February 3, 2025

Dear Valued Members,

I hope this letter finds you well and thriving. As part of our continuous commitment to provide the best resources and learning opportunities, we are thrilled to announce several exciting updates and initiatives that we believe will greatly benefit our membership.

New Courses

We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting a two-day training course in advanced interviewing techniques (ITL2) presented by Jim Smyth (virtually). Jim will be providing instruction which will include the use of ORBIT, the only scientifically proven method of interviewing and a system that is being rapidly adopted by law enforcement globally. We are also going to introduce a range of new courses for personal development designed to enhance your knowledge and assist with the CPE requirement for designation holders as well as those aspiring to obtain a designation.

• Advanced Interviewing is scheduled for May 29/30, 2025.

Pre-enrollment for those interested in the ITL2 course is open, spaces are limited so book now. Please do not forget, ITL1 is a prerequisite for ITL2. The ITL1 course is available as a self-study course on the CPIO website.

Upcoming Webinars

In addition to our new courses, we are excited to host a series of upcoming webinars featuring industry experts and thought leaders. These webinars will provide valuable insights and practical knowledge on the following subjects:

• Forensic Accounting & Private Investigations – February 19, 2025 @ 10am

• What is ITL2 (Interview Techniques Level 2) with Jim Smyth – March 5, 2024 @ 10am

• TellMe (The future of digital witness statements and reports) – April 16, 2025 @ 10am

Please mark your calendars and register in advance to secure your spot. These webinars are a fantastic way to stay updated on the latest developments and engage with professionals across various fields.

Changes by SOLGEN

As we await news from the USA regarding tariffs, so we await the next changes from the Solicitor General’s office (SOLGEN). In 2023/2024 we saw:

• Digital licensing.

• Name based PI verification (license) searches.

• Applicant obtained police checks for licensing purposes.

I think we all agree that each of these changes does present a challenge to the Private Investigation industry. From the ease at which digital licenses and police checks can be manipulated to the risk name-based verification presents to those among us that work in undercover capacities. The CPIO is maintaining a dialogue with the Registrars office at SOLGEN and we will keep you informed of any developments.

Other business

As was mentioned last year, it is necessary for the CPIO, as a non-profit organisation, to vote with regard the type of financial review to conduct for the 2024 fiscal year. As such we will be calling a Special Members meeting shortly.

We are currently aiming to hold the CPIO annual meeting on March 27, 2025, in person, as we did in 2024.

Notice will be going out soon with respect to the nominating committee for applicants to the CPIO Board of Directors. If you are interested, please let us know and we will arrange for the chair of the committee to contact you.

Designation holders; please complete your CPE Compliance form and submit it as soon as possible.

Please continue to monitor the website for further information.

It only remains for me to thank you all for your continued support, wish you all the best for 2025 and encourage you to stay safe!

Respectfully yours,

James Meadway

For the CPIO Board of Directors.