I accept LE assistance whenever offered. Especially since I do most of my out of state investigations by myself. I always check in with local Leo's, ask them to verify my warrants, confirm that my fugitive is in NCIC, and then ask them to check for local warrants as well. If a local hit comes back then it gives them a motive for assisting me.
Like Steve said, it doesn't matter who actually cuffs the fugitive, I still get paid. If the local LE keeps my guy, I just have them sign a "body tag"..aka prisoner reciept form stating that john doe fugitive is now in thier custody. I return that document to my bondsman so he can show it to the judge for exoneration.
Often times this can even be accomplished by telephone on out of state skips.
I have gotten fairly good at contacting LE fugitive squads and cultivating a professional rapport with an investigator. I then send him/her all of the case intel, including the NCIC warrant #, and asking them to check whatever address I have out. It's a win-win situation. They get credit for a felony arrest, the bondsman gets exonerated, and I get paid.
This method has helped me to establish personal credibility with multiple jurisdictions in various states. Upon case closure, I usually send the police chief or sheriff some sort of thank you letter or certificate of appreciation. This is all a part of doing pr and possibly opening up relationships with LE's that previously were reluctant to assist us.
It's all about respecting the badge, and thier jurisdictions. Plus I don't have to travel, chase anyone, fight anyone, kick down any doors, or possibly shoot anyone. It totally reduces my liability.
It works for me...
Take care and God Bless,
Ruffin.
