Private investigators in criminal investigations gather, analyze, and verify evidence to support legal cases, often working for defense attorneys or victims. Key activities include surveillance, interviewing witnesses, conducting background checks, reviewing court/public records, and utilizing digital forensics. They operate within legal boundaries to locate, document, and report facts to clients. 

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Core Components of a Criminal Investigation:

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• Surveillance: Using binoculars, cameras, and GPS trackers to monitor subjects and gather photographic or video evidence.

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• Interviews and Statements: Questioning witnesses, neighbors, or individuals involved to obtain firsthand accounts.

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• Background Checks and Records Research: Searching public records, court documents,, and police reports to find evidence or verify information.

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• Digital Forensics and Online Research: Analyzing social media, internet activity, and computer/phone data to uncover information or deleted files.

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• Undercover Operations: Posing in undercover roles to gather information from within organizations.

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• Legal Support: Locating witnesses, serving subpoenas, and preparing evidence for trial.

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• Evidence Analysis: Analyzing financial records, forensic evidence, or, in some cases, collaborating with experts (e.g., forensic accountants) to build a case. 

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PIs are not law enforcement, but they often collaborate with legal counsel to provide critical, admissible evidence to support defense cases or civil litigation.