“Our vision is to be the most trusted and reliable investigative firm in the industry”

In this interview, we explore the journey and ethos behind Cutty Investigations. The company’s founder, Rick Hanson, shares insights into the origins of the business, which stemmed from decades of experience in international protection. We delve into the core values that drive the firm, including the paramount importance of confidentiality and ethical practices, and discuss how Cutty Investigations prepares to navigate the evolving landscape of the private investigation industry in the coming years.

Company Background and Vision

Q: Can you tell us about the founding and history of Cutty Investigations?

A: The story of Cutty Investigations began with a vision to create a firm that could offer unparalleled investigative services grounded in professionalism and integrity. Our journey started when I was immersed in international protection, having spent 20 years safeguarding high-profile individuals and sensitive operations globally. The nature of executive protection work often intertwined with investigative needs, as understanding threats, verifying information, and ensuring clients’ safety required deep investigative acumen.

In 1997, while I was working as an international protection agent, I identified a gap in the market for a firm that could combine top-tier protective services with rigorous investigative capabilities. This realization led to the founding of Cutty Investigations. Our mission was to provide a broad spectrum of professional private investigations, delivering information, trust, and peace of mind to our clients. Over the years, we have stayed true to this mission, expanding our services and building a reputation for excellence and integrity.

Q: What did you do before founding the company?

A: Before founding Cutty Investigations, I spent two decades as an international protection agent. This role required me to operate in various high-stakes environments around the world, ensuring the safety and security of VIPs, executives, and other high-profile individuals. The experience I gained in this field was invaluable, as it honed my skills in risk assessment, threat mitigation, and strategic planning. These skills naturally extended to the realm of private investigations, where understanding nuances and details can make all the difference. My background in executive protection provided a solid foundation for establishing a company that excels in both protective and investigative services.

Q: What is the mission and vision of the company?

A: Our mission at Cutty Investigations is to provide a wide scope of professional, private investigations with honor and integrity. We are committed to bringing information, trust, and peace of mind to our clients through meticulous and ethical investigative practices. Our vision is to be the most trusted and reliable investigative firm in the industry, known for our unwavering commitment to our clients and our exceptional ability to uncover the truth.

Confidentiality and Ethics

Q: How do you ensure confidentiality and discretion in your investigations?

A: Confidentiality and discretion are the cornerstones of our investigative practice. We employ only licensed and trained investigators who adhere to strict confidentiality agreements. Our data management practices include the use of encrypted systems for storing and transmitting information, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data. Furthermore, our investigators often work on a need-to-know basis, meaning they may not even know the identity of the client they are working for. This approach minimizes the risk of information leaks and maintains the highest level of privacy and discretion for our clients.

Q: What ethical guidelines do you follow to maintain integrity in your work?

A: We adhere to stringent ethical guidelines to ensure the integrity of our investigations. All our investigators are licensed by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZ DPS), which mandates adherence to high ethical and professional standards. We follow strict privacy standards, ensuring that all information gathered during an investigation is used appropriately and lawfully. Our philosophy, rooted in honor and integrity, guides all our actions, ensuring that we operate with the highest level of ethical responsibility.

Q: When prospective clients are trying to determine if your team is reliable, what do you tell them?

A: We emphasize our commitment to integrity and professionalism, which are the pillars of our operations. We assure prospective clients that we approach each case with the utmost dedication, ensuring that their needs are met with precision and discretion. Our founder’s reputation for honor and reliability is a testament to the standards we uphold. We believe in doing what we do best so our clients can focus on their lives and businesses without unnecessary difficulties and interruptions. Our motto, “We do it for the cause, not the money,” encapsulates our dedication to serving our clients with the highest ethical standards.

Challenges and Solutions

Q: What are some common challenges you face in private investigations?

A: Private investigations often come with a unique set of challenges, including gathering accurate information within legal boundaries, maintaining client confidentiality, and dealing with uncooperative subjects. Additionally, technological advancements can both aid and complicate investigations, as they introduce new tools but also new methods for individuals to cover their tracks.

Q: Can you comment on how you face these challenges?

A: We address these challenges by gathering as much information from our clients as possible before initiating an investigation. This preparation allows us to develop a comprehensive strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. We also stay updated with legal requirements and ensure all our activities comply with relevant laws and regulations. Our use of advanced technology and specialized training equips our investigators to handle even the most complex situations effectively.

Future Plans

Q: How do you see the private investigation industry evolving in the next few years?

A: The private investigation industry is poised to evolve significantly in the coming years, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing complexity of the challenges we face. The integration of artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics will likely play a significant role in enhancing investigative capabilities. These technologies can help in processing large volumes of data more efficiently, identifying patterns, and uncovering insights that may not be immediately apparent through traditional methods.

Q: How is your company preparing for these changes?

A: At Cutty Investigations, we proactively prepare for these changes by investing in the latest technologies and ensuring our team is trained to utilize them effectively. We stay abreast of industry developments through continuous education and active participation in professional associations. By embracing innovation and fostering a culture of adaptability, we are positioning ourselves to meet the future demands of the industry head-on and continue providing our clients with the highest level of service.