Division of Administrative Hearings, Florida
Filed: Aug. 04, 1997
Whether, during the period May 28, 1996, to January 16, 1997, Respondent, a Florida-licensed Private Investigator and private investigative agency licensee, disclosed confidential information without prior authorization of his clients, in violation of Section 493.6118(1)(e), Florida Statutes. Whether, during the period May 28, 1996, to January 16, 1997, Respondent knowingly violated Section 43-38-16, Georgia Statutes, during the course of business regulated under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes, in violation of Section 493.6118(1)(k), Florida Statutes. (Respondent contests the authority or right of Petitioner, Department of State, Division of Licensing, to determine whether Respondent has violated the Georgia statute.) Whether, during the period May 28, 1996, to January 16, 1997, Respondent committed misconduct in the practice of regulated activity under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes, in violation of Section 493.6118(1)(f), Florida Statutes, in that Respondent obtained information during his investigation but refused to disclose that information, failed to provide requested written reports, and failed to provide a written statement regarding use of retainer funds to his clients.Failure/refusal to disclose his sources to his client and disclosing them to third parties without written release resulted in fine and suspension. Respondent found not guilty of violating another state's statute.
