Michael K. Adelstein | Founder & Lead Investigator

Michael K. Adelstein brings more than 25 years of professional experience to Arch Private Investigations, drawing from a career that spans private investigations, law enforcement, loss prevention, and emergency medical services.

His investigative career began in the mid-1990s with asset protection roles at major retailers including TJ Maxx and Barneys New York, where he investigated internal theft, credit card fraud, and employee dishonesty. He then served as a claims investigator for Crawford & Company's City of Chicago unit, managing approximately 150 active case files with a 100% closure and compliance rate. From there, he moved into independent private investigation work in Chicago, eventually founding and operating Illinois Investigative Agency from 2005 to 2010. He then relocated to Florida, where he ran Covert Affairs Investigations, Inc. from 2012 through 2025, conducting insurance fraud investigations, surveillance, background checks, and witness interviews.

His law enforcement background includes service as a reserve police officer with departments in Blue Springs and Riverview, Missouri, where he conducted criminal investigations, patrol operations, and testified in state court proceedings.

Beyond investigations, Michael is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician with over six years of EMS experience, including 911 response, disaster deployments with FEMA for Hurricanes Ian and Idalia, and event medical coverage for film productions and large-scale events. He also volunteers with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, supporting boating safety and public education initiatives.

He holds a Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Truman State University.