Additional Covert Techniques in Corruption Investigations (From Prosecution of Public Corruption Cases, P 135-143, 1988, U.S. Department of Justice -- See NCJ-110010)

• NCJ Number: 110020
• Author(s): W A Keefer
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: For microfiche, see NCJ-110010.

Annotation

A number of covert investigative techniques may serve as useful adjuncts to undercover operations and the use of informants in the investigation of public corruption.

Abstract

Telephone toll records can provide valuable corroborative evidence and may be obtained by grand jury subpoena. While the use of pen registers and trap and trace devices has been enhanced by Congress, their value is tempered by their relative scarcity, the limited value of information provided by them, and the need for considerable telephone company assistance. Mail covers may provide leads and can be useful in tracking the flow of money in fraud investigations. Electronic surveillance techniques useful in corruption investigations may include mobile tracking devices, closed-circuit television, consensual audio recordings, and wiretaps. Each of these techniques have benefits and limitations that should be considered before using them in a particular case. While court-authorized electronic surveillance is the quintessential covert investigative technique, it is subject to numerous procedural, legal, and policy prerequisites and can be very time-consuming.