ABSTRACT
Undercover work is best described as a drama involving three main participants: the informant, the suspect, and the undercover agent. Undercover agents are dedicated, intelligent, and hard-working individuals. Their role is to counter the moves and intentions of the suspect. Governments, armies, and the police have long-used undercover agents and informants. Undercover work involves the agent masquerading as an underworld figure or an authority official that can be “bought.” The undercover agent will usually have been in contact with the suspect for several hours prior to the arrest and will undoubtedly have more information to give to the arresting agents. The undercover agent finds that he must rely on his intelligence and resourcefulness to deflect any question regarding his personal life, professional business, and involvement in illegal activities. The role of the undercover agent in a sting operation is usually limited to that of pretending to be a conduit for the contraband or activity.
