A man wearing a black pinstripe suit, white shirt, and black tie, smiling at the camera in an indoor setting.

Empire Investigation & Protective Services, Inc., is a premier provider of private investigation and security services, delivering discreet, professional, and results-driven solutions to clients. Founded in 2007 with a commitment to integrity, excellence, and client satisfaction, we combine decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology to address complex security challenges and investigative needs.

Meet the Team

Paul Gherardi, Founder of Empire Investigations & Protective Services

Biography: Paul Gherardi is a recently retired law enforcement officer with 28 years of experience. Paul retired as a Senior Special Agent with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. While serving with the BCA, Paul held assignments in homicide investigations, crime scene processing,  predatory offender investigations, and use-of-force investigations. Paul’s law enforcement career experience includes working as a deputy sheriff, undercover narcotics investigator, SWAT team member, and former SWAT team leader.

Paul is an instructor in use-of-force tactics, firearms, and emergency vehicle operation. Also, Paul has extensive training in interviews and interrogations, homicide investigations, crime scene processing, special weapons, and tactical training.

During Paul’s career with the BCA, Paul has either led, assisted, reviewed and/or worked approximately 150 homicide/death investigations and approximately 50 officer-involved shooting cases. Paul currently is an adjunct instructor with the Minnesota North College Law Enforcement Program, instructing a Street Survival class and has taught various hands-on-skills classes.

Paul has worked executive protection details for foreign dignitaries, corporate executives, and owners of professional sports teams. In Paul’s law enforcement career, he has worked alongside Secret Service details for the President of the United States, Vice President, Chief of Staff, various presidential candidates, and a foreign president.

Member of the Minnesota Private Investigator and Protective Agent Association.

Private Investigator license number 1009 and Protective Agent license number 1197

  • Proven Expertise: Our investigators and security specialists bring real-world experience from elite backgrounds, ensuring precision and reliability.

  • Discreet Operations: We prioritize your privacy, operating with minimal visibility to deliver seamless protection and investigations.

  • Tailored Solutions: Every case and client receives a customized approach, designed to address specific risks and objectives.

  • Client-Centric Focus: Your trust is our foundation. We provide transparent communication, timely updates, and unwavering dedication to your needs.