What should a private investigator do if they find evidence of a crime during an investigation?

Reporting the findings to law enforcement immediately is the correct action for a private investigator to take when they encounter evidence of a crime during an investigation. This is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, private investigators have a responsibility to uphold the law and act ethically in their professional conduct. If they come across evidence of criminal activity, they are not acting within the scope of their duty or the law by attempting to conceal or ignore this information. Furthermore, it aligns with public interest and safety to ensure that law enforcement is informed so that they can take appropriate action.

Additionally, involving law enforcement helps to ensure that the evidence is handled properly and preserved for any potential legal proceedings. By reporting their findings, private investigators enable law enforcement to initiate necessary actions and investigations, which could prevent further criminal activity and protect potential victims.

This choice is aligned with both legal obligations and ethical standards that govern the conduct of private investigators, whereas attempting to hide or ignore evidence could lead to legal liabilities and compromises the integrity of the investigation.