What must a private investigator do if they encounter illegal activity during an investigation?

When a private investigator encounters illegal activity during an investigation, they are obligated to report it to the appropriate authorities. This responsibility aligns with the ethical standards and legal obligations that govern the conduct of private investigators. By reporting the illegal activity, the investigator helps ensure that the law is upheld and that any potential harm is addressed.

Failing to report illegal activities could lead to complications for both the investigator and their client. Ignoring the activity or choosing to confront those involved does not resolve the legal implications and may even exacerbate the situation. Documenting the incident in a report is important for record-keeping, but it does not substitute for the necessity of notifying law enforcement or other relevant authorities. Therefore, the only course of action that upholds legal and ethical standards is to report the encountered illegal activity.