Jack Charman: Military-Grade Private Investigation & Bug Sweeping

The discipline gap I saw in private investigation

After years in military special reconnaissance, I saw that many private investigative firms lacked discipline, accountability or the technical capabilities often needed for serious investigations. In March 2016, I set out to build an agency that combines operational rigour, ethical standards, and discretion. NPI was born to be trustworthy, technically capable and client-focused.

I believed clients under stress (personal, corporate or legal) deserve clarity, proof and a pathway forward, not vague promises. That ethos still shapes how I structure cases and client reporting.

Investing in technical capability from day one

From day one I built NPI around both technical capability and field presence. I invested heavily in detection equipment, surveillance tools, and training, assembling a vetted network of operatives across the UK.

We emphasised membership in credible professional bodies (IPI, ABI, WAPI) as part of our credibility guarantee. We also published real case studies, client reviews, and transparent service descriptions (bug sweeps, surveillance, tracing) to reduce client uncertainty about what we actually do.

Two early challenges I had to overcome

Overcoming "shady investigator" stereotypes: To address this, we emphasised transparency, clear legal boundaries, and strong client communication.

Staying ahead of technical escalation: Adversaries sometimes use advanced devices, so we continuously upgrade our TSCM capabilities to detect the latest surveillance tech.

Five core services we provide

1. Bug sweeping and TSCM: Detecting hidden listening devices, cameras, RF transmitters, non-linear junction detection, wide spectrum sweeps.
2. Covert surveillance and monitoring: Following persons or premises to gather video or photographic evidence discreetly.
3. Background checks and tracing: In-depth investigations to uncover histories, locate individuals, verify identities.
4. Asset recovery and investigation: Locating and documenting assets in disputes, divorces, fraud cases.
5. Corporate investigations and workplace fraud: Theft, misconduct, competitor issues, insider threats.

Four elements that define our approach

• Military-Grade Precision: My military training influences our planning, discipline, and chain of command.
• Ethics, Legality and Professional Membership: We maintain strict adherence to law and professional codes (IPI, ABI) to protect clients and ourselves.
• Strong Technical Investment: We continuously upgrade detection equipment and training to counter evolving surveillance tech.
• Client Reporting and Clarity: After investigations we deliver detailed, documented reports, often within 24 hours of case completion, to help clients act.

Clients often say they hire us for clarity, decision-making confidence, and peace of mind. Our Trustpilot reviews average about 4.2/5 and include praise for professionalism and discretion.

Five lessons for founders in investigative services

1. Never compromise on ethics: It's tempting in covert work to push boundaries, but reputation and legality are foundational.
2. Invest in technology and training early: Adversaries evolve; being behind is costly.
3. Transparency helps reduce client anxiety: Over-communicate what you will (within limits) so clients feel involved and confident.
4. Build a network of trusted operatives: You can't cover everywhere yourself; but every operative must meet your standards.
5. Accept that not all cases succeed fully: Sometimes you gather partial evidence or find no proof. Managing expectations early is critical.

What I'd change if I started over

If I were to relaunch NPI today, I would prioritise building more scalable digital intake systems earlier with secure client portals and encrypted communications to streamline onboarding. I'd also have documented more internal case metrics (like types of devices found and detection success rates) to sharpen marketing claims and operational insights sooner. Lastly, I'd expand team recruitment earlier to avoid bottlenecks in high demand periods.

Where I'm taking NPI next

I'm expanding our reach in corporate and cybersecurity intersections. More clients are concerned about internal digital espionage, mixed hardware/IT bugs, and hybrid threats. We're also improving our digital detection capability (IoT, network intrusion monitoring).

We plan to publish more client education content: how bug sweeps work, red flags to watch for, and prevention tips. This helps potential clients understand when and how to engage us. We aim to be not just an investigative service, but a trusted adviser on privacy, surveillance risk and investigative readiness.

If you have suspicions, personal or corporate, or want technical assurance, I'd welcome a confidential conversation.