NCJ Number
85761
Date Published
1982
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the development and use of informants in arson investigations.
Abstract
Because arson investigations suffer from a lack of direct physical evidence, eyewitnesses, time, manpower assistance, and cooperation from support agencies, the use of confidential informants is valuable. A confidential informant can be anyone with information of value to the arson investigation who will not willingly provide relevant information unless assured that his/her identity will be kept secret. It is important that the investigator be familiar with the laws and limitations on the use of confidential informants prior to the cultivation and use of an informant system. Categories of informant information include investigative leads, which merely point the investigation in the right direction, and information essential for probable cause, which is information that can be relied upon as ground for an arrest or search warrant. Although information from informants is hearsay and is therefore generally inadmissible as evidence, information from a confidential source can be accepted providing the informant and information can be proved reliable. Administrative support essential for the cultivation of informants includes (1) a contingency fund for fronting money to the informant or entertaining him/her, (2) an overtime budget that will permit meeting the informant at times convenient to him/her, (3) a system for disbursement of funds to the confidential informant, and (4) flexibility that will permit meeting informants in otherwise restricted areas (bars, etc.). Informants must be cultivated, because they will rarely come forward on their own. This involves developing a relationship of trust between the investigator and the informant. Eight footnotes and six references are listed.