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CRIMINAL DEFENSE INVESTIGATORS

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WHEN FREEDOM IS ON THE LINE, THE INVESTIGATION MATTERS

Pretrial Investigations is an investigative firm whose practice is limited to serious felony criminal matters, including homicide. We conduct disciplined review of law enforcement investigations, identify overlooked or underdeveloped leads, and develop alternative factual theories supported by the evidence.

Our work includes witness location and interviews, record and evidence analysis, and preparation of clear investigative reports for motions, impeachment, and trial preparation.

A FOCUSED, EXPERIENCED INVESTIGATIVE TEAM

Our investigators are experienced, professionally trained, and accustomed to complex felony litigation. Each investigator brings distinct skills that strengthen the investigative effort. We work closely with defense counsel, paralegals, and retained experts to verify material facts, document findings, and ensure investigative work remains aligned with the defense theory and procedural posture of the case.

COURT-APPOINTED AND PRIVATE MATTERS

We accept court-appointed matters in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Monterey Counties. We also accept privately retained matters in those counties, as well as Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Kern, and Imperial Counties.

Mitigation-focused investigation is available when appropriate, including records collection, life-history documentation, witness development, and preparation of materials relevant to bail and sentencing advocacy.

OWNER / QUALIFIED MANAGER

Jody Ahrens Private Investigator
JODY AHRENS
Jody Ahrens

Jody Ahrens is the Owner and Qualified Manager of Pretrial Investigations with three decades of combined law-enforcement service, internal investigations for a major airline, and criminal defense investigative experience. He works exclusively on serious and complex felonies—particularly homicide and other high-exposure cases—and is known for disciplined case analysis, aggressive witness development, and evidence-driven reporting that strengthens the defense. He is highly respected by his peers and by defense attorneys for rigorous discovery review, methodical fact development, and delivering clear, attorney-ready work product aimed at advancing favorable defense outcomes. He is also widely regarded as a seasoned resource on Hispanic gang dynamics and culture, including issues commonly implicated in gang allegations and enhancement litigation.

Through Pretrial Investigations, he and his team conduct major-felony investigations for retained and court-appointed counsel—locating and interviewing civilian and law-enforcement witnesses, securing statements, building timelines, and coordinating with experts and mitigation professionals when appropriate.

Jody is a graduate of the California Defense Investigators Training Academy and has completed Advanced Homicide Defense Training through California Attorneys for Criminal Justice. He holds a B.A. from the University of North Dakota, Magna Cum Laude. In addition to investigative practice, he serves as an Adjunct Instructor in Criminal Justice at a local college, teaching criminal procedure, evidence, and investigative methods. He also develops and presents MCLE instruction on alternative sentencing and mitigation strategy. His training includes Academy-level POST certification, and he maintains professional affiliations with the California Defense Investigators Association, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, California Public Defender’s Association, Los Angeles County Criminal Courts Bar Association, and the California Association of Licensed Investigators.

MEET THE TEAM

LLOYD M. McCULLOUGH
LLOYD M. McCULLOUGH

Defense Investigator

Since April 2019, Mr. McCullough has served on the Investigator Panel for the Los Angeles County Superior Court, having been appointed by the Honorable Terry A. Bork. He has been a Licensed Investigator in the State of California (License #188689) through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services since transitioning from his Law Enforcement career that same year.

In this role, his areas of investigation include:

  • Criminal Defense
  • Crimes against Persons and Property Crimes
  • Identity Theft and Vehicular Crimes
  • Crimes of Violence and Domestic Violence
  • Mitigation Investigation, including Historical Analysis and Consultation
  • Witness Locating and Case Management

Law Enforcement Career

Lloyd McCullough’s extensive career in law enforcement began on July 8, 1988, when he joined the Los Angeles County Marshal’s Office as a Deputy Marshal. He served in that capacity until January 1, 1994, serving as a Bailiff, conducting Civil Process, and providing Court Security for the Los Angeles County Municipal Court System.

Following his time as a Deputy Marshal, he served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department as a Deputy Sheriff from January 1994 until his retirement in April 2019. During his more than 25 years with the Department, he accumulated over 10,000 hours of investigative experience in patrol operations and investigations.

His career in patrol progressed from a single-man unit to a Traffic Unit, after which he was promoted first to a Field Training Officer for new recruits, and later to Senior Training Officer. In this capacity, he trained over 50 Deputy Sheriff Trainees on key aspects of police work, including Officer Safety, Tactics, Force, Law, Departmental Directives, and Investigative and Interview Skills.

Education, Training, and Certifications

Lloyd McCullough attended Rio Hondo Police Academy from June to November 1988. He earned his P.O.S.T. (California Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certification in December 1988 and his Advanced P.O.S.T. Certification in September 2006.

Throughout his career, he has completed a vast array of specialized training, including:

Investigative Techniques

  • Search Warrants
  • Wiretaps
  • Narcotic Street Development
  • Vehicle Theft
  • Social Media/Electronic Communication Investigations
  • Statement Analysis
  • Cell Phone Extraction
  • Financial Crime Investigation

Tactical and Field Skills

  • Firearms (Handguns, Rifles, Shotguns)
  • Less than Lethal Weapons
  • Combat Fighting and Takedown Procedures
  • Active Shooter Response
  • Pursuit Driving
  • Crowd Control and Riot Training

Specialized Law Enforcement

  • Advanced Roadside Impaired Driver Enforcement (ARIDE)
  • Breath Alcohol Testing
  • Drug and Alcohol Recognition

Professional Development

  • Respect-Based Leadership
  • Tactical Communications
  • Sexual Harassment/Racial Profiling for Law Enforcement Managers
  • Constitutional Policing
  • Community Policing and Partnership
  • Tools for Tolerance

Lloyd McCullough is also a 2024 graduate of the California Defense Investigators Association (CDIA) Academy and is Certified in Android and iPhone cell phone data extraction.

Awards and Affiliations

Lloyd McCullough’s exemplary service has earned him numerous accolades, including:

  • City of West Hollywood Deputy of the Year (2013)
  • Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department “Legendary Lawman” Award (2017)
  • Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Award for Meritorious Conduct (2014)
  • Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Recognition Award: Five consecutive years (2012–2016)
  • City of West Hollywood Recognition Award for achieving 60 DUI arrests (2010)

Associations & Affiliations

Lloyd is an active member of several professional organizations, including:

  • Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
  • California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI)
  • California Public Defenders Association (CPDA)
  • California Defense Investigators Association (CDIA)
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ)
  • Los Angeles County Superior Court Panel of Licensed Private Investigators
  • National Council of Investigation & Security Services (NCISS)
  • Professional Investigators of California (PICA)
  • Other State and National Investigative and Legal Associations
MICHAEL A. DiMATTEO
MICHAEL A. DiMATTEO

Began law enforcement career as a Military Policeman in the United States Marine Corps Serving with the 3rd Marine Air Wing in Santa Ana and Tustin California.

In 1980, began civilian law enforcement career, working as a patrol officer with the Cities of Banning and Bell Gardens Police Departments, in California.

In 1984, began career with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department in California, and retired in 2004

Began investigating Crimes Against Children in 1988, conducting over one thousand investigations relating to the physical and sexual abuse of children. 

Began investigating Internet related crimes in 1994, conducting hundreds of investigations relating to the sexual exploitation of children via the Internet. Received specialized training relating to the investigation of computer crimes and computer forensics, and conducted complicated undercover operations where suspects paid money to engage in sex acts with children.

Assisted law enforcement agencies in the United States, England, Canada, and Africa. Cases conducted in these jurisdictions have resulted in the enacting of new laws in the United Kingdom and the State of Texas.

Has testified as an expert in federal, state, and local court jurisdictions throughout the United States, and has provided sworn testimony via deposition for authorities in the United Kingdom.

Assisted federal law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, US Customs Service, US Secret Service, Office of the Inspector General, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Air Force OSI, and the US Army Criminal Investigative Division.

Has conducted over 150 computer forensic investigations relating to various crimes, including homicide, robbery, fraud, counterfeiting, embezzlement, wrongful termination, identity theft, the theft of proprietary information, family law, and crimes relating to the physical and sexual molestation of children.

Has trained law enforcement personnel in the investigation of computer crimes and the physical and sexual abuse of children, and has lectured at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA.

Has been a California Licensed Private Investigator since 2008, and a member of the Los Angeles County Superior Court Pvt. investigators panel since 2013. Authorized to work with Pro Per defendants and in the California State Prison system.

PAUL HUEBL
PAUL HUEBL

Paul’s career began in frontline public service—first in the military, where he served as a medic, learning calm under pressure, disciplined decision-making, and responsibility for life-and-death outcomes. He later brought that same composure to law enforcement with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and the Chicago Police Department, working patrol units, graveyard shifts, and high-risk calls where consequences followed you long after the report was written.

During his time with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Paul handled custodial transports and court movements, including transporting then-Teamsters president Jimmy Hoffa from the Cook County Jail to the federal building for a court appearance. Paul recalls that on those federal court dates, Hoffa would arrange lunch for the U.S. Marshals—an uncommon gesture that reflected Hoffa’s professionalism and steady demeanor in a controlled, high-security setting.

Paul later took the uncommon step of leaving the security of government service—initially on a leave of absence—to establish a private investigation practice in Arizona. He moved directly into criminal defense work, taking on urgent matters with limited margins for error and an immediate demand for disciplined fact-gathering, witness development, and courtroom-ready reporting.

His investigative work soon expanded into broadcast journalism, where he served as a freelance investigative television news producer and worked alongside major networks in the United States and abroad. He contributed to coverage of some of the most consequential criminal and national-security events of the era, including the O.J. Simpson murder trial, the Oklahoma City bombing, the Unabomber investigation, and the September 11 attacks—assignments requiring accuracy, speed, discretion, and the ability to operate professionally in highly controlled, high-stakes environments.

Paul has also supported high-profile criminal defense matters involving public figures, where reputational risk and media scrutiny amplify the consequences of every decision. His work has included assignments connected to the Robert Blake criminal and civil proceedings and both Phil Spector trials, where meticulous evidence review and reliable investigative process were essential.

Licensed in California, Paul has built a practice concentrated on serious felony matters, including use-of-force cases. He is known for thorough preparation, clear documentation, and a calm, methodical approach—particularly when facts are contested and the outcome turns on credibility, forensics, and careful reconstruction of events. Colleagues describe him as the consummate professional: prepared, discreet, and dependable in the most demanding situations.

One of his most significant investigations involved a mother wrongfully accused and convicted of killing her child and sentenced to death. Working on behalf of the news media, Paul conducted a comprehensive reinvestigation that exposed critical failures in the original case. The conviction was ultimately overturned, and she was fully exonerated—an outcome that underscored the value of disciplined investigative work when the system gets it wrong.

His work has taken him beyond the United States, including Geneva, Switzerland, where he assisted in the production of a documentary for the Human Rights Film Festival. He has handled serious matters across Illinois, Arizona, New Jersey, California, Germany, and the United Kingdom—adapting to different legal systems while maintaining the same standard: careful fact development, professional integrity, and results grounded in evidence.

Paul’s approach is straightforward: follow the facts, document the truth, and deliver work that holds up—on the record, under scrutiny, and when it matters most

JASON COREY
JASON COREY
With three decades of distinguished service in law enforcement, including over 17 years dedicated to complex investigations, Jason brings unparalleled insight, skill, and professionalism to criminal defense work.
 
A retired Master Investigator from the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, Jason's experience spans violent crimes, sexual assault and child abuse (SACA), criminal intelligence, and over 150 homicide investigations—including officer-involved shootings.
 
Jason’s investigative background includes eight years with the Central Homicide Unit, where he led and supported major casework, and later assignments in covert surveillance, cold case homicide, and forensic investigative genetic genealogy. His deep understanding of police procedures, evidence collection, and prosecutorial strategy now empowers him to uncover investigative gaps, ensure due process, and identify exculpatory evidence in support of the defense.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail, fair and impartial approach, and advanced investigative techniques, Jason offers defense teams the advantage of an insider’s perspective—applied with the highest standards of ethics, objectivity, and commitment to justice.
ERIC HYDE
ERIC HYDE

Eric Hyde is a seasoned investigative professional with a demonstrated record of detailed case analysis, strategy development, and collaboration with key stakeholders to produce complete and thorough investigations using both traditional and technical methodologies. 

With over two decades of service in Southern California law enforcement, Hyde brings firsthand operational experience from assignments as a patrol officer, field training officer, gang detective, and crisis negotiator, followed by promotion to sergeant in 2013.

In supervisory roles, he has overseen detective functions, patrol operations, crisis negotiations, special enforcement activities, and administrative investigations, including officer-involved shooting inquiries—experience that translates directly to disciplined fact-development, credibility assessment, and case-driven investigative work for the defense. 

In a criminal defense capacity, Hyde is positioned to support counsel through structured case analysis, investigative planning, and comprehensive follow-through designed to identify inconsistencies, locate and interview witnesses, and develop defensible timelines and alternative theories consistent with the evidence.

WILLIAM CONDE
WILLIAM CONDE

William is a licensed private investigator, Alternative Sentencing Specialist, and Spanish Interpreter who provides professional investigative and client-support services with a focus on accuracy, accountability, and results. His work includes conducting thorough investigations; gathering, verifying, and analyzing information; interviewing individuals; and preparing clear, detailed reports suitable for case review and litigation support.

As an Alternative Sentencing Specialist, he is recognized for exceptional liaison work with defense attorneys, the Sheriff’s Department, and Probation, coordinating compliance requirements, documentation, and communications to keep clients on track and to promote the best possible outcome throughout the house arrest process. He also provides accurate Spanish interpretation to ensure clear, effective communication with Spanish-speaking clients and families, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring informed participation at every stage.

He is known for discretion, integrity, and precision, and he approaches each assignment with a disciplined, client-centered methodology designed to protect the record and support successful program completion.

Michaela Sanchez
MICHAELA SANCHEZ
MICHAELA SANCHEZ

Michaela is an Operations Administrator and Investigative Specialist who provides high-level administrative leadership and professional investigative support services with a focus on accuracy, organization, and follow-through. In her investigative capacity, she conducts thorough investigations; gathers, verifies, and analyzes information; interviews individuals; and prepares clear, detailed reports suitable for attorney review and case support.

Michaela also serves as a Spanish Interpreter, providing accurate, reliable interpretation to ensure clear and effective communication with Spanish-speaking clients and stakeholders. Known for discretion, integrity, and precision, she manages sensitive matters with professionalism and consistency while keeping cases, documentation, and communications moving efficiently.

OMAR VALENCIA
OMAR VALENCIA

Omar Valencia is a licensed private investigator and Director of Alternative Sentencing for Pretrial Investigations, overseeing the firm’s house arrest and alternative sentencing services with a strict focus on compliance, documentation, and outcome-driven client support. He works directly with defense counsel to streamline enrollment, address agency requirements, and ensure clients remain informed and on track throughout the program.

As the lead for alternative sentencing, Omar serves as the primary liaison with defense attorneys, the Sheriff’s Department, and Probation, coordinating communications, scheduling, and required paperwork to minimize delays and reduce preventable violations. He is also a Spanish speaker, ensuring clear, effective communication with Spanish-speaking clients and families.

For immediate coordination or program questions, attorneys may call or text Omar Valencia directly at (858) 349-3081.

Alternative Sentencing Services

A Second Chance, A Smarter Solution

Avoid jail time while staying accountable. VIP Alternative Sentencing provides a structured, monitored, and court-approved solution that keeps you connected to your family, job, and responsibilities—all with exceptional service and guaranteed results.

✔ VIP Alternative Sentencing Will Act as Your Liaison – We handle all communication with the court, probation, and sheriff, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
✔ Flexible Sentencing Options – House arrest, work release, and community service coordination.
✔ Seamless Court & Agency Coordination – Our expert team walks you through every step to ensure compliance.
✔ 100% Money-Back Guarantee – If you are not approved, we refund your entire service fee.
✔ 24/7 Support & Compliance Assistance – Helping you meet all requirements with ease.
✔ Cost-Effective & Efficient – A smarter alternative to traditional incarceration.

🔹 Stay Home. Stay Productive. Stay Compliant. 🔹

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