™
U.S. OPERATIONS
CALIFORNIA
Former Special Agent
John Samore III
John Samore III is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in the State of California, and Certified Fraud Examiner. Mr. Samore has both a B.S. in Accounting and MBA from the University of Southern California. Mr. Samore also held various leadership positions with the California Society of CPAs, including President of the Los Angeles Chapter.
Mr. Samore is a former Special Agent with both the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation division, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General. During his time as a Special Agent, John conducted criminal investigations involving tax fraud, financial crimes and investments fraud including Ponzi schemes, Medicare fraud, money laundering, political corruption, and identity theft. John served on the multi-agency Eurasian Organized Crime Task Force consisting of personnel from the FBI, Secret Service, IRS-CI, HSI (Formerly ICE), HHS-OIG, Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department and the Glendale, Los Angeles, and Burbank police departments.
Mr. Samore also has a vast accounting and consulting background and has spent time within the Forensic and Litigation practice of a “Big 4” firm and various industry positions involving financial reporting, compliance, policies and procedures, and other accounting/ finance roles.
FLORIDA
Retired Special Agent
Kevin Griffin
Kevin brings a wealth of expertise garnered from a distinguished 20-year career as an FBI agent, specializing in dismantling criminal enterprises ranging from international drug trafficking to terrorism and public corruption. Notably, he spearheaded a landmark investigation into public corruption in Broward County, Florida, resulting in the conviction of numerous elected officials and earning acclaim as the largest corruption scandal in the county's history.
For his exemplary efforts, Kevin was honored with the FBI Meritorious Achievement Medal, recognizing his pivotal role during a kidnapping attempt orchestrated by a Colombian Drug Trafficking Organization. Prior to his illustrious tenure with the FBI, Kevin served as an Air Force officer, achieving the rank of Captain after graduating from the United States Air Force Academy.
Now, Kevin has brought his formidable expertise to Potter & Co., enhancing the firm's capabilities with his seasoned investigative skills and extensive law enforcement background. In addition to his licensed status as a Private Investigator Qualified Manager in California, Kevin's arrival signifies a significant asset to Potter & Co.'s mission of upholding justice and security.
TEXAS
Retired Detective
Marcus Santiago
Mr. Santiago comes to Potter & Co with a host of accomplishments in his more than 20 years of experience in law enforcement. A retired NYPD Detective, Mr Santiago finished his career in one of the highest regarded units in the New York City Police Department: Intelligence Bureau.
Mr. Santiago is recognized for professionalism, commitment to excellence, demonstrated ability to communicate and work with executive management. Lead and direct investigations, develop, implement security operations, manage security awareness and risk/vulnerability assessments. Provided Dignitary Protection for 4 years to President/Vice President of the US, First Lady and family, US Secretary of State, Heads of State Prime Ministers and foreign minister.
NEW YORK
Retired Detective 1st Grade
Robert C Caralyus
Det. Caralyus began his law enforcement career with the New York City Police Department in 1985. Assigned to the 43rd Precinct in the Bronx. Det. Caralyus carried out his duty as a foot patrol officer during the end of the most violent years in the Bronx. He took his street knowledge and investigative ethic to the Village of Elmsford in Westchester County where he has been a detective for the past twenty years.
Det. Caralyus imparts both a superior investigative element as well as sound judgement to all strategic operations. Mr. Caralyus is Certified in Intellectual Property investigations by Interpol. Certified Under Cover and a member of JTTF New York Westchester. Det. Caralyus has served as President of the PBA, Affliated Law Enforcement and the 100 Club of Westchester County and presently sits a board member of the Detectives Association.
CALIFORNIA
Detective D3
Scott Padin
Mr. Padin joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1995 and was assigned to patrol functions right out of the academy patrolling the greater south central Los Angeles area. In 1997 Mr. Padin was assigned to Narcotics Division Section as an undercover field officer putting him in direct contact with drug dealers and gang members who were engaged in distributing and transportation of narcotics. His assignments allowed him to conduct undercover controlled narcotic buys, surveillance of suspects and ultimately to author and serve narcotics search and arrest warrants.
On September 11, 2001 after the World Trade Center attacks Mr. Padin was transferred to Anti Terrorist Division Surveillance Section. His duties were to work with the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security gathering intelligence, utilizing surveillances techniques on potential terrorist suspects and their associates. In January of 2007 Mr. Padin was promoted to Detective and assigned to robbery and burglary investigation division. His job not only allowed him to investigate said crimes but also prepare the cases for the District Attorneys Office for filing considerations.
In May of 2009 Mr. Padin was assigned to the Eurasian Organized Crime Task as a cross-designated federal task force officer working with the FBI, Secret Service and Internal Revenue Service. He received (TS/SCI) top-secret security clearance from the FBI which allowed him to work closely with FBI counter parts in dealing with classified information. His duties were to gather intelligence on organized crime groups’ criminal street gangs and prison gangs. During his tenure with the task force as an Investigator his duties also included providing surveillance training to all the members assigned to the task force and loanes.
On February 2011 Mr. Padin returned to LAPD's Major Crimes Division Organized Crime Section assigned to investigations of organized crime groups. Where he currently continues to provide surveillance training to LAPD, FBI, and other local police departments.
CALIFORNIA
Retired SWAT Officer
Jame Hart II
James Hart is a veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) with over 33 years of experience as a Police Officer and 23 years as a SWAT Operator. In 1993, James developed and created the Defensive Tactics Unit in response to numerous altercations occurring with combative suspects, and injuries sustained by SWAT Operators involved in Use of Force incidents. As a SWAT Instructor, he has conducted many training courses for officers in LAPD and with other local, state, and federal law enforcement officers. James has also conducted advanced courses for the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) where he trained numerous tactical officers throughout the United States and Puerto Rico in dealing with Aggressive/Combative Suspects, Use of Force situations, Hand to Hand Combat, Weapon Retention, Crisis Negotiation Training (CNT), Basic SWAT Training, and Sniper Training. James has also worked in Crime Suppression, Gang Suppression, and Narcotic Enforcement with several Federal Task Force Units.
While serving as an Operator in SWAT (D- Platoon), James participated in countless High-Risk Warrant Services that were above and beyond the capabilities of a normal patrol. He was a Breacher as well as a CNT Member where he was able to successfully talk barricaded suspects and suicidal victims into a peaceful resolution. As a qualified trainer, he has also worked with the Suicide Hot Line unit and has trained and mentored new officers joining SWAT. Additionally, James has worked many specialized protective assignments--- including the Chief of Police Security Detail, visiting Heads of State, Dignitaries, and assisting the United States Secret Service with the Presidential (POTUS) Detail.
James is a graduate of the FBI's Firearms Instructor course and the United States Marine Corps, Scout Sniper course. He has also taught at Fullerton College Police Academy, where he trained new recruits in defensive tactics, high profile/high-risk traffic stops, straight baton and PR-24 baton, hand-to-hand combat, and team takedowns. He holds a 5th Degree Black Belt in Shudokan Ryu Taiho Jutsu and a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo. James was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame in 2004, and with the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2012, he was honored as 'Instructor of the Year" by the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
James holds a Bachelor of Science degree from California State Polytechnic University of Pomona and an Associates Arts degree from Pierce College, Woodland Hills California.
TEXAS
Retired Texas Ranger
Clair Barnes
Clair Barnes epitomizes the epitome of Texas law enforcement, serving with distinction as a Texas Ranger renowned for her unwavering commitment to justice and integrity. With a career spanning over two decades, she has established herself as a formidable force in combating crime across the Lone Star State.
Hailing from a long line of law enforcement officers, Clair's dedication to serving her community was instilled at an early age. After graduating from the prestigious Texas Ranger Academy, she quickly rose through the ranks, earning a reputation for her exceptional investigative skills, sharp intuition, and unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.
Throughout her illustrious career, Clair has tackled a myriad of high-profile cases, from complex homicide investigations to large-scale organized crime operations. Her tenacity and resourcefulness have consistently led to successful outcomes, earning her the respect and admiration of both colleagues and adversaries alike.
Beyond her duties as a Texas Ranger, Clair is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of law enforcement professionals, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience to inspire others to uphold the principles of honor, duty, and justice.
With her steadfast dedication and unyielding determination, Clair Barnes continues to embody the finest traditions of the Texas Rangers, ensuring that the spirit of justice burns brightly across the vast expanse of the Lone Star State.
ARIZONA
Retired SAC
Kirk Fowler
Former Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the DEA, Fowler Sensei brings a wealth of leadership and investigative knowledge to Potter & Co., augmenting the firm's capabilities with his seasoned expertise. As one of the recognized Chief Instructors of Ki Society USA, a position formally acknowledged and bestowed by Tohei Sensei, Fowler Sensei holds a prestigious role within the martial arts community.
With a Roku Dan (6th degree black belt) and Chuden in Ki Development, Fowler Sensei's mastery of Aikido is unparalleled. Beyond his martial arts accomplishments, he boasts extensive experience as a DEA agent, where he specialized in teaching defensive tactics to various US Policing and Military organizations.
Currently based in Scottsdale, Fowler Sensei serves as a dedicated instructor at the Arizona Aikido Ki Society Dojo, imparting his knowledge and expertise to eager students. Despite his demanding schedule, he remains committed to sharing his passion for Aikido and fostering a community of growth and camaraderie.
FLORIDA
Retired SWAT
Luis "Louie" Molina
Luis "Louie" Molina brings a wealth of law enforcement experience to his role as a retired SWAT officer with the Chicago Police Department. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to protecting the community and upholding justice.
After retiring from active duty, Louie transitioned into a crucial role within the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), a vital component of the Multi-Disciplinary Task Force operating out of the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC). This partnership, initiated in August of 2001, stands as a testament to Louie's ongoing commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society.
As a member of the SIU, Louie focuses on investigating allegations of sexual assault and abuse involving children under the age of 13, as well as family-related cases where the victim is under 18. His expertise extends to probing instances of child pornography distribution over the internet and indecent solicitation of children.
Utilizing his specialized training and experience, Louie collaborates closely with other detectives within the Illinois Crimes Against Children task force. Together, they conduct thorough investigations and provide support to victims and their families during these challenging times.
In addition to his investigative duties, Louie frequently shares his knowledge and insights with schools and community groups, delivering presentations aimed at raising awareness and preventing child exploitation. His dedication to educating the public underscores his commitment to making a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of children throughout the Chicago area.
Through his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, Luis "Louie" Molina continues to be a beacon of hope and justice for the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are protected.