Costa Rica Private Investigators are Significantly Different

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The difference

 

Costa Rica Private Investigators are significantly different from their American counterparts. For international investigations, i.e., those in Costa Rica are unique from those in the United States. Private investigations in the United States differ from those in Costa Rica. Since I have been here for over 15 years I know the differences. You will want to keep in mind that Costa Rica is still a third-world country. If you don’t you may be throwing your money away.

 

Comparison

When you want to hire a private investigator here, you need to understand it is different that the States. Commercial directories that include a lot of information about people and businesses in the United States are available. You can also find cross-reference directory sites that identify and associate people and phone numbers. This is not the case in Costa Rica.

Database and public records

You will note, Costa Rica Private Investigators are significantly different due to the accessibility to information. The availability of data sources is thorough making the job of a private investigator in the U.S. simple in comparison to a Costa Rica private investigator. I know that is outside the scope of this blog to explain all of the differences. Depending on which region is included, Costa Rica private investigators can not access all records. Absent a lawsuit we can access civil claim records unless they have a valid reason or a source in the government in Costa Rica.

Criminal records

When it comes to criminal records, there is no reliable database that is accessible in Costa Rica.  Rather, Costa Rica private investigators must have reliable law-enforcement sources to obtain information on criminal records.  Even then it may require the services of a Costa Rica attorney to get the information. Additionally, having resources to get in touch with various governmental agencies in possession of said records is a must. There could be 3 or 4 governmental agencies with criminal and/or civil record information.

Getting the information

Investigations in Costa Rica are normally more challenging than those in the United States. The privacy laws in Costa Rica in some circumstances are stricter when compared to personal privacy regulations within the U.S. This is often the case when it pertains to criminal record checks. Corporate records in Costa Rica are incomplete. Corporate registrations in Costa Rica and other Latin American countries are entirely different regarding needs and details obtained throughout a search of records. Business records in Costa Rica are vague. Consequently, there have been cases where people’s information is not recorded properly.

Corruption

Corruption is a major issue in Costa Rica regarding private investigators and the information they can obtain. It is necessary that when an agency, corporate body, or individual decides to utilize a Costa Rica private investigator you need to vet. I also know, relying on their results, to use in your case a straightforward investigator must be retained. If you do not, the Costa Rica private investigator involved may be influenced by outside influences.

Conclusion

I know, most international private investigators know they can frequently obtain money from both their client and the subject of their investigation. You need to be cautious when choosing a Costa Rica private investigator because of the potential for corruption. I recommend you vet thoroughly a private investigator and choose the one that feels the most comfortable and knowledgeable to you. For information on this subject please visit our website, www.codygear.com, or call us toll-free at 321-218-9209.

 

Costa Rica Brides

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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.

Playa Samara

Costa Rica Accidental and Violent Deaths

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Accidental and violent deaths

Playa Samara

Playa Samara

According to the Costa Rica Red Cross, this December has seen the highest number of Costa Rica accidental and violent deaths in over six years.  This December has witnessed 105 violent or accidental deaths, in addition to 350 persons seriously injured by violence or accidents. These risks are seldom publicized to tourists when traveling here.

The Red Cross broke down the death and injuries to a total of 37 people killed this month as the result of traffic accidents, while another 155 suffered serious injuries. Between December 1st and December 30th, 24 people were killed with firearms, knives, or sharp weapons, while another 69 remain in serious or critical condition.

Water is one of the major sources of deaths

A total of 10 people have been killed in water-related accidents at beaches, rivers, or lakes – three of them minors. The fact is that the government doesn’t want to publicize Costa Rica accidental and violent deaths.

It is always advisable to exercise caution when traveling in Costa Rica. The roadway system is inadequate for the heavy traffic that presents itself on a daily basis. The Pacific Ocean is known for its deadly run-outs which claim lives every year. The other violent deaths are primarily associated with the local population. However, you should avoid areas that by their very appearance suggest danger.

Almost all of the public beaches here have no lifeguards and no warning signs. I investigated the deaths and learned the government has done nothing for safety.  Tragically, 8 souls were lost at one time at Playa Seca which is north of Quepos. The victims were part of a high school exploration trip. When they arrived 6 teenagers and 2 chaperones perished in a rip current. As a result of the bad publicity, the Costa Rica government posted signs warning of a rip current which was torn down by locals.

Most who visit here take for granted that emergency services are readily available. They are not and response time for first responders can vary from 15 minutes to 2 hours. Most of the hospitals outside the greater San Jose area are not always staffed with doctors.

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself prior to coming in order to plan your trip with safety in mind. The visitor’s bureau does not promote publicity about Costa Rica Accidental and violent deaths.

Costa Rica-Panama Run

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The Costa Rica-Panama Run has more headaches than ever. Recently, a group of Costa Rica football players was traveling to Panama to play in David. At the border, the Panamanian immigration required each person to demonstrate that they had $500. Either on their person or prove they had that much in an account they could access from Panama. The team had a few Americans. In addition, they were required to produce proof of a return trip ticket to the United States from Panama. The Americans were detained until they provided proof of purchase for a return trip to the United States.

What’s the problem?

It is unclear if this initiative was solely the Panamanian Government or a collaboration between Costa Rica and Panama. The objective was to stem the abuse of the “permanent tourist”  which Costa Rica wants to stop. It has long been the custom in Costa Rica that Americans were given a visa stamp for 90 days. Many Americans who stay here longer would travel to either Panama or Nicaragua to obtain another 90-day stamp. Entry into Costa Rica is for 30 days and Americans must show proof of a return to the United States.

Why is this happening?

It is apparent that the governments in this part of the world are increasing their efforts to impede Americans. So, freely moving between countries or otherwise not complying with local immigration regulations is ending. Residency requirements in Costa Rica are in a perpetual state of flux with changes taking place with little or no thought as to the consequences. As one Panamanian official said when asked; ” We are tired of processing thousands of perpetual tourists from Costa Rica each year who contribute nothing to Panama. Thinking you are “entitled” to have your passport stamped is a misconception and the times of the past are no longer”.

It is advisable that if you go to the border by land for any reason you should be prepared to face obstacles, particularly if you are an American. If you need assistance prior to traveling I suggest that you contact us to learn the latest in border crossing snafus.

Relationship Background Checks

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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

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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.

Legal

Costa Rica Squatters

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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.

 

Travelling to Costa Rica

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Some things to know travelling to Costa Rica

 

Before traveling outside your native country to another country you should prepare yourself. There are things to know travelling to Costa Rica to avoid unpleasant consequences.  Learning about the country before you go can prevent common problems or confusion.  Cultures vary throughout the world and sometimes a simple misunderstanding can become a big deal.  Learning about the basic life, culture and laws of a country you are traveling to can help you to be prepared and have an enjoyable vacation.

The basic things you need to know include how to get around, business hours and various other points.  Once you get to Costa Rica you need to know how to get around from place to place, especially if you are not within walking distance of your destination.

How do I get around?

Buses are the main form of transportation.  It is the most cost efficient and easiest way to get around.  Do be aware that the buses in Costa Rica are small and sometimes cramped.  You will not be able to take along luggage and if you need a lot of legroom you will be in trouble.  Another form of transportation is a rental car.  They are quite more expensive and you need to have insurance that will cover the rental car in case of an accident.  Also know that most rental cars are standards, so if you do not know how to drive one you may be out of luck.

Business hours in Costa Rica are much like that in the United States.  Typically they run from 8 or 9 AM to 3 or 5 PM.  Everyday a lunch break takes place between noon and 2PM.  Also on Sundays most places will be closed.  Costa Rica runs on Central Standard time, which means some of those traveling from the US may get to avoid jet lag all together.  The healthcare system in Costa Rica is very advanced.  They have an excellent system that offers up-to-date medical care in modern hospitals.  You can most often find doctors that speak English as well.  These basic facts will help you to get used to life in Costa Rica, but there are some more things you should get to know.

What are the things I need to know?

In Costa Rica there are some legal things you need to know.  If you are renting a car be aware that Costa Rica is a good place to have an accident.  Drivers here rank low for auto accident rates. The speed limits are posted either on signs or painted on the pavement and you should always be aware of them. The speed limits range from 45 to 55 MPH in general.   Costa Rica laws require that all luggage is screened through customs and declarations must be filled out for certain items like food and anything valuable.  Alcohol is legal for those over the age of eighteen.  Also be aware that prostitution is legal in Costa Rica for those over eighteen. These helpful hints about legal do’s and don’ts will help you avoid problems while in Costa Rica.

Other things to note

It is always nice to know about little things that are often overlooked on travel websites or in brochures.  The water heaters in hotels in Costa Rica are not like those in the United States.  You will find they are mostly plastic tubes with an electrical gadget in the nozzle.  This means hot water may not always be hot.  The busiest time in Costa Rica is during what is called the high season.  The high season is between December and May.  You may find that getting reservations can be difficult during this time.  You usually do not have to tip while out in Costa Rica.  A 10% tip is added to your bill. Another good thing to know is that the sewer systems can handle toilet paper unlike those in other countries.

The water system in Costa Rica is treated and safe to drink. The electricity in Costa Rica is the same as in the United States.  They do not use the grounding prong in some locations, so be aware of the need for adapters for this reason.  Dancing is big in Costa Rica and you can find dance clubs all over.  Laundry mats are not common in Costa Rica.  Most people send their laundry out to be washed. Some vacation rentals offer a washer/dryer as an amenity.  These helpful little hints can help you get through your vacation without a mishap.

Costa Rica is a lovely, peaceful country.  There is a lot to see and do.  Once you have decided on Costa Rica get to know a little more about the country so you can enjoy everything it has to offer.

Mistakes to avoid in Costa Rica

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Five Mistakes to Avoid in Costa Rica

As a tenured professional private investigator in Costa Rica, I have witnessed the unnecessary loss of money and emotions. Therefore, I have prepared a list of five mistakes to avoid in Costa Rica.

The law is an amazing preventive, but can also be a devastating curative medicine.  So, please let me try and help you avoid mistakes made by those who came to Costa Rica before you, and try and keep you out of ‘hot water.’

1. Do not do anything you would not do in your own hometown: Many foreigners seem to believe they can outsmart the system when they come to a less developed country. Perhaps. the kind manner most Costa Ricans behave with ex-pats. Which in turning them into wishful thinkers. Always bear in mind that the legal system in Costa Rica is Napoleonic, not Common Law. Consequently, things are handled very differently than in the US or Canada.

Because of that, the best place to begin your investment plan is in an attorney’s office. It is best not to try the Do it yourself method! Some people, in trying to save some dollars in legal fees, avoid finding a good attorney. Subsequently, their issue is not resolved and they lack guidance through their problems. Do not do that! Do your homework. Find an attorney you feel comfortable with and stay with him for as long as he does a good job.

2. Do not rush into the decision of hiring an attorney.

If you are thinking of investing in Costa Rica; like it or not hiring a local attorney is a must for you. It does not matter if you are just buying a car, a home, or planning to set up a million-dollar business. You will need an attorney. You may not like the idea of paying legal fees, but who does? But accept it and live with it. The idea is to have your lawyer working for you as ‘preventive medicine’, as a kind of insurance against what ‘might happen.’

Consider the legal fees as your insurance premium, because that’s really what it is. Today, you will pay a fraction of what it will probably cost to try and fix that problem later on if you do not have an honest attorney to guide you.

3. Do not think of buying Costa Rica real estate and only follow the real estate broker’s advice!

In Costa Rica, real estate brokers are not licensed in the same way they are in the United States. Some of them are real professionals, but a lot of them are just ‘enthusiastic’ salespeople. Many more are con people trying to make a quick dollar.

In either buying or selling real estate, you will probably have a need for a broker’s services. But if your Costa Rica real estate agent is first class, have your attorney on board to supervise the process. Remember no real estate can be transferred here without a Notary. All Notaries here must be licensed Costa Rican Attorneys.  Never use the Notary or attorney of the buyer.  This is not only a conflict of interest, it’s a sure way to fall victim to fraud.

4. Do not blindly trust your own countrymen!

Just because they have been here more time than you have. I have seen US citizens being conned by US people and, Canadians by Canadians and so forth. Be careful! There are a whole lot of strange people in this country, some of them fleeing from the FBI, Interpol, ex-wives, and even from mental institutions.

5. Gentlemen! Please remember that you do not, I repeat, do NOT need to marry the first beautiful ‘Tica’ (Costa Rican woman) that you meet! You will find yourself in the middle of the biggest financial and emotional nightmare imaginable.

Equally important is getting romantically involved with a woman you have only recently met. Ask yourself this simple question, “if she were in the United States, would she be this interested in me?’ This is particularly true if you are 55 and she is 23.  Chances are she is using you as a sponsor. Women will sleep with you after talking to you for 10 minutes. It is a business and she is doing her job. You are paying her for a service that she is doing. If she tells you she loves you she is only doing her job and you are paying her to lie to you. Prior to making and romantic or financial commitment, get her checked out.

 

Protect your Costa Rica Private Property

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Costa Rica Property Fraud Alert Service

As an absentee owner, it is important to be aware of any activity concerning your property in Costa Rica. You need to protect your Costa Rica private property. The Private Property Registry (PPR) is a valuable resource that can keep you informed and help prevent fraud. Currently, the PPR protects over 15,000 properties in Costa Rica. If you are an absentee owner this service will protect your Costa Rica Private property. We are here to assist you to secure your property.

Each night, the PPR robot downloads data from the National Registry’s database. They keep the information in an encrypted file. Robots scan the encrypted files that are questionable. Robots analyze the data and compare it to yesterday’s results. Analyzed each entry line by line and flag any entry that needs further analysis. Sending the analyzed data to the respective lawyer for review.

The National Registry, following procedures required by law, update the records. One requirement is the record holder appear in person.  Alternatively, an authorized designee with the appropriate documents justifying why a change has been rsuequested. Thus protecting businesses from fraudulent claims and false allegations. Strict rules serve the public interest as these would damage their reputation and credibility. 

Subsequently, a bureaucrat will determine if they are valid and if any errors are in the descriptions or clauses. Discrepancies flaged for further review by the respective agents. Further inquiry reveals that this service is affordable. Loss prevention is always better. Property needing to be recovered is always more challenging and costly.

Summarily, the cost of the PPR is negligible compared to the potential loss you could suffer. Checking the cost of PPR is less than $200 per year. PPR offers a premium rate for additional services. I would recommend contacting them directly.

Reach out to a member of our investigative team, get the answers to any questions you might have.

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