Kate Warne is considered to be the first female private detective in the United States. Not much is known about Warne other than that she was a slender brown haired woman, who walked into the Pinkerton Detective Agency in 1856 in answer to an ad in a local newspaper. Pinkerton himself claimed that Warne came into his agency and demanded to become a detective. According to Pinkerton’s records, he
“was surprised to learn Kate was not looking for clerical work, but was actually answering an advertisement for detectives he had placed in a Chicago newspaper. At the time, such a concept was almost unheard of. Pinkerton said “It is not the custom to employ women detectives!” Kate argued her point of view eloquently – pointing out that woman could be “most useful in worming out secrets in many places which would be impossible for a male detective.” A Woman would be able to befriend the wives and girlfriends of suspected criminals and gain their confidence. Men become braggarts when they are around women who encourage them to boast. Kate also noted, Women have an eye for detail and are excellent observers.” – Wikipedia
Although the private investigation profession has been marked as a man’s profession in the past, that image is beginning to change. The number of women in the field is being to rise rapidly. At Inter-State Investigative Services in Tucson & Phoenix, Arizona, there are now three licensed female investigators.
What was once considered a criticism of women is an attribute in the investigative realm. Women who are described as “nosey” in actuality may just have a “nose” for facts or details. Many women do an exceptional job researching computer data, reviewing court documents and gathering data in general.
Women investigators are also very good at working with people. Women can do an exemplary job interviewing clients, especially men, who may be suspicious of their male counterparts. Even on surveillance, a woman is often less likely to arouse suspicion or apprehension in a subject. Another important attribute when considering an investigator is that most people tend to relax when a woman is on the phone. Therefore phone interviews or pretexts may actually be easier for some women investigators.
Investigative talents come natural for many women. Besides the many other things private investigators do, women investigators can also be good at helping provide peace of mind and managing sensitive situations.
Men will always play a significant role in Private Investigation. At Inter-State Investigative Services there is a group of male investigators who provide exceptional service, whether it is a quick research matter or an exhaustive investigation, their level of professionalism and dedication is unparallel.
Regardless, before hiring any Private Investigator, male or female, be sure to get a referral, check references and confirm through the state Licensing Board their license number and if they have received any complaints. It is also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau. In Tucson, Arizona the link to the Better Business Bureau is: http://tucson.bbb.org/Find-Business-Reviews/
In Arizona, Private Investigators are licensed through the Arizona Department of Public Safety. You can obtain information regarding a private investigator license status at: http://webapps.azdps.gov/public_inq/sgrd/ShowLicenseStatus.action