API to find a person even if it has an archieved lead

How do I check using Pipedrive APIs if a client (email and phone number) exists in my pipedrive account? I tried the Persons API - searchPersons and provided the email id in it. This does not work in case this client previously existed and the lead corresponding to it is marked archived.

Is there an API which takes care of this and gets me the information of the person even if was marked archived earlier?

Hi Team, any update on this? I also noticed there is no documentation for archived leads. Please provide information on this. Thanks.