Candidates 2026-2027 - California Association of Licensed Investigators

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2026-2027 CALI ELECTIONS – MEET THE CANDIDATES

The California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Elections Committee is pleased to announce the Candidates for the 2026-2027 CALI Board of Directors term. All positions are two-year terms beginning on January 1, 2026, and ending on December 31, 2027.

Please take a moment to read the candidates' campaign statements. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the candidates directly via the email link next to their names.

Online voting starts on October 15, 2025, and ends at 5:00 p.m. PST on October 31, 2025.

All Active and Lifetime Members are eligible voting members and will receive the Official CALI ballot by email on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. If you are an eligible voting member and do not receive your ballot, please email the CALI office at info@cali-pi.org.

IMPORTANT ELECTION DATES
October 1, 2025: Virtual Candidates Forum.
October 15, 2025: Ballots emailed to voting members.
October 31, 2025: Ballots due by 5:00 pm (PT).
November 3, 2025: Election results announced to members.

CANDIDATES FOR OFFICER POSITIONS

Candidate for CALI President

Roberto A. Rivera | Email Roberto

I joined CALI in 1997, and since then, I have had the honor of serving in several roles that have deepened my commitment to CALI’s mission and membership. From District Governor and Director at Large to Vice President of Investigative Services, and Chair of the Unlicensed Practices, Scholarship, Conference, and now NLITE Committee — each experience has reinforced my dedication to our profession.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside many of you and have gained a deep appreciation for the dedication and passion that drive CALI’s mission. I believe my experience, professionalism, vision, service, and commitment to our shared goals have prepared me to lead with integrity, transparency, and collaboration.

I have a long history of service to CALI and remain dedicated to advancing its mission. I have served on multiple committees, taken active roles in planning and supporting CALI initiatives, and consistently volunteered my time. Through this hands-on involvement, leadership, and commitment, I have worked to strengthen our community, advocate for members, and create meaningful opportunities for growth. I am prepared to continue serving with integrity, transparency, and action.

Beyond CALI, I have always been committed to volunteering in the broader community. I am a past officer and president of different Kiwanis Service clubs I have belonged to, and I continue to be active in my local Kiwanis Club. I volunteer my time with service projects and community events, always striving to give back. I believe strongly in treating everyone with dignity and respect, and I am generous with my time and knowledge in both professional and community settings.

In 2023, I was honored to receive the Investigator of the Year and President’s Awards from CALI, a recognition of which I am deeply proud.

As President, I will work to continue advancing our profession, supporting our members, and ensuring that our Association remains a leader in advocacy, education, and professional excellence.

I am proud to be supporting and running alongside CALI Vice-President Candidate, Chad Ragan, united in a vision that focuses on the following:

Increasing member retention

Expanding networking opportunities

Recruiting and welcoming new members

Implementing non-dues revenue sources

Enhancing District Director involvement

Promoting Big-3 Member recruitment

Advancing professional development and online training

I am also honored to be endorsed by past CALI Presidents Mark McClain, Chris Reynolds, Michael Julian, Anne Fields, Francie Koehler, and current President Frank Huntington.

It would be a privilege to have your vote and support in my candidacy for CALI President, and I look forward to continuing to serve CALI and our profession.

Thank you,

Roberto A. Rivera, CPI

Candidate for CALI Vice President

Ken Childs | Email Ken

Candidate for CALI Vice President

Chad Ragan | Email Chad

I have been a proud and dedicated CALI member since 2008 and have served on the Board since 2010. I bring the experience, reliability, passion, and vision needed to continue advancing CALI’s growth and success. Over the years, I have gained invaluable insight into CALI’s mission and its impact on our profession. I have served in several leadership roles, including Central Coast District Governor, Central Coast District Director, Director at Large, and currently Vice President of Administrative Services. In this role, I have overseen and supported CALI’s districts, encouraged engagement, and promoted communication across regions. I have also helped facilitate local mixers and networking events to strengthen member connections and build community.

I have been an active contributor through committee service, chairing the Scholarship, Golf Tournament, Conference, and Audit Committees, and participating in the Listserv and Membership Committees. I have also consistently volunteered and served at CALI’s conferences, giving my time to support members and ensure these events are successful. In 2023, I was honored with the CALI President’s Award, a recognition that reflects my dedication to CALI and its members.

As Vice President, I am committed to expanding opportunities for members to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate on best practices. I will continue to support policies and initiatives that elevate the profession, enhance training programs and resources, and foster mentorship opportunities for both new and seasoned investigators.

I am proud to be supporting and running alongside CALI President Candidate Roberto Rivera, united in a vision that focuses on:

Increasing member retention

Expanding networking opportunities

Recruiting and welcoming new members

Implementing non-dues revenue sources

Enhancing District Director involvement

Promoting Big-3 Member recruitment

Advancing professional development and online training

I am honored to be endorsed by past CALI Presidents Mark McClain, Chris Reynolds, Michael Julian, Anne Fields, and current President Frank Huntington.

I respectfully ask for your vote and support in my candidacy for Vice President. Together, we can continue to strengthen CALI as a supportive and impactful resource for all investigators.

Thank you,

Chad Ragan

Candidate for Secretary

Mayra Mira | Email Mayra

I am honored to announce my candidacy for a second term as Secretary of the California Association of Licensed Investigators. Since becoming a licensed Private Investigator and CALI member in 2013, I have proudly dedicated more than a decade of service to advancing our association’s mission.

My experience includes four prior terms on the Board of Directors, serving as both North Bay District Director, Governor, and Secretary. I am well-versed in Board meeting protocols, motions, and the importance of accurate, timely minutes. Beyond my officer service, I have consistently volunteered in critical roles — from the Scholarship, Fundraising, and Conference Committees to CALI’s Legislative Day lobbying efforts in our State Capital. I have also attended “Hit the Hill” in Washington, D.C., to represent CALI’s mission. I have personally recruited new members, reached out to emerging investigators, and hosted multi-district events that strengthen our professional community.

The Secretary’s role demands diligence, integrity, and active engagement with the membership. I bring all three. I commit to producing detailed and timely minutes, attending every Board meeting in person when required, and maintaining the Board’s Policy and Procedures Manual with precision. I will continue to work closely with the Board Chair to ensure the smooth and effective operation of our association.

But my vision extends beyond the Secretarial duties. I believe CALI’s strength lies in education, training, and networking — tools that help us grow not only as professionals, but also as a statewide association. My focus is on expanding opportunities, keeping our membership engaged, and making CALI more accessible to the next generation of investigators while honoring the foundation built by those who served before us.

I deeply respect the contributions of our long-serving members and officers. At the same time, I believe CALI is best served by a balance of experience and fresh energy. I offer that balance: proven leadership, modern perspectives, and an unwavering commitment to ethical service.

On 10/15/2025, when the CALI Ballots are available to you, I humbly ask for your vote and your trust to continue serving CALI with the energy, integrity, professionalism, and dedication our association deserves. Together, we will strengthen CALI’s future with leadership that I have proven to be ethical and prepared for the future.

Candidate for Secretary

Anna Stowe | Email Anna

My name is Anna Stowe, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for Secretary of the California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI).

For more than 25 years, I have owned and operated Proven Private Investigators, a licensed and insured agency specializing in surveillance, criminal defense, medical malpractice defense, insurance defense, mitigation services, and professional licensing investigations. Over the course of my career, I have built not only a thriving investigative practice but also a reputation for mentoring new investigators, advancing professional standards, and creating opportunities for others to succeed.

Within CALI, I currently serve as Chairperson of the Professional Development Committee, where I coordinate and host monthly educational webinars that provide members with practical training, valuable insights, and opportunities to expand their investigative skills. This role has reinforced the importance of communication, organization, and collaboration—all essential qualities for the position of Secretary. I have also contributed to the Conference Committee, working alongside the Executive Director, President, Vice Presidents, and fellow members to deliver outstanding conferences for our community, including our FALI and TALI colleagues.

My commitment to CALI is longstanding. I have consistently contributed to the CALI Journal with articles highlighting investigative strategies, legislative updates, and mitigation practices that strengthen our profession statewide. Additionally, my six years as Sacramento District Director, preceded by my service as District Governor, have enabled me to foster strong connections between members locally and across California, encouraging engagement and collaboration at every level.

As Secretary, I will bring:

Proven organizational skills developed through decades of managing complex investigations and leading a multi-investigator agency.

Clear, effective communication to ensure CALI members remain informed, engaged, and supported.

A dedication to mentorship and professional growth, continuing to create pathways for investigators at all stages of their careers.

A steadfast belief that CALI’s Board exists to serve its members, elevate the ethics and reputation of our profession, and act without personal interest or ego.

CALI has been a professional home to me throughout my career, and I deeply believe in its mission. Serving as Secretary would allow me to continue giving back to the association that has enriched my professional life, while supporting the Board in guiding CALI into the future.

I respectfully ask for your support and your vote for Secretary of CALI. Together, we can strengthen our association, uplift our members, and ensure CALI continues to be the voice of investigative excellence in California.

Candidate for Treasurer

Anne Fields | Email Anne

I have been working as a private investigator since 1984 and a member of CALI since 1987. I have extensive experience conducting Criminal Defense Investigations, Administrative Investigations and Trial Preparation.

I have extensive experience serving the members of CALI as the San Jose District Governor and the San Jose District Director (9 terms), a Director at Large, the Vice President of Investigative, the Vice President of Administrative Services, CALI President and the Treasurer. I have served on several committees and I have been the Chair of the Budget , Unlicensed Practices, Scholarship, Bylaws and Historian Committees.

In 2003, I received the CALI Investigator of the Year Award and in 2022, I received the CALI Distinguished Achievement Award. During my career, I have been a mentor to several new private investigators.

I seek to serve another term as the CALI Treasurer because I believe CALI needs to stick to a budget. I have proven I have the skills and personality to do the job. My goals are to work with the board to make CALI meet the budget or make a profit. I will do all that I can to ensure that CALI will not have a deficit at the end of the term.

I will perform my duties even when it is difficult or awkward. I understand the history of CALI and the association’s strengths and weaknesses.

I have served on the CALI Board of Directors during the most difficult of times. I will work hard to keep the board operating within the budget.

I ask for your vote for CALI Treasurer.

DIRECTOR-At-Large CANDIDATES (two positions)

Candidate for Director-At-Large

Jay Paulino | Email Jay

It would be an honor and a privilege to be considered for the position of Director-at-Large with the California Association of Licensed Investigators. Since 2018, I have dedicated my time to serving CALI in leadership roles, always with the goal of strengthening our community of professionals.

In 2019 and 2020, I was recognized as Governor of the Year, and in 2022, I had the privilege of receiving the Investigator of the Year award. That same year, I successfully completed my term as a Board Director. One of my proudest moments was seeing my district governor awarded Governor of the Year in 2022—an achievement that reflected not only his commitment but also the strength and teamwork within our district.

As Director-at-Large, my intentions are simple: to continue learning, to remain available to serve our members, and to contribute wherever help is needed. I believe that leadership means listening, supporting others, and building opportunities for success within our association.

It would be an honor to receive your support and your vote for this position.

Respectfully,

Jay Paulino

Candidate for Director-At-Large

Mitchell Rowland | Email Mitchell

I have been a member of CALI for a total of 18 years. I have served as the Director of the San Joaquin South District for the past 4 years. I would now like to serve as your Director At Large.

The position of Director At Large has two main responsibilities. The first is to make himself or herself available to the CALI President for special assignments. This is a critical undertaking and requires that the Director At Large be able to serve on a moments notice and complete tasks in a timely manner and report back to the President or Board of Directors with results.

The second and equally important responsibility is to stand in as District Director of any District that has experienced a loss of their District Director, whether temporarily or permanently. This may require travelling to the effected District to hold District meetings or mixers. The Director At Large would also seek out a new candidate from that District to eventually serve as the Director of that District.

Both of these responsibilities require that the Director At Large BE AVAILABLE. Having recently retired, I am available for any special assignment the President may give me. I am centrally located in the State and can travel north or south from Bakersfield to assist in any District where I am needed.

If elected as your Director At Large, I promise to work with the Vice President to monitor all districts to ensure the Director is holding mixers and keeping the members informed of any important legislative changes that may affect their job as a Private Investigator.

I should also mention that I get great satisfaction in mentoring newly licensed investigators. In the past year I have mentored at least four individuals and assisted them when they had questions on how to proceed or where to find information necessary to complete their investigation. If elected, I will make myself available to the members for any questions they may have, and I will willingly share the knowledge I have of this profession with any CALI member who is in need.

I humbly ask for your vote.

Mitch Rowland

Candidate for Director-At-Large

Mason Washington | Email Mason

It is with great enthusiasm that I submit my candidacy for the position of Director-at-Large of CALI. Over the course of my career in investigations, law enforcement, logistics, and private security, I have come to deeply value CALI’s role in advancing our profession and fostering excellence among its members. I am eager to contribute my skills, experience, and dedication to supporting the Association and serving our Northern region.

I bring more than a decade of combined experience across both public service and the private sector. My career began in the United States Marine Corps, where I served as a logistics specialist and later re-enlisted as a military policeman. In those roles, I was entrusted with leadership responsibilities as a patrol supervisor, platoon sergeant, emergency communications manager, physical security specialist, and security director. I was proud to be peer-recognized as “Most Motivated” during the Marine Corps Sergeant’s Leadership Course.

Following an honorable discharge, I transitioned into the private sector, where I strengthened my leadership skills as a sales manager and personal trainer before pursuing my lifelong goal of executive protection. I earned my Certified Protection Specialist (CPS) designation through Executive Security International and my Certified Professional Investigator (CPI) certification through CALI itself. Along the way, I have completed extensive training in emergency response, evasive driving, and executive protection protocols. Today, I provide protection and investigative services to high-net-worth, high-visibility, and high-value clients both domestically and internationally.

I have also been deeply involved in CALI leadership for nearly a decade. I served as a district governor for six years and have been a district director for nearly two years. These roles allowed me to support members directly, promote professional development, and strengthen engagement across our Association.

If elected Northern Director at Large, I will work to:

Infuse CALI with fresh energy to keep our Association vibrant and future-focused.

Introduce modern ideas that embrace innovation, new perspectives, and best practices from across the profession.

Strengthen member engagement by promoting opportunities for connection, education, and mentorship throughout the Northern region.

A steadfast belief that CALI’s Board exists to serve its members, elevate the ethics and reputation of our profession, and act without personal interest or ego.

I am committed to representing our members with integrity, professionalism, and energy. I believe my background in both military and private sector leadership, combined with my investigative expertise and CALI leadership experience, uniquely positions me to serve effectively in this role.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am honored to be part of this Association and would be grateful for the opportunity to represent you as Director at Large.

Respectfully,

Mason Washington, CPS, CPI

DISTRICT DIRECTOR CANDIDATES

Candidate for Central Coast District Director

Jay Rosenzweig  |  Email Jay

I’m thrilled to share that I wish to continue my service to CALI on the Board of Directors, not as Director-at-Large, but in the role of Central Coast District Director for the 2026-2027 term.

I have two main reasons for this choice:
It allows someone else to step into the open position of Director-at-Large. Additionally, if elected, I can continue to serve CALI as its Chairman of the Board for another two years, should the Board decide to re-elect me.

Many of you have joined me at my home in Paso Robles for CALI events in my backyard over the years. I hope to make that an annual tradition.

This district spans nearly 300 miles along the coast. Besides Paso Robles. I would like to arrange a Central Coast mixer earlier in the year between Thousand Oaks and Santa Barbara for the members residing in the Southern part of the district.

I have proudly served CALI for the past 40 years in various roles, including past President. I believe my CALI volunteer career speaks volumes, as I was honored with CALI’s highest accolade in 2021, the Distinguished Achievement Award.

I am honored to be endorsed by our Vice President of Administrative Services, Chad Ragan, who is also a member of the Central Coast District.

I value your membership with CALI and hope you will support my desire to represent the Central Coast. If you have any questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Candidate for Central Coast District Director

Shannon Tulloss | Email Shannon

I am Shannon Tulloss, again am respectfully requesting your support for the Central Coast District Director position within CALI. With over three decades of proven leadership, I would like to outline my ongoing commitment to advancing our profession. If elected on this second attempt, I pledge to serve our profession - not my self-interests - but our shared goals.

Professional Foundation & Statistics
My career and training began as an independent insurance claims adjuster, where I recognized the need for client-centered, integrity-fueled investigative services. This insight led me to establish my own nationwide firm in 1997.

Career: 1987-present | Licensed PI: 1997, AA and BA degree, OSC and CCII certifications
PI Magazine Top Ten Investigator 2024 (national recognition)
"Best Private Investigator" Santa Clarita Signal: 11 consecutive years (2014-present)
Nearly 1,700 LinkedIn connections worldwide-where it counts
Former CALI District Governor
Memberships: SCFIA, CALI, NALI, Intellenet, Ventura County Bar, Women Lawyers of Ventura County
Former foster parent, current adoptive parent, Dave Thomas Foundation honors: 5 consecutive years for adoption-friendly workplace

District Leadership
Six years ago, I moved my home and office space to the Central Coast District and have since cultivated personal relationships with local and state legislators and legal leadership inside and outside CALI events. Legislators recognize me by name when I call, which is invaluable political capital for our profession. Since 2013, I’ve been a requested speaker at law conferences and podcasts nationwide and have stayed deeply involved in professional and investigative organizations.

Vision
Our industry faces a trust deficit with lawmakers and the public. Media misconceptions have skewed perceptions of our legitimate work. As District Director, I will continue my focus on strategic education to clearly communicate our professional skills and ethical standards to the public and legal groups nationwide. This will also result in an increase in and retention of our membership.

My Commitments

Advocate relentlessly for PI interests in California legislative and regulatory discussions
Champion strategic legislation by meeting personally with representatives outside CALI Legislative Day
Educate the public by championing our successes through social media, building our professional brand
Continue relationship building by networking within our industry to reduce investigator isolation
Bridge communication gaps with law enforcement, legal professionals, and regulatory bodies

Your support empowers focused engagement and meaningful collaboration with CALI leadership to advance our profession. I bring decades of investigative experience, strong legislative partnerships, and a proven record of delivering results. Now is the time to embrace new, forward-looking leadership and a fresh perspective that reflects the evolving needs of our industry. CALI must continue to adapt, innovate, and grow, and that requires leaders who bring new insight and energy to the role. At the core, our strength lies in prioritizing what benefits us collectively, because together, we rise.

Thank you for your consideration.

Shannon Tulloss

Candidate for East Bay District Director

Charles Rafferty | Email Charles

My Name is Charles E. Rafferty, Board Certified Criminal Defense Investigator. This is my formal statement of intent to run for the East Bay Directors position for the up-and-coming term (2026/2027). I have been the East Bay Director for the last four years and an active and committed member of Cali for last 25 years.

I have held the following position during this time.

California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Elections Committee Chairman
California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Board of Directors (East Bay)
California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Board of Directors (East Bay District Governor)
California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Board of Directors (North Bay District Director)
California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Education/Conference Committee
California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) Member

Board Certified Criminal Defense Investigator (CCDI)
Board Certified Forensic Investigator-Forensic Testimonial Evidence Recovery
(CFI-FTER) Testimonial Evidence Invest), Board Certified Forensic Death (CFDI)
Private Investigator California license #22025
Registered Process Server/Copy Service
Certified Paralegal, Legal Document Assistant
Executive Protection Operative
Bail Enforcement Agent (Lead)
Criminal Law Intern Instructor/FTO

During my career, I have held the following positions and have sought nothing but the best for my fellow Cali Members who were seeking my assistance. I believe that we should focus on the ever-changing laws. Therefore, I am the best candidate Cali is looking to fill the position of East Bay District Director 2026/2027.

Thank you, for taking the time in considering me for position of East Bay District Director in the upcoming elections.

Candidate for Golden Valley District Director

Todd Orlando | Email Todd

Hello ladies and gentlemen of the CALI Golden Valley District! Approximately 5 months ago, I was designated to be the Golden Valley District Director because this position had been vacant for some time. Since that time, I have planned social networking events where I have had the pleasure of connecting with so many of you on a more personal level. I am so appreciative of all of you that took time out of your busy day to join us! We have received so much positive feedback!

Since the term is now ending, I will be seeking to be elected by the esteemed members of the Golden Valley District for the upcoming 2 year term. Even though I have only been the District Director for a brief time, I believe we have been able to accomplish so much. Along with planning the social networking events, I have been the liaison between you and CALI where I have shared information from board meetings and also shared any concerns that you have had with the CALI board. I am very much looking forward to building up our network, talking about complex cases, or simply sharing funny stories in a lighthearted setting. I will also be inviting guest speakers who will educate us on topics that will enhance our knowledge as private investigators. Thank you all for your time and your vote!

Candidate for Inland Empire District Director

Juan Alarcon | Email Juan

My name is Juan Alarcon, and I’m honored to seek your support as a candidate for Inland Empire District Director. I’ve been a proud member of CALI for the past five years, and during that time, I’ve made it a priority to serve our association with dedication and heart.

For four of those years, I’ve been an active member of the Listserv Committee, including two years as Chair. In that volunteer role, I worked to ensure that our communications remained clear, timely and helped members troubleshoot any issues that may arise while trying to submit requests. I’ve also volunteered at three CALI conferences, assisting with setup, teardown, registration check-in, and anything else needed to help the events run smoothly for everyone in attendance.

As a private investigator with over 15 years of experience, I’ve spent the last five years as a licensed private investigator mentoring new professionals, sharing knowledge, and helping others navigate the challenges of our field. CALI has been a cornerstone of that journey, and I’m passionate about giving back.

If elected District Director, I will continue to foster a culture of mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth by:

Expanding mentorship opportunities for new and aspiring investigators
Promoting continuing education
Strengthening community ties through events, outreach, and shared resources
Advocating for tools and support that reflect the real-world demands of our work

I bring not only experience, but a commitment to transparency, service, and growth. My leadership style is rooted in listening, learning, and leading by example. I’ve walked the path many of you are on, balancing business, family, and education, and I’m ready to represent our district with clarity, accountability, and heart.

Thank you for considering me as your next IE District Director. I look forward to continuing our work together and building a stronger, more connected CALI community.

Warm regards,

Juan Alarcon

Candidate for Inland Empire District Director

Alison Peacock | Email Alison

I am excited to express my interest in the Director position for the Inland Empire district. With a strong foundation in law and nearly eight years of experience in private investigation, I have dedicated my career to advancing professional standards, fostering connections, and promoting education within our field.

As a licensed private investigator and Certified Professional Investigator, I currently serve as Executive Vice President at Hodson P.I., LLC, leading a skilled team in areas ranging from OSINT research to surveillance and complex legal investigations. I have had the privilege of sharing my knowledge and experience as a speaker at multiple conferences— including CALI—covering topics such as surveillance techniques, social media, OSINT, ethics, and trial considerations. These experiences have deepened my commitment to education and mentoring the next generation of investigators.

The CALI association has been an invaluable resource for me, along with my mentor,
offering the opportunity to learn from experienced members across the state. It has inspired me to give back and support others in the profession through mentorship, education, and community building.

Beyond my professional work, I am passionate about building community and fostering meaningful connections across our district. I also believe in maintaining balance and enjoying life outside of work. In my spare time, I enjoy golfing, reading comic books, and spending quality time with my family—activities that keep me grounded and energized.

If elected Director, I will bring a focus on education, collaboration, and service to the Inland Empire district—ensuring that our members are supported, connected, and empowered to succeed in a rapidly evolving field.

Candidate for Los Angeles District Director

Howard Dratch | Email Howard

I am announcing my candidacy for re-election for the position of Los Angeles District Director. During the coming period I would be honored and delighted to continue to serve on the CALI Board of Directors to represent the views and interests of our LA members, and to do my best to grow and develop our organization state-wide.

Since joining CALI fourteen years ago, I have learned and benefited in countless ways from the enhanced professional skills and interpersonal comradeship provided by our organization. In the coming term, it is my intention to do whatever I can to strengthen the bonds that unite us and foster the activities that address our collective interests.

During this past year, our Los Angeles members have gathered together on several occasions, characterized by a healthy mix of old CALI veterans and newly joined P.I.’s.

As District Director I have been in steady touch with the district membership by telephone and email. These outreach efforts have included: a) telephone calls welcoming new LA District members to CALI, b) sending email reminders of upcoming educational webinars on Zoom, which are quite popular, c) inviting our colleagues to attend Leg Day, and reminding them of its importance, d) encouraging members to attend this year’s annual CALI conference in the Sonoma wine country, and e) personally answering phone calls and emails about questions regarding the new state-required contract terms and the availability of CALI’s model contracts sent out on July 1, 2025.

I am looking forward to an exciting and productive year ahead for the Los Angeles district. If reelected, I will continue to advocate for each of our members and to work to strengthen our community. Specifically, I intend to focus increased attention on recruiting and welcoming new members, expanding on networking opportunities, and advancing on-line training and professional development.

As always, I am available for questions, comments, and suggestions. Thank you.

Candidate for North Bay District Director

Cheryl Paris | Email Cheryl

My name is Cheryl Paris, and I am a licensed private investigator and owner of Paris Investigations, based in the North Bay. I have been a member of the California Association of Licensed Investigators since 2023 and have proudly served our community with a focus on criminal defense investigations. Over the past year, I have attended several North Bay District events and have become well acquainted with many of our members, strengthening my commitment to serving this community.

With approximately 15 years of law enforcement investigative experience and over two years as a licensed private investigator, I bring both field expertise and proven leadership. My leadership background includes serving as a Police Corporal, Vice President of the Police Officers Association, and Treasurer of the Police Officers Association. I believe CALI thrives when we strengthen member connections, provide valuable training, and advocate for our profession at the state level.

As North Bay District Director, I will work to expand networking opportunities, support legislative initiatives, and foster mentorship among members.

I appreciate your consideration and would be honored to represent the North Bay District with integrity, dedication, and professionalism.

Candidate for Orange District Director

Erika Thompson | Email Erika

My name is Erika Thompson, owner of Valiente-Thompson Investigations, and I am honored to be a candidate for the Orange District Director. I bring extensive leadership and investigative experience, having served 30 years as a Criminal Defense Investigator with the Public Defender’s Office, along with many years of volunteer service with the Defense Investigators Association (DIA). I have been a Licensed Private Investigator since 2018.

I have been a DIA member since 2000 and served on the Board from 2016 to 2024 - holding the executive position of Vice President from 2022 through 2024 and Interim President from late 2023 to 2024. I was part of numerous DIA committees—Investigator of the Year, Scholarship, Historian, Membership, Products, and Conference Chair—and proudly chaired the Annual DIA Conference in 2023 and 2024. In that role, I organized all aspects of planning, including selecting speakers, securing venues, coordinating travel logistics, and contingency planning to ensure the event ran smoothly and successfully. I also contributed my time to the Defense Investigators Training Academy (DITA), supporting weeklong professional training, and I continue to serve as a Scholarship Reviewer for San Francisco State University.

Since joining CALI in 2023, I have volunteered wherever is needed and had the privilege of learning from dedicated members. Most recently, I served on the CALI Scholarship Committee and volunteered at the annual conference and NLITE earlier this year.

My connection to CALI’s Orange District began long before starting my own business. I began attending district meetings as a non-licensed private investigator, while I was a Public Defender Investigator. Those meetings were invaluable, providing networking, learning, guidance, and support as I began to build my private investigation career. I know firsthand how important these meetings are for new and seasoned investigators, and as District Director, I want to ensure that same support continues, helping members feel welcomed, connected, and equipped to succeed.

I am eager to bring my leadership and professional development experience to serve the Orange District, expand networking and mentorship opportunities where members can connect, share knowledge, and learn from one another. I aim to grow our membership by welcoming and engaging new investigators. My vision is a stronger, more connected district where members feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive. I believe in leadership that is collaborative, transparent, and service driven.

I am known for my professionalism, collaboration, compassion, dedication, efficiency, reliability, and meticulous attention to detail. I look forward to and am committed to bringing these values to the role of Orange District Director. It would be a privilege to serve, and I humbly ask for your support and your vote to elect me as your next Orange District Director. I look forward to the opportunity to continue contributing to CALI’s growth and success.

With gratitude and respect,

Erika Thompson

Candidate for Sacramento District Director

Robert Artigo | Email Robert

Candidate for San Francisco District Director

Lindon Lilly | Email Lindon

It has been a privilege to serve you as Director of the San Francisco District. With one full term completed, I am now seeking re-election as your District Director.

My platform remains focused on legislation—the lifeblood of our profession. I am committed to staying informed and engaged with all CALI issues in Sacramento, as well as broader developments in the legal industry. This includes actively monitoring bills like AB-747 and advocating for our profession not only in California but also at the federal level in Washington, D.C.

I believe it is essential to keep my ear to the ground on matters that directly affect our work and ensure that the voices of investigators are heard where decisions are made.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Candidate for San Joaquin South District Director

R. Lola La Fontaine | Email Lola

I respectfully submit my candidacy for election to the CALI Board of Investigators for the position of the Regional Director for the South San Joaquin Valley, for the upcoming election 2025. As a long-term member of CALI and recognizing the value of the extended education provided by the gatherings of the members, I am honored to run for this position.

With a background in Law Enforcement and retired from the Los Angeles Police Department and two decades of experience in security leadership and complex investigations. I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to CALI’s Board mission.

My career has involved managing high-risk investigations, coordinating with law enforcement and legal teams and developing threat mitigation strategies across corporate and media environments. I’ve led initiatives that enhanced interagency collaboration, including the formation of the Hollywood Partnership with LAPD, and have trained teams in emergency response, executive protection, and civil/criminal case handling.

If elected, I will actively support the retention and recruitment of qualified investigators, promote professional development and ensure members are kept informed of legislative changes and emerging crime tends that impact our field. I am committed to transparency, collaboration, and strengthening the validity of our profession.

Thank you for your consideration. I would be honored to serve and represent the South San Joaquin Valley Private Investigator community for CALI.

Offering my commitment and experience,

Lola La Fontaine

Candidate for San Jose District Director

Tracey Kroot | Email Tracey

My name is Tracey Kroot, owner of Kroot Private Investigations, LLC. I am again running for the position of District Director for the San Jose District. I served as District Governor for the San Jose district since early Covid times in 2000, and I’m finishing up my 6th year as either a District Governor and later as District Direction. During the challenging Covid season, we began with two zoom training sessions, the first with attorney Allen Sawyer on the case review for former 49er Dana Stubblefield (he has been released and his case is before the Supreme Court of California), and the difficulties we had with the judge and his rulings, and the targets for our appeal. The second one was also great with international investigators from Australia who deal worldwide with scammers, how they do it, and the opportunities they have for our business with difficult locates.

In 2022 we held our first in-person training session with a dinner at The Palms Restaurant in Los Gatos, we were given the dedicated top floor complementary, and had a fascinating speaker from Special Operations. SO is a private nonprofit organization that searches for minors in jeopardy of being sexually trafficked. We ended 2023 with a bang at an Irish Pub for St. Patrick’s day for a joint mixer with San Francisco in Palo Alto, it was well attended, the food was great, lots of mixing went on!

For the past two years we have also had combined district mixers, including San Jose, San Francisco, and Contra Costa Counties, and several members from other districts have joined us at the Lazy Dog Restaurant in San Mateo. This year will be our third, on December 2nd, and it is our Toys for Tots fundraisers to donate to the Marines for distribution and to mingle with a little holiday cheer.

My background includes over 10 years as a Licensed Private Investigator, 17 years as a Sr. Criminal Investigator with the District Attorney’s Office, County of Santa Clara, and I have over 30 years in investigations. I have a primarily all woman company, with subsets of investigators that include genealogy, social media, and most recently began with some computer forensics.

I’ve enjoyed my interaction with the Cali members and would look forward to serving as District Director in the next term. Thank you!

Candidate for South Bay/Long Beach District Director

Ernie Gomez | Email Ernie

I have been a proud member of the California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) since 2019 and bring 27 years of experience in law enforcement to my work as a licensed private investigator. My professional focus is in workplace and criminal investigations, where I apply a depth of experience in fact-finding, interviewing, and evidence analysis to support both organizational and individual needs.

In addition to my investigative work, I have a strong background in leadership and public service. I served as Chair of the City of Santa Ana Personnel Board for two years, where I helped guide policy and ensure fairness in personnel decisions. I have also held leadership positions in both county and statewide law enforcement associations, building strong relationships and advocating for professional standards across agencies.

My commitment to advancing the field extends into education and training development, where I have worked to design and deliver programs that prepare investigators and law enforcement professionals to meet today’s complex challenges. As South Bay / Long Beach Director, I would bring this same dedication to supporting our members, fostering collaboration, and strengthening CALI’s role as the leading voice for our profession.

Thank you,

Ernie Gomez