NCJ Number
122337
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 58 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1989) Pages: 24-29
Date Published
1989
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Law enforcement officers should carry out electronic surveillance in a manner that ensures compliance for the sealing of the original tapes to ensure that the tapes can be admitted as evidence.
Abstract
Nonconsensual electronic surveillance through the interception of telephone conversations, oral conversations, and electronic messages is a necessary and effective law enforcement technique for investigating certain types of serious criminal activity and conspiracies. Title III of the 1968 Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Acts as amended in 1986 sets forth the legal requirements for this type of surveillance. Compliance with the provisions of this law and various State laws can be costly in time, money, and personnel. However, it is crucial to comply with these provisions. Thus, the original tapes of any court-ordered nonconsensual interception must be immediately returned to the authorizing judicial official for sealing. List of specific recommended procedures and 34 reference notes are included.