CONCORD — Forget the deerstalker hats and gold Pontiac Firebirds. Instead, picture a few mustaches that would make Tom Selleck proud. Real private investigators (PIs) are far from the light-hearted heroes of TV shows like “Magnum, P.I.” and “The Rockford Files.” Their work, though filled with wild stories, is much messier than a single episode can portray.
Gathering of the Investigators
Last weekend, members of the New Hampshire League of Investigators (NHLI) gathered at Passaconaway Outing Club for a picnic, networking, and sharing tales from the field. Quentin “Butch” Estey, a former chief of police in Peterborough, was among those honored for his dedication to the NHLI. At 75, Estey received a plaque commemorating his over 25 years as a private investigator since his “retirement” from law enforcement.
The Dynamic Duo
Estey, alongside his wife Karen, runs Community Improvement Associates and Estey Associates, based in Keene. The couple met when Karen was a State Police dispatcher, and Butch was a trooper. Married for 40 years, they share a passion for helping people in crisis.
“I had a family that asked me to find their son, who they hadn’t heard from in a long time,” Butch recounted. “In about 10 minutes, I found him. We had a heartwarming father-son talk, and he called his parents right there.”
The Esteys specialize in aiding individuals looking to turn their lives around after issues like substance abuse, sexual offenses, domestic violence, and anger management. “We work with people who have made mistakes and need to learn from them to move on,” Karen explained.
Heartwarming and Heartbreaking Stories
Their work isn’t just about solving cases; it’s about making a difference. They once facilitated a private adoption for a pregnant woman they knew, connecting her with a suitable out-of-state couple. However, not every story ends happily. Whether it’s an infidelity case, custody battle, or crash reconstruction, PIs often step in where police and lawyers cannot due to staffing or expertise constraints.
Analyzing Alibis
NHLI President Bill Losefsky, a former police sergeant and prosecutor, specializes in statement and handwriting analysis. He’s worked on both defense and prosecution sides, verifying alibis and detecting lies.
In one memorable case, a man was cleared of wrongdoing due to his unusual dessert order—a banana split without the banana. The waitress and server both confirmed his alibi, proving he couldn’t have committed the crime.
Innovative Surveillance
In another case, Losefsky was hired to follow a man suspected of violating a business agreement. The suspect’s driving speed made traditional tailing impossible, so Losefsky marked the truck with painter’s tape and used an aerial pilot for surveillance. The evidence confirmed the violation, closing the case.
Join the NHLI
For more captivating stories and to learn more about the work of New Hampshire’s private investigators, visit NHLI.
