Phoenix, AZ— It all began in the 1980s. I clearly remember groups of butch lesbians dressed like Hells Angels gang members demonstrating on Jefferson Street, demanding stronger domestic violence laws. The push at the time was to create tougher court restraining orders and to punish cowardly men who physically and emotionally abused women. These same groups also sought tax-supported shelters for battered women. Those advocating for stricter laws ultimately succeeded, but things didn’t unfold as planned. As a licensed private investigator and court process server, I found myself serving these orders on lesbians who were allegedly abusing each other. Obtaining restraining orders that eject a person from their own home and confiscate firearms requires only a single, unsupported allegation. Although there is a hearing later, the accused doesn’t get a public defender since these cases are considered civil matters, meaning due process is minimal at best. I also discovered that the batt...

Three men wearing tough guy black suits, but are they trained or just security theater?  Los Angeles, CA —As the Oscar Awards are presented the serious side of celebrity security is an important area of concern.  Today many entertainers and security professionals are discussing the dark side of the entertainment business. As a private investigator I've had to deal with numerous stalking cases involving celebrities in film, television and TV news.  I generally stick to threat assessment, background investigations, management and actual prophylactic contact with the offenders.   Except in special cases I leave the muscle work to others.   Celebrities are generally admired but sometimes for the wrong reasons by their fans.  When an actor makes the choice to expose their images and personal history for the general public it can pay handsomely.  It also sometimes comes with a price that can be painfully expensive and sometimes frightening. ...