🧩 Decoding Database Reports: A Practical Guide

If you’ve ever worked with private investigators, chances are you’ve received a comprehensive report from a database like TLO, Clear, or Accurint. At AK Investigations, we often rely on TLO as an excellent starting point. But remember—these reports are only a foundation. The information isn’t verified, and that’s where your PI comes in.

🔥 HOT TIP! Database reports typically pull data from a mix of public records, credit headers, utility connections, and more. Some of this data might be accurate, but it requires cross-checking and analysis to confirm. Do not accept a database report as fact. It’s not!

Here’s a breakdown of common categories you’ll find in these reports. Always ask your investigator how to interpret them; reading these reports takes skill, and even then, it’s a bit like reading tea leaves.

Key Categories to Look For and What They Mean

📱Possible Addresses and Phone Numbers. These are often listed by frequency or longevity of use. There are strategies investigators use to determine the most accurate information.

📑 Possible Criminal History. Approach it with caution. Database reports for subjects with common names may pull records from others with the same name, creating false positives. Verification through court records or a more detailed background check is always necessary to confirm any criminal history.

🚘 Driver’s License Information. This section can tell you if the subject’s driver’s license is current and where it’s registered. A verified license address can be a solid lead, but it should still be checked against other sources to confirm its relevance.

👩‍💼 Business Ownership. If the subject owns or has owned a business, this detail is often included. However, it’s just a starting point. From here, we can cross-check with other resources, such as the Secretary of State’s records, to verify active business details or uncover any additional connections.

🛞 Vehicle Ownership and Registration. This is one of our favorite sections—a little golden nugget. Because vehicle registration is typically renewed annually, it often connects us to current addresses. Plus, knowing which vehicles and tags to be on the lookout for can be incredibly useful in field investigations.

👀 Vehicle Sighting Function. Talk about big brother! Some databases even include tag sightings. This data can indicate where a subject’s vehicle has been commonly spotted, giving you insight into places they may frequent. It’s not always available, but when it is, it’s another tool for tracking activity patterns.

💸 Bankruptcies and Possible Financial Records. Financial records, like bankruptcies or liens, can shed light on a subject’s financial situation. However, as with all sections, these details need to be confirmed before relying on them fully. Remember, bank account information is not publicly available.

🫂 Possible Family Members and Associates. Family members and known associates are listed based on known ties in public records. These connections can provide additional leads or help confirm the subject’s identity, especially when trying to narrow down possible addresses.

A good investigator uses these database details as pieces of a larger puzzle, verifying and cross-referencing each element to uncover accurate, actionable information. So, the next time you receive a database report, don’t hesitate to ask your PI for help interpreting it. With a bit of patience and know-how, those reports can lead to incredible insights—no tea leaves required. 🍃

Take the Next Step with AK Investigations

At AK Investigations, we specialize in thoughtful, high-quality support tailored to the needs of each case. Whether you’re an attorney needing expert investigative services or a professional ready to enhance your skills, we’re here to help. If you need immediate assistance on a case, contact us to see how we can support you.

At AK Investigations, we believe report analysis is an essential skill for private investigators. Our course takes you step by step through everything you need to know about report analysis. It’s practical, proven, and packed with tools to make you the investigator every defense team wants in their corner.

Take the Next Step with AK Investigations

If you’re interested in applying this technique to your own work or having your paralegal, legal secretary or other staff member of your office learn the ropes, consider signing up for our upcoming Criminal Defense Investigations Course. Backgrounds, Records, and Case Research is a career course, with incredible value.

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At AK Investigations, we specialize in thoughtful, high-quality support tailored to the needs of each case. Whether you’re an attorney needing expert investigative services or a professional ready to enhance your skills, we’re here to help. If you need immediate assistance on a case, contact us to see how we can support you.