Founder

David Hammel is a seasoned investigator with a distinguished career that began with the Maryland State Police, where he retired from the Criminal Investigative Command. During his service, he investigated numerous complex criminal cases and developed expertise in every aspect of conducting both criminal and administrative investigations.

Since retiring from the State Police, David has continued to share his knowledge as a college professor, teaching criminal investigation and homeland security–related courses. He has also served as a contract investigator supporting a variety of federal contracts, bringing his depth of experience to sensitive and high-profile matters.

An accomplished expert witness, David has testified in multiple courts and is frequently sought after to lecture at professional conferences and training programs. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing the field of investigations and mentoring the next generation of professionals.

Managing Investigator

Kate Sickles is a licensed Private Detective and Managing Investigator with Hammel & Associates, bringing over three years of hands-on experience in surveillance and private investigations. She specializes in gathering actionable intelligence for litigation support, risk assessments, and complex casework.

Kate holds a Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigations from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) and is certified in CompTIA Network+ and Security+, along with extensive additional professional training. Her career spans both investigations and IT security, with expertise in eDiscovery, open-source intelligence (OSINT), and digital forensics. In her current role, she leads investigations, provides training in OSINT techniques, and leverages the newest technologies to strengthen case outcomes.

Known for her compassion when working with clients, Kate is passionate about uncovering the truth, mentoring new investigators, and delivering accurate, reliable results with professionalism and integrity.

Hammel & Associates works with a trusted network of licensed investigators and subject-matter experts who are brought in as needed to meet the unique demands of each case.

By tailoring the team to the specific needs of each investigation, we ensure that every case receives the right expertise, resources, and attention to detail. Our associates share the same commitment to professionalism, accuracy, and integrity that defines Hammel & Associates.