NCJ Number
116051
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 58 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1989) Pages: 3-12
Date Published
1989
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Law enforcement management should use undercover operations only under certain circumstances and must formulate and carry out organizational guidelines and procedures to choose, train, and monitor the activities of undercover operatives properly.
Abstract
Undercover operations are expensive and force operatives to make many personal and professional sacrifices and to face unique and challenging stressors. Thus, undercover operations are appropriate only if the magnitude of the offense clearly justifies a major commitment of resources and all other approaches have either failed or proven impractical. Management must choose an operational team that can work together closely for the duration of the project. Members' commitment, experience, resourcefulness, and specialized skills should be carefully considered. Training should include classroom instruction, undercover case experiences and briefings, and training related to the particular assignment. Monitoring involves several levels of the organization and includes psychological monitoring to identify and deal with inappropriate handling of stressors. In addition, whenever possible management should involve the undercover operative in planning the termination of the undercover assignment. Checklists and footnote.