Verifying a Heavy-Duty Work Truck in Dallas–Fort Worth

The situation

A client had an interest in a specialized six-wheel-drive work truck kept at a business in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. They had a photograph and some assurances, but nobody they trusted had seen it. A photo can’t show whether a drive system engages or whether the lights work. They asked us to go and look, and to record what we saw.

Our approach

The visit needed care. We had to reach the vehicle without escalating anything, rely on the cooperation of people who had no obligation to help, and produce video that would hold up if anyone questioned it later. A vehicle authorization form also had to reach the right person.

What we found

• First visit: The person responsible was away. Investigators left the authorization form with a staff member, noted who received it and when a follow-up was agreed, and recorded full video of the truck to fix its condition and location that day.
• Second visit: A week later, investigators met the person responsible and a production manager. Once a vehicle parked in front was moved, the inspection went ahead.
• The ride-along: An investigator rode in the cab and recorded the six-wheel-drive system working while the truck was driven, then recorded the tail lights working.

The outcome

The client received a dated file with the original video, a record of the paperwork delivered, inspection photographs and ride-along footage showing both systems working. No one had to take anyone’s word for it.

Names and identifying details have been changed, and this case is shared with the client’s permission.

See our work in Dallas and our asset searches.