On a humid evening in March 2022, the grand halls of Mar-a-Lago were alive with energy. Attendees mingled throughout the venue, engaged in lively conversations, while a quiet force worked behind the scenes to ensure their safety. Patrick Collis, leading a security team, was responsible for protecting TV personality David Harris Jr. and country music star Coffey Anderson during an event hosted by (President) Donald Trump.
The following day, Harris Jr. took to social media to express his gratitude to Collis for his professionalism. For Collis, this was just another day on the job. It was one of many days that had shaped his career in security and investigations.
For him, becoming a trusted figure in executive protection and private investigations didn’t start in the halls of political power. It began with a simple neighborhood watch in Norfolk, Virginia, fueled by a commitment to serve and protect.
How it all began
To much surprise, Collis never intended to create a nationally recognized security firm. His journey began in 2018 when he co-founded Spartan Investigations alongside fellow veteran Preston Hocker.
It initially started as a neighborhood watch project. A small group of veterans banded together to combat theft in their community. Spartan quickly grew into something much more significant. Collis shifted his focus to bounty hunting and private investigations, taking on cases that demanded persistence, strategic thinking, and a thorough understanding of risk. These were certain exponents Collis specialized in.
His work soon expanded into high-profile political security operations, and his commitment to diligence and integrity earned him two personal letters of recognition from President Trump. Even as his responsibilities in security increased, Collis and Hocker stayed true to their foundational values.
As ordained pastors, they infused a faith-based perspective into Spartan Investigations, prioritizing morality, integrity, and community service in all their endeavors.
Building Spartan
As Spartan Investigations grew, Collis and Hocker recruited key personnel who significantly influenced the company’s direction. One of their most notable hires was retired Washington D.C. Police Officer Haydee Huitz, who took on the role of CEO.
Under her guidance, Spartan not only enhanced its investigative methods but also incorporated advanced technology and data analysis into its operations.
Spartan evolved beyond traditional security; it became a firm that prioritized risk assessment, crisis management, and preventative strategies. Their clientele expanded to include law firms, corporate entities, and political figures, all attracted by Spartan’s reputation for professionalism and discretion.
Collis made sure that Spartan’s core values—honesty, sincerity, and integrity—were demonstrated into every facet of its firm’s work. His leadership style combined hands-on involvement with a strong trust in his team.
This ability to lead by example was particularly highlighted in May 2022 when his mother faced emergency brain surgery. Although he had the chance to return home to support her, Collis chose to stay on duty, believing his team and clients relied on him. His dedication did not go unnoticed; former President Trump sent a personal letter to his mother, expressing gratitude for raising a son so committed to service.
It wouldn’t be fair to say that Spartan’s success was solely attributed to Collis. It was a result of teamwork. Many team members had backgrounds in law enforcement and military special forces, enabling Spartan to offer specialized services that met the unique needs of its clients.
The firm’s expertise went beyond just security details. It also included investigative work that supported legal professionals. Spartan established strong partnerships with law firms such as Albiston Brannon & Gilbert, The Wooten Law Group, and The Hanger Law Firm. Additionally, the company created Continuing Legal Education (CLE) courses, which were approved by the Virginia State Bar, to assist family law attorneys in enhancing their investigative skills.
Being an industry-runner, Collis formed strategic partnerships. His firm collaboration with Critical Dynamics improved law enforcement training, while working with The Behavioral Panel led to the development of a body language course designed to enhance the skills of Spartan’s investigators and security personnel.
Beyond providing security for high-profile clients—including Steve Bannon, General Michael T. Flynn, and members of the Trump family—Spartan also managed significant protection operations at events such as Clay Clarke’s Reawaken America Tour and broadcasts from Real America’s Voice.
More than a firm
Spartan’s professional reputation flourished throughout the years. Yet Collis remained dedicated to serving the community. One of the firm’s most significant contributions occurred in September 2021, when Hurricane Ida wreaked havoc on Gulf Coast communities.
Spartan protection officer Rhys M. Brink spearheaded a team that assisted FEMA with disaster relief, providing security for a disaster camp while also distributing food, water, and clothing to affected residents.
Collis also took on roles that went beyond conventional security duties. In February 2024, he received a personal invitation from Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s campaign to attend a fundraising event and lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
Such events not only strengthened Spartan’s ties within the political and business spheres but also highlights Collis’s rising stature as a trusted security professional.
Exciting things ahead
Collis stays dedicated to its mission: delivering top-notch security services while adhering to the highest ethical standards. With plans to grow its Texas division, led by former Border Patrol agent Gary Brugman, he is is set to enhance his influence in the fields of executive protection and investigations. In addition to security operations, there are discussions about bringing Spartan’s story to television.
Actor and executive protection officer Michael Copon, recognized for his roles in One Tree Hill and Power Rangers: Time Force, is working on a TV show focused on Spartan Investigations. If it comes to fruition, the series could offer a glimpse into the challenges and commitment involved in private investigations and security work.
For Collis, the future is not solely about business expansion. He is much keen on upholding the values that contributed to his firm’s success from the beginning. Whether it’s safeguarding high-profile clients, aiding in legal investigations, or supporting communities in need, Spartan Investigations embodies Collis’s resolute character to service.
And for those who know him, that dedication is what truly characterizes his success.
