ABSTRACT
The principles of undercover work are simple enough: infiltrate the target criminal group, obtain the evidence, effect an arrest, and testify in court. The initiation of the undercover case most often originates with an indispensable and sometimes disparaged partner — the informant. Working with an informant is very sensitive simply because of his positioning or relationship to the suspect. Whenever an agent prepares a complaint or warrant based upon information received from an informant, he must articulate the reliability of the informant and the likely accuracy of the information. Shielding the informant’s identity is of utmost importance and concern to the agent and the agency conducting the undercover work. An undercover agent must project an image of strength and control. Physical preparation for doing undercover work is as important as the mental. The undercover agent’s car and wallet must be carefully searched to remove any papers or articles that would arouse the suspect’s suspicions.
