NCJ Number
82237
Date Published
1981
Length
60 pages
Annotation
Testimony and statements are presented regarding the development of the Federal witness security program. Recommendations for its improvement are proposed.
Abstract
The Federal witness security program was developed to protect witnesses against organized crime figures. Witnesses are protected prior to, during trials, and after trials, to the extent of relocating and creating new identities for witnesses and their families. Program pioneers were Federal marshals who had no special training in or precedents for the kinds of tasks they performed. Mistakes have occurred most often in providing prompt documentation and help in finding employment for relocated witnesses with new identities. Further, witnesses have been exposed to possible harm by oversights and thoughtless remarks by program personnel. In some instances, marshals have not been sufficiently sensitive to the stress in relocated witnesses and their families. Despite its difficulties, however, the program has been a valuable law enforcement tool. Its management has continued to improve, and personnel are better trained. A principal recommendation is that the Justice Department create a special unit responsible for the program, separate from the Marshals Service, and subject to the control and supervision of the Justice Department. Another 24 recommendations are presented.