When the Truth Matters Most, We Deliver.
Uncovering Truth. Delivering Confidence.
At Ruffin and Associates LLC, we don’t just gather information — we uncover the truth with precision, discretion, and purpose. Built on a foundation of integrity and real-world experience, our agency is dedicated to helping individuals, businesses, and legal professionals make informed decisions with confidence.

Our Mission
Our mission is to deliver accurate and confidential investigative services that help clients make informed decisions with confidence, guided by integrity, precision, and professionalism.

Our Vision
Our vision is to be a trusted leader in investigative services, recognized for excellence, discretion, and a strong commitment to delivering reliable results consistently.

Our Values
Our values are built on integrity, confidentiality, and accuracy. We commit to ethical practices, protecting client privacy, and delivering reliable results with professionalism.
Meet the Founder
26 Years of Federal Experience. Trusted Leadership.
Meet the Founder
26 Years of Federal Experience. Trusted Leadership.

Ex-FBI
100s of solved cases and high-profile background investigations, over 25 years

Ex-NASCAR Senior Director
Dozens of employment investigations and intelligence products produced
Meet the Founder
26 Years of Federal Experience. Trusted Leadership.
Ex-FBI
100s of solved cases and high-profile background investigations, over 25 years
Ex-NASCAR Senior Director
Dozens of employment investigations and intelligence products produced
Meet Our Associates
Steve Chopan
Retired FBI technical trained agent. Extensive knowledge in surveillance and detection equipment.
Bruce Harkleroad
Retired FBI Special Agent & CPA
I am a retired Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent with over 30 years of experience in law enforcement. As an FBI agent, I was stationed in Buffalo, NY from 1988 - 1998. In January 1999, I was transferred to the Knoxville Division – Chattanooga. I retired from the FBI in December 2017. Since retirement, I have worked as a fraud examiner reviewing Paycheck Protection Program loans. I am a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA). My extensive experience as an agent and my background in accounting makes me an invaluable asset in the field of private investigation.
During my time with the FBI, I successfully investigated various federal criminal matters including bank robberies and fraud, white collar crime, consumer fraud, insurance fraud, environmental crimes, and more. I also spent time working counterintelligence matters which involved identifying foreign threats toward the U.S. Government and U.S. businesses.
Additionally, I have extensive investigative training and pursued continuous professional development to hone my investigative and legal knowledge and abilities. For instance, I have training in interview and interrogation techniques, informant development, corporate fraud, and environmental crimes among others.
In addition to my professional experience and training, I have worked with local, state, and federal law enforcement plus an established working relationship with the Department of Defense agencies.
Meet Our Associates
Steve Chopan
Retired FBI technical trained agent. Extensive knowledge in surveillance and detection equipment.
Bruce Harkleroad
Bruce Harkleroad CPA
I am a retired FBI Special Agent with over 30 years of law enforcement experience. My background as an agent and my accounting expertise make me a strong asset in private investigation. I have received comprehensive investigative training and continue to pursue professional development to strengthen my investigative and legal skills. For example, I have training in interview and interrogation techniques, informant development, corporate fraud, and environmental crimes, among other areas.
Our Approach

Confidential Consultation
We understand your needs and case details while ensuring complete privacy.

Strategic Planning
A tailored investigation plan is created based on your specific situation.

Evidence Gathering
We collect accurate and reliable evidence using proven methods.

Clear Reporting
You receive clear, detailed reports with actionable insights.
Need Answers? We’re Here to Help

+1 (205) 957-3451

info@sruffinassociates.com
