mentioning this is due to the Costa Rica culture being one that is given to stealing. Some say it’s competition but in my boo its stealing.

Costa Rica and “Mickey Finn”

Many who come here in search of establishing a relationship with a women are susceptible to this type of scam. The problem here is that these women are using some type of drug to incapacitate the victim in order to carry out their theft. Many of the men who visit here are older and many have health conditions that places them in peril if they are drugged with the wrong type of medication. By taking up an ad on a person that is offering an intimate relationship, that no one knows, is like a crap shoot. You may or may not survive it.

News reports that OIJ Agents said they located some of the items when they searched the woman’s home in Desamparados Tuesday. When OIJ agents searched the woman’s home in Desamparados Tuesday, agents said they located some of the items. She faces charges of aggravated robbery and attempted murder.

This is another example in a long line of examples of scammers who prey upon the unsuspecting. More often than not the the victim is an expat. Most victims say they were overcomed by sudden drowsiness after taking one or more women to their apartment.

Costa RIca Private Investigator Log

Costa Rica Private Investigator Log; July 2019

The Costa Rica Private Investigator log for the month of July saw several cases that came to us from all over the United States. Below is a few of the cases we handled in August.

These are a few of the cases we handled for the month of July. If you or if you know someone who need private investigator services in Costa Rica call or visit us at on our blog.

Costa Rica Private Investigator log for July 3; Domestic case involving a suspected cheating husband who had booked a vacation with his “buddies” in Jaco. Told his wife that they were going to fish for Marlin. Wife suspicious as his trips to Costa Rica were becoming more frequent and she didn’t like some of his “buddies”. Surveillance began at the airport and wound up in Jaco at the Beatle Bar which has been recently remodeled and opened for business again. The group went to the Cochal, a favorite watering hole for partying and shopping for the weekend girlfriend. Sure enough the target wasn’t at the Cochal for more than an hour when he latched onto a stunning professional working girl probably 25 years of age and he was off to the hotel. Whole thing captured on video.

Costa Rica Private Investigator log for July 5;

Bigamy/domestic case where in an American man had married a Colombian woman in the States and was going through a nasty divorce. He knew she had spent time in Costa Rica and wanted her background checked. A due diligence check revealed that the Colombian was married to a Costa Rica National. She had been married to him for over eight years and was married to the Costa Rica National at the time she married the American.

Costa Rica Private Investigator log for July 9;

Land Fraud case involving a fraud in the inducement from a developer that collected money from investors on a beachfront condominium development in Coco (Northwest Costa Rica). Developer took money from investor after convincing investor that his money was going for an unimpeded ocean view from the 5th floor of a 10 floor condominium in Coco. Due diligence revealed that no such development had been approved on a one story model. In Costa Rica all developments must have licenses and be approved by the government. Investors money gone but we were able to get a lien on the property in order for the investor to recapture from his loss.

Costa Rica Private Investigator log for July 17;

Lottery scam reported by an elderly woman in Florida. This lady is 87 years old and was contacted by someone purporting to be an agent with the United States Department of Consumer Affairs. (No such organization) The agent told her she had won 2nd prize in a lottery and that in order for her to collect her check of $987,000 she needed to send $5,000 to Jose Gonzalez via Western Union in Costa Rica to cover the cost and expenses in transferring the winnings to her. He gave her a telephone number with a 305 exchange and when she called it a person answered the phone “United States Department of Consumer Affairs, how may help you”. She asked for the agent was transferred to the same person who called her. He assured her this was a legit. She sent the $5,000 and another $87,000 over a three month period. This is a SCAM. If you win the lottery no one will ever call you! I referred this nice lady to the U.S. Postal service who has agents in the United States who are working with the Costa Rica authorities to bust these miserable and despicable scammers.

These are a few of the cases we handled for the month of July. If you or if you know someone who need private investigator services in Costa Rica call or visit us at our blog.

Are you having doubts about what you are being told? Do you have that gut feeling that something is not right? Call us on Whatsapp for a free consultation.

Dealing with a Cheating Spouse in Costa Rica

I have many clients that ask me what do I do when dealing with a cheating spouse in Costa Rica? Have you just recently learned or recently become suspicious that your spouse is or has been cheating on you? If you have concrete proof, you may want to confront him or her right away. Of course, it is your decision to do so, but there are a few important points that you will want to take into consideration first. After all, calling out a cheating spouse is a major step, but is it one that you are ready to take? Has he all of a sudden take a real interest in travelling to Costa Rica alone? Is he being untruthful with you as to his destinations, hotel and transportation? All of these are signs of infidelity which you need answers.

When looking to confront a cheating spouse, it is important to know that you can do so at just about any point in time. If you are ready to confront your spouse now, go ahead and do so. If you would prefer to wait, like until you are ready to start divorce proceedings, be sure to wait. Although it may be difficult to stand the sight of your significant other, it is important to proceed with caution. It is always best to have proof in the form of a photo or video to show them in the event of denial. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words.

One of the best times to confront your spouse is when you have concrete proof. Did you seem them cheating? Were they having \*\*\* or just out to dinner? What about documentation? Do you have pictures or video of your spouse having inappropriate actions with another? Do you have credit card receipts or cell phone bills that point towards an affair? If you do, you may be ready to confront your spouse. Unfortunately, too many men and women make the mistake of jumping the gun.

Although there is a good chance that you may choose to forgive your cheating spouse, you may also wish to terminate the relationship. Until you are ready to start divorce proceedings, it is a wise idea to not say anything. Many men and women feel comfort and peace of mind when they are first able to get their life in order before they spring a divorce on their husband or wife.

Another sign that you may be ready to confront your cheating spouse is if you are ready to leave the home if you have to. With that being said, it is important to not leave in certain circumstances. Is the home in your name? Do you help to pay the bills or do you pay most of them? Do you have children? If so, you may want to refrain from uprooting your whole life. Instead, make your cheating spouse leave. Just know that they may refuse to do so right away.

As previously stated, it is a wise idea to get your affairs in order before confronting a cheating spouse and asking them for a divorce. You will want to place a good focus on your finances. Are you in good financial standing? Does most of your money belong to your spouse or is it in their control? If so, you may want to wait. Unless you have a good and secure network of friends and family members, it is important to make sure that you can financially survive on your own, especially if you have children.

The best time to confront a cheating spouse is when you know it is safe to do so. Does your husband or wife have violent tendencies? If so, be sure to keep the kids away. Next, consider confronting them in public or have a trusted friend, relative, or the police on hand. For your safety, never confront a cheating spouse who has been drinking or who has used drugs. This is likely to increase the chance of violence. Confronting your spouse and ending your relationship should be important to you, but please don’t put yourself at risk.

Since there are no guarantees that cheating could be going on, even with the above mentioned signs present, additional steps should be taken. These steps can and should include monitoring cell phone calls, viewing the cell phone bill, or hiring a private investigator. Never confront your husband or wife without the proper proof. Be sure to get solid evidence of cheating, otherwise you could be creating a whole new problem in your relationship.

Is Cheating in Costa Rica Increasing ?

I have noticed a spike in the number of cheating spouse surveillance. Is cheating in Costa Rica increasing? It has been so much, that I have had to increase staff to keep pace. Just recently, I have had more unfaithful partner cases than other types of investigations. Throughout the previous year, the need for monitoring cheating partners has actually increased twofold.

A recent study on the factors contributing to an increase was inconclusive. Exactly what force is behind the increase, the results were mixed. The majority of the study indicates that this increase throughout financial difficult times is contrary to other information and current surveys suggesting, many people can ill afford exposure to a separation or a divorce.

Factors influencing the increase of cheating in Costa Rica

Perhaps, one factor is due to the enhanced pressure that financial tough times give the household environment. The increase might be related to the egregious partner desiring to leave the pressures. Costa Rica is a stunning nation with numerous natural resources that bring visitors from all over the world. Costa Rica is world-renowned for its stunning coastlines and tropical rainforest. It is likewise referred to as a fishing destination for enthusiastic fishermen, particularly from the United States. Numerous cases are now being examined starting with the tale that the cheating partner is going to Costa Rica to fish.

This “cover story”, in a sense holds true. The kind of fishing being done is not in the sea, it is in the many areas that have young, lovely, and beautiful females who work in the sex trade. The “fishing bait” being made use of is around 6 inches long, green, and is called United States currency.

Where do they come from

The most widespread locations in the United States experience the greatest rate of cheating partners. U.S. locations that have the highest frequency are metropolitan areas. The bigger cities such as Atlanta, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Miami. Over the previous 6 months, most of the extramarital relations cases have actually come from the Atlanta area. The cases vary from a weekend spree to secretly sending money to the prostitute.

I have had cases where the unfaithful partner has actually bought a property in Costa Rica, without the knowledge or permission of the wife. For the most part, cheaters stand to lose their Costa Rica property. Any property acquired in Costa Rica while their marriage exists in the United States can be lost. It is subject to an undivided one-half with their spouse in Costa Rica without a divorce. In fact, the wife in the United States only has to file a demand for her undivided one-half. The Costa Rica courts and the property will be tied up until a settlement agreement is executed between them. Costa Rica has really distinct laws worrying about such realty purchases.

Agency Information

Our agency in San Jose is fully staffed and I have an associate who is a licensed Costa Rican Attorney. This is definitely an advantage to our clients in order to assist them with legal matters. Matters, such as recovering properties that have actually been obtained surreptitiously. Land grabs are common here. I have a law degree, but I do not practice law in Costa Rica and encourage anybody requiring a comprehensive description of the laws get in touch with somebody like my associate, a certified Costa Rica lawyer and have the law explained in detail.

Commonly I am asked, when should a suspicious partner seek my services. The simple truth he is coming to Costa Rica with his “pals” which alone should prompt action. If absolutely nothing takes place then the partner in the United States can have some peace of mind knowing that her suspicions were unfounded.

Costa Rica Brides

Costa Rica is gaining popularity for nothing else but Costa Rican brides and romance scams these days.

How the country got itself involved in this mess goes back to two things; beautiful women; and a dismal economy. As Costa Ricans seek a better life, many have found that by scamming foreigners on the internet can be a way out to a better situation. None better than a Costa Rica Bride scheme. If being a criminal or unethical is what it takes, many Costa Rican scammers accept the risk. The poor economy in Central America has led many beautiful Costa Ricans to seek love online on major social networks and also online dating sites. Other Costa Rican women choose adult web cam sites or adult online dating. They hope to meet a foreigner who can support them, and pay their way to a better life. And, they are willing to do nearly whatever it takes to get it.

Current status

We as Costa Rican investigators can confirm that in the past six months the request for investigations on women located in Medellin and elsewhere in Colombia has nearly doubled. Clearly, not all Costa Rican women are scammers and many are beautiful, honest and decent women truly looking for love, or just looking to meet new people. Investigators say ignoring the risk, however, is a dangerous way to conduct relationships online, and often leads to internet users being victims.

Fake profiles and photographs

Some scammers use fake profiles and photographs. Others show themselves on website, but lie about their true identity and/or circumstances. Still others reveal themselves entirely, but lie about their intentions, feelings and motives just to get your money or gifts. It’s a serious risk that can leave online dating subscribers and social networking users devastated with heartache and very serious financial loss. Experts say it is essential to verify first rather than later.

Caveat Emptor

Remember “caveat emptor” (buyer beware) that the risk for online scams and fraud, especially in the realm of internet dating and social networks continues to rise. Guard your personal information. Do not reveal your true date of birth or address until you’ve met the subject in person, or had the person verified by a reputable private investigation company and background check.

Professional scammers

Romance scammers are professional criminals that know their ways to gain your trust and eventually your money. Investigators have seen people requesting help when it is already too late and in most cases, victims have lost a lot of money and life savings, even their homes in some cases. Whether it’s Costa Rica or elsewhere, take it slow on the internet. Take time to get to know the person, protect your personal data, and consider an a thorough due diligence prior to sending any money or making an emotional commitment, this will save you money and heartache.

Relationship Background Checks

I have often thought, why don’t my clients check the backgrounds with who they have a relationship? Relationship background checks are absolutely necessary for any relationship in Costa Rica. Furthermore, failure in doing so may cause you both emotional and financial bankruptcy in the future. You need to keep in mind that Costa Rica is a third-world country. Thus the economics here leave many wanting just for the basics every day. We recommend that before you do anything here, you have us do the due diligence to prevent a bad decision. Caveat Emptor, which means “buyer beware”. Perhaps in this context, it should be “careful what you ask for, you might get it”. You as the foundation of a relationship here cannot be understated.

What do I need to do a background check

It is important that you get as much information that is available prior to due diligence. Things like the complete name, date of birth. and place of employment. You need to remember, everything person down here has two last names. Absent a cedula number it is impossible to get an accurate due diligence check done. With the complete name accessing the records will be more efficient and save money. The more information you provide the more information we will be able to get. Aslo, pinpointing where they live is important for several reasons.

What about business relationship?

Before you enter into any business agreement with anyone in Costa Rica you need to have them checked out. If its real estate even moreso. The biggest fraud here is real estate fraud. The main reason for this is due to no government oversight on real estate agents or companies. If you want to be a real estate agent in Costa Rica you don’t need a license to do so. Costa Rica is notorious for fostering and promoting fraud by scammers. That is the reason yo need to do your homework.

Cheating Girlfriend in Costa Rica

Back in the States do you have a Cheating Girlfriend in Costa Rica?

Do you ever have a gut feeling that you have a cheating girlfriend in Costa Rica? Concluding all of us men are the same. As a tenured and professional private investigators, most, think with their hearts. Moreover, that is until the brain takes over and says “something wrong here”. More than often they don’t see what is right in front of their eyes. It’s a predicament. We try to avoid scams and cheating girlfriends. The more we get reeled in the fewer things we see that are obvious.

Sometimes it takes the scrutiny or unbiased opinion of a neutral party to give us the truth that we don’t see in front of us. Actually taking the step to seek out this advice is a big one and as men, we don’t even want to admit to ourselves that the possibility exists. We rationalize all of the telltale signs of what she’s doing and try to convince ourselves that there is an explanation for everything. There are always red flags. The red flags are usually pretty standard and anyone paying attention will see these red flags long before the man will.

Observations

Cody Gear has seen these scenarios firsthand for over 20 years. I know how to get you the answers you want….or don’t want. We won’t just bring you an opinion. We’ll bring you evidence and results to help you make difficult choices if that’s the case. If you think that you have a cheating girlfriend in Costa Rica, call us. For expert advice to help protect you from heartache and possible financial loss you might want to consider taking our short course on how to avoid getting caught in the most common traps of women who play games. If you want to find out more about this subject click here.

Costa Rica Squatters

Costa Rica Squatters: Just when it seemed that investing in property in Costa Rica was safe, today saw the expropriation of property occupied by Costa Rica squatters. After a lengthy legal 2-year battle, a group of Costa Rican squatters expropriates land from owners. Squatters (“Campesinos”) have managed to take approximately 1050 acres from Dutch investors after a lengthy 2-year court battle.

April 2011 saw 316 families enter the farm in Medio Queso de Los Chiles. Located in Costa Rica’s central Northern Zone, near the border of Nicaragua. I know, the land belongs to a group of investors, who rented the property to Costa Rica farmers. Consequntly, the land grab continues. If you have property here especially now, and you are an absentee owner beware you are at risk.

What is a squatter?

In the US, a squatter is any person who has moved onto property without permission of the owner. Commonly known as adverse possession. Similarly, Costa Rica squatters move onto the property. Your intervention can stop the squatters building and protect yourself. I know the land is owned by a group of Dutch investors, who rented the property to a Costa Rican farmer. The farmer has been using the land to grow crops for the past few years, but the investors have decided to sell the land to a new buyer.

The farmer is worried he will lose his land and his livelihood if the new buyer decides to evict him. Shifting buildings and dwellings and claiming the land as their own. The squatters claim the owners were not producing on the land. This is despite the declaration by the Costa Rican that had leased the land. Subsequently, asserting that he had made over $2 million in improvements to the agriculture area since the time he leased it.

The conflict grew over the next two years, with the Costa Rica squatters being evicted numerous times by the police. On several occasions, the attempts to evict the squatters turned violent. The squatters alleged in addition to destroying their homes on several occasions the owners hired men to destroy farm animals. Moreover the men in doing so their belongings as well.

What happened next?

The squatters frequently returned to the property after being evicted, sometimes within hours of the eviction, and begin rebuilding. The dispute made Costa Rica national headlines last year when a secret audio recording of a police officer instructing privately hired guards to “shoot to kill” was made public.

The government agency that oversees such disputes, known as the Rural Development Institute (INDER) issued resolution 032-2013 this week, which orders the land to be expropriated and given to the squatters.

Over the years, the squatters have drawn support from many Costa Ricans, including on social networks. The local daily, newspapers heralded the decision by INDER to expropriate the property. One paper *Dario” declared, “This agreement is a triumph for rural families of that community”. “The successful expropriation sets a precedent for struggling “Campesinos” (squatters) of the country. It shows that INDER is legally qualified to expropriate and distribute land to “Campesinos” who need it,” the newspaper continued.

Adverse possession in the US

Unlike the United States which has statutes in all states covering adverse possession, Costa Rica has none. Costa Rica law provides that unimproved agricultural land can be occupied by squatters. Furthermore, once they erect a structure they can obtain title to the land. There is no time restriction, thus the land once occupied by the squatter takes a court action to remove. The United States adverse possession laws give time limits with most requiring seven years of occupancy openly and notoriously prior to the squatter obtaining title.

This decision will have a chilling effect on foreign land investors. Gear said that any investor contemplating investing in unimproved land in Costa Rica should seek the services of a licensed attorney in Costa Rica prior to buying such land.

Setting Expectations for Costa Rica Infidelity Cases