The Roanoker Nov/Dec 2024 - 29

financial
written by Aila Boyd
Roanoke's private investigators blend ethical expertise with meticulous research,
revealing a profession far more complex than its popular image.
W
hen most people
think of private
investigators, they
picture shadowy figures
chasing cheating
spouses or solving mysterious crimes. But
the job is less about drama and more about
meticulous research, ethical decisions and specialized
expertise. As Jeff Dodson, head of the
criminal justice program at Virginia Western
Community College, puts it, " The role of private
investigators is multi-faceted... their role
involves 'seeking the truth' related to various
matters in which they are hired. " Despite
their contributions, many people misunderstand
what it takes to be a private investigator.
" Some may assume that if you can investigate,
then you are automatically a private investigator.
However, in reality, the opposite is true, "
Dodson explains, emphasizing the stringent
training and registration requirements enforced
by Virginia's Department of Criminal Justice
Services.
Roanoke's Tom Akers and Selma Ferris,
who co-own Tea2Sea LLC, and Robert
Lamour, owner of Protectorscope Security
Solutions, bring unique experiences and skill
sets to their investigative work. Whether
they're helping families reclaim lost property or
consulting on major international events, these
local investigators are proof that there's more
to the profession than meets the eye.
TEA2SEA
Tom Akers and Selma Ferris, co-owners of
Tea2Sea LLC (VA DCJS #11-19986) in
Vinton, specialize in finance-related investigations,
bringing years of experience and a strong
commitment to ethical practices. Together, they
handle a wide range of cases, from fraudulent
property transfers to background checks. Both
have unique backgrounds that led them to
careers in private investigation.
Akers, a Navy veteran, transitioned into
investigative work after his service. His experience
spans roles with companies like Kmart
and T.J. Maxx, where he uncovered internal
theft and fraud. Later, he returned to security
work, where investigations remained a key part
of his responsibilities. His extensive experience
in the field eventually led him to become a
compliance agent and instructor at a DCJS
training school before co-founding Tea2Sea
Investigations.
Ferris' interest in investigations began in
childhood, inspired by mystery novels like
Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys and later, Mary
Higgins Clark. With encouragement from her
husband, she pursued DCJS training and began
her career investigating personal injury claims.
Now, she applies her pattern-finding skills as a
co-owner of Tea2Sea.
In Virginia, becoming a private investigator
is primarily about meeting DCJS requirements.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, clear a
background check and pass a 60-hour private
investigator course with at least a 70% score.
After completing the course, they can receive
their registration and begin working in the
field. Opening a private investigation agency
requires additional steps, including securing a
business license and registering with the State
Corporation Commission.
" A private investigation business must have
a physical office where files are maintained and
stored, " Akers explains, adding that this can be
a home office or a commercial space.
Akers and Ferris emphasize that a typical
ABOVE: Tom Akers, co-owner of Tea2Sea LLC, brought his
Navy veteran experience to the business.
BOTTOM: Selma Ferris, co-owner of Tea2Sea LLC,
has had an interest in private investigations since her
childhood days reading mystery novels.
day in their line of work is anything but predictable.
" You should plan what you need to
do the day before and review it as you enter
the office. Once there, this careful plan will be
displaced by putting out whatever firestorm has
happened overnight, " they say.
TheRoanoker.com
november/december 2024 29
COURTESY OF TEA2SEA
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The Roanoker Nov/Dec 2024

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