Former investigator and decorated Army Veteran, Jim Rathmann, took on the role as lead investigator and talent for Investigation Discovery's, Joe Exotic: Tigers, Lies & Cover-up. Jim lead the investigation surrounding the disappearance of Don Lewis, a wealthy real-estate entrepreneur who abruptly vanished out of Tampa, Florida, in 1997. On a mission to discover the truth behind Don's sudden disappearance, Jim challenges existing claims and reveals new theories and evidence, supported by criminal and legal experts, while reliving Don Lewis's final days through the accounts of those closest to him. In addition, Jim spent several months looking into the trial and conviction of Joseph Maldonado-Passage. Joe reached out to Jim in the fall of 2020 asking for his assistance in finding new leads and evidence that can help his legal team with the appeals process.  

Jim Rathmann was born on March 4, 1979 in Orlando, Florida. Shortly thereafter, his family moved to Boca Raton, Florida, where remained through high school. From a young age, Jim's first passion was playing football, where he played for Boca Raton High School and eventually went on to play collegiately for Louisiana State University (LSU). Jim played on the Louisiana State University (LSU) 2003 BCS National Championship Team under Head Coach, Nick Saban.

He began his law enforcement career with the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office, a suburb of Baton Rouge, LA where he worked as a detective. Jim left the Sheriff's Office to fulfill a commitment and promise to the U.S. Army as an Infantry Officer. Jim lead troops in combat operations in Afghanistan and was awarded a Bronze Star in combat.

Jim left the Army as a Captain and was hired into the United States Secret Service, fulfilling a lifelong dream of his. During his tenure with the Secret Service, Jim was assigned to the protection details of: President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Republican Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney, former US Presidents, and numerous Presidents and Prime Ministers from around the globe.

Jim is currently an Investigative Consultant who's passion and life work is to examine, investigate and provide closure for those individuals, families, communities or businesses impacted by unsolved traumatic events. In doing so, making a real difference in the lives of people every day.