Ian Tyers, founder and CEO of Salterton, was named Investigator of the Year at the 2021 Association of British Investigators Awards - one of the most prestigious accolades in the British investigations profession. The Zena Scott-Archer Investigator of the Year Award, recognised Ian's direction of a complex, multi-year investigation that delivered exceptional outcomes for a major client and contributed significantly to the disruption of organised crime.
An Investigation of Exceptional Scale and Complexity
The investigation targeted the wholesale supply of counterfeit products through a network of importers, distributors, retailers and money launderers operating across multiple jurisdictions. From the outset, Ian designed and implemented a strategic framework - tiered according to the culpability of each suspect - that combined oopen source research, complex data analysis, covert intelligence gathering through deployment of surveillance and test purchasers, financial investigation, digital forensic analysis, partnership with public sector law enforcement when required, search advice, suspect interviewing and case file preparation culminating in private prosecutions.
The results were notable: 19 arrests and private prosecutions resulting in a combined total of 18 years' detention at the time of the award, with further trials pending; £2.2 million recovered on behalf of the client; a further £1.8 million restrained for future confiscation; and approximately £23 million worth of counterfeit goods removed from the market.
Dismantling Three Organised Crime Groups
The investigation progressively followed the supply chain upstream, identifying and targeting not only street-level retailers but the money launderers, national distributors and importers at its core. Three interconnected organised crime groups were disrupted and dissolved. One convicted distributor, found in possession of £2.25 million in counterfeit goods and linked to known Mafia connections, received a sentence of six years and eight months - upheld on appeal.
Ian personally led or directed a number of the key investigative phases, including interview strategies that secured critical admissions, the co-ordination of controlled delivery operations, and the briefing of Metropolitan Police, Northampton Police and Border Force teams at each stage.
An International Dimension
The investigation extended well beyond domestic borders. Intelligence gathered was shared with Europol at The Hague, co-ordinating activity across multiple European jurisdictions. Evidence passed to French authorities resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods and a prosecution in Paris. Further intelligence relating to narcotics supply, human trafficking, fraud and money laundering was disseminated to Romanian, Italian and international law enforcement agencies.
Prevention and Long-Term Resilience
Alongside the criminal and civil proceedings, the investigation team and other specialists brought in by Ian worked with the client's legal team to implement a comprehensive prevention framework — removing 80 per cent of unlawful traders from online platforms, tightening counterfeit controls, and establishing long-term alliances with intelligence bodies, police, customs services, couriers and internet sales platforms. The work ensured that the outcomes of the investigation translated into lasting protection against future organised crime penetration.
A Reflection of Salterton's Standards
This award recognises the incredible professionalism of the team of specialists brought together to deliver this investigation. It reflects the approach that defines all investigations undertaken by Salterton: rigorous case management, sound legal governance, expert tactical delivery and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.
