By: Nic Abelian
Zelaya & Associates, a respected investigative firm based in Central Florida, is shaping the field of private investigation with its specialized focus on cold case and post-conviction investigations. Led by Eric Zelaya, the firm’s Owner and Chief Investigator, Zelaya & Associates is known for its commitment to forensic investigation, crime scene reconstruction, and providing expert witness testimony. With over a decade of experience, Zelaya has cultivated a reputation for his dedication to uncovering the truth, making his firm a valuable resource in some of the region’s complex cases.
Eric Zelaya’s journey into private investigation was built on a solid foundation in law enforcement. Before establishing Zelaya & Associates, he served as a State Corrections Officer for the Florida Department of Corrections (FDOC). During his tenure, he was part of the C-Shift Gang Investigations Unit, where he dealt with cases involving gang activities, assaults, homicides, and contraband trafficking. This experience gave Zelaya a deep understanding of criminal behavior, investigative techniques, and the complexities of the justice system.
Since transitioning to the role of a private investigator in 2011, Zelaya has focused on applying his extensive law enforcement experience to the private sector. He has logged over 10,000 hours investigating homicides, violent crimes, and cold cases, providing critical insights and support to defense attorneys and law enforcement agencies alike. As a Board Certified Criminal Defense Investigator and a Board Certified Forensic Death Investigator, Zelaya is among the select investigators in Central Florida equipped to handle death penalty cases during the trial phase. His collaboration with some of Florida’s experienced attorneys underscores his significant role in the criminal defense community.
A notable aspect of Zelaya & Associates is its focus on cold case investigations. Cold cases, often lacking recent leads or evidence, require a meticulous and innovative approach. Zelaya & Associates addresses these challenges by using modern forensic techniques and advanced investigative tools to revisit and rejuvenate these cases. This process may involve re-evaluating old evidence, conducting new witness interviews, and utilizing the latest forensic technology to uncover information that might have been overlooked in earlier investigations.
Zelaya’s involvement with the Cold Case Foundation further highlights his commitment to addressing unresolved cases. The Cold Case Foundation provides critical support to law enforcement agencies by offering specialized expertise and resources for cold case homicides, missing persons, and sexual assault cases that exhibit serial characteristics. Through his collaboration with the foundation, Zelaya contributes his knowledge to a broader mission, assisting in the resolution of long-standing cases and helping bring closure to victims’ families.
In addition to cold case investigations, Zelaya & Associates is actively engaged in post-conviction investigations, especially in cases of potential wrongful conviction. These cases require a thorough review of evidence and the procedural history to identify any errors or oversights that may have occurred during the original investigation or trial. Zelaya & Associates is committed to uncovering new evidence or highlighting procedural issues that could impact a case’s outcome. By offering expert witness testimony and employing advanced forensic analysis, the firm plays a crucial role in supporting individuals who may have been wrongfully convicted.
What sets Zelaya & Associates apart is its comprehensive approach to investigative services. The firm offers in-house crime scene reconstruction, allowing it to recreate and analyze crime scenes in detail. This service provides a clearer understanding of how events may have unfolded, which can be crucial in both criminal and civil cases. Coupled with their capacity to deliver expert witness testimony, Zelaya & Associates provides a complete package for clients seeking thorough investigative services. This integrated approach ensures that cases are handled with consistency and accuracy, giving clients confidence in the investigation process.
Eric Zelaya’s qualifications further bolster the firm’s expertise. With undergraduate certificates in Criminal Psychology and Criminology, Zelaya possesses a deep understanding of the psychological aspects of criminal behavior. His technical training in Medico-legal Death Investigations, along with specialized certifications in Gang and Narcotics Investigations from the Multi-Jurisdictional Counter Drug Task Force, equips him with a wide-ranging skill set essential for addressing complex investigative scenarios.
As the field of private investigation continues to evolve, Zelaya & Associates remains committed to maintaining high standards of innovation and excellence. The firm’s dedication to ongoing education and training ensures that its team is always prepared to utilize the latest techniques and tools in their investigations. This proactive approach, combined with a commitment to impartial and thorough investigation, positions Zelaya & Associates as a respected player in the private investigation field.
For more information about the specialized services offered by Zelaya & Associates, Private Investigators, please visit their website at zelayapi.com or connect with them on TikTok and Facebook.
Contact Information:
Eric Zelaya
Owner and Chief Investigator
Zelaya & Associates, Private Investigators
Phone: +1 407-634-2111
Email: eric@zelayapi.com
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The services and expertise described are specific to Zelaya & Associates, Private Investigators, and may not apply to every situation. Individuals seeking legal or investigative advice should consult with a qualified legal professional or licensed investigator to discuss their specific needs. The author and publisher are not liable for any actions taken based on the content of this article.
Published by: Holy Minoza
