TOM POWERS, FOUNDER

Tom Powers is a senior investigator with over fifteen years of experience conducting complex, independent investigations across higher education, civil rights, and federal systems. He has completed more than 800 investigations, including Title IX and civil rights matters at 12+ universities, large-scale institutional accountability inquiries, and federal cases involving constitutional violations.

As Chief Investigator at Astor Investigations, Tom conducts neutral, trauma-informed investigations for institutions navigating sensitive allegations involving sexual misconduct, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. His work requires interviewing diverse constituencies—students, faculty, staff, administrators, and external witnesses—while maintaining strict impartiality and confidentiality. Tom's investigative reports are recognized for their thoroughness, evidentiary rigor, and ability to withstand legal and administrative scrutiny.

Tom holds a Master's degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY), ATIXA Level One and Two certifications, and the Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) credential. He is trained in trauma-informed interviewing and digital forensics.

Notable Investigations:

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Led a civil rights investigation that exposed systemic misconduct within the Chicago Police Department, including evidence suppression and potential witness intimidation. The investigation was featured in the Chicago Tribune (February 2018) and contributed to departmental accountability reforms.

Conducted Title IX investigations across 12+ Colorado universities, navigating distinct institutional policies and producing comprehensive findings for administrative adjudication.

Managed complex federal investigations involving 80,000+ documents and 130+ GB of digital evidence, identifying patterns of misconduct through rigorous analysis.

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Tom's career has been defined by navigating sensitive, high-stakes investigations where independence and impartiality are paramount.