Functions and Risks of Undercover Operations
During criminal investigations, some law enforcement agencies utilize undercover operations. Undercover operations are operations whereby an officer undergoes training to infiltrate a suspected criminal organization (Lyman, 2018). Subsequently, the officer adapts by using a different identity and lifestyle that best suits the criminal organization. Accordingly, the officer is expected to get involved in the unlawful activities of the criminal organization. Additionally, these operations are susceptible and delicate because the officer’s life is in danger if exposed. Accordingly, undercover operations have various functions, but there are multiple problems associated with them.
Undercover operations have various functions. The first is the provision of information, vital in investigations, which would be unavailable using other investigation techniques. Accordingly, undercover operations would provide information such as suppliers of illegal products, shipping procedures, identities of individuals involved and storage facilities used, which would otherwise be unavailable. Secondly, they improve investigation efficiency through the results of operations. Therefore, undercover operations are essential and effective.
There are various problems associated with undercover operations. The first problem is the risk of the discovery of an undercover officer’s identity. Subsequently, the officer’s identity can be revealed at any given time, and the reaction of the criminal organizations might be fatal. Secondly, undercover operations are time-consuming due to the time taken to arrest the criminals finally. Consequently, the officer cannot contact family, friends, or colleagues during the entire period of operations. Thirdly, operations have a high cost and use a lot of resources. Also, training, officers needed, equipment needed, and the time consumed contribute to the cost and resources used. Finally, undercover operations contribute to increased criminal activity because officers overlook crimes committed and even contribute to illegal activities during the entire period of operations. In conclusion, there are several risks associated with undercover operations, but the results are efficient.
References
Lyman, M., 2018. Criminal investigation; The Art and the Science. 6th ed. Pearson.
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Question 
Functions and Risks of Undercover Operations
Discuss reasons why law enforcement agencies utilize undercover investigations. What problems might an undercover officer face working in this type of environment?
Criminal Investigation
Michael D. Lyman, 2018
Pearson
ISBN.13: 978-0-134-54868-5