NCJ Number
124642
Date Published
1990
Length
113 pages
Annotation
Drawing extensively from his own experience as an undercover (U/C) investigator, the author provides practical advice on planning, initiating, and conducting undercover operations.
Abstract
A chapter on beginning an undercover operation notes the importance of determining that an ongoing criminal enterprise exists before mounting a costly undercover operation. Other aspects of planning involve the selection of the target, short-range and long-range undercover efforts, U/C locations, funding, personnel resources, and the case scenario. Off-site headquarters where U/C investigators can conduct meetings among themselves and with supervisors are also discussed. Factors considered are safety, inhouse security, an official atmosphere, and layout. Methods of U/C infiltration are described, as are "scouting missions," which involve observing targets and their activities prior to making contact. A number of chapters focus on the dangers of U/C work, identifying the warning signs of danger and suggesting ways to deal with various threats. Other chapters discuss mental preparation for U/C work, adoption of "street" jargon, first contacts with the target, documentation of U/C information, and U/C "sting" facilities. Remaining topics addressed are U/C supervision, the supervision and coordination of multiagency U/C operations, court preparation, avoidance of an identity crisis, and "re-entry" after the U/C operation is completed. Glossary.