A confidential informants work for the government, often secretly, to gather and provide information or to testify, sometimes in exchange for cash or leniency in punishment for their own crimes. Courts have clearly recognized that confidential police informers play a vital role in law enforcement. The near absolute privilege attached to the identity of these individuals is premised upon the duty of all citizens to aid in enforcing the law and is meant to protect these individuals against retribution from those involved in crime.
This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular state. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Title: Understanding the Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant Introduction: The Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant is a legally binding document that establishes the terms, conditions, and expectations between law enforcement agencies and confidential informants. This agreement outlines the rights, responsibilities, and safeguards for both parties involved in ongoing investigations. This article aims to provide a detailed description of the Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant, highlighting its key components and types if applicable. 1. Purpose and Scope: The Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant serves as a crucial tool for law enforcement agencies, enabling them to establish a collaborative and structured relationship with confidential informants. It defines the cooperation and support provided by the confidential informant in an investigation. 2. Key Components: a. Confidential Informant's Role: This section defines the scope of the confidential informant's involvement, including providing accurate and reliable information, cooperating with law enforcement, and conducting controlled buys or other proactive activities. b. Protection and Security: This component ensures the utmost safety of the confidential informant, detailing measures to safeguard their identity, location, and personal well-being. It may include provisions for relocation, witness protection programs, and anonymity. c. Compensation and Incentives: If applicable, the agreement may outline financial compensation, rewards, or sentencing reductions for the confidential informant, depending on their level of cooperation and the results of the investigation. d. Information Exchange: This section establishes the protocol for exchanging information between the confidential informant and law enforcement, ensuring timely and accurate reporting of activities, progress, and potential risks. e. Confidentiality: The agreement delineates the confidentiality requirements for all parties involved, emphasizing the confidential informant's responsibility to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information and the consequences for breaches. f. Legal Representation: The agreement may address the confidential informant's right to legal representation and the process for seeking counsel if needed. It might also include provisions for the disclosure of the informant's identity to their attorney. 3. Types of Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant: While the Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant is not explicitly categorized into various types, variations can exist based on the nature and scope of the investigation, the confidential informant's criminal history or connections, and the level of involvement required. Some common types may include: a. Standard Informant Agreement: This is the most basic type, covering general information and cooperation requirements. It may lack compensation or incentive clauses. b. Long-term Informant Agreement: This type involves extended periods of cooperation and may include provisions for financial compensation, protection programs, and other enhanced safeguards. c. High-Risk Informant Agreement: These agreements are used when the confidential informant is involved in dangerous criminal networks or investigations, requiring elevated safety measures and potentially greater rewards. Conclusion: The Wisconsin Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant is a crucial legal document that defines the terms, conditions, and expectations governing the relationship between law enforcement agencies and confidential informants. By establishing clear guidelines and protections, this agreement supports effective collaboration, information exchange, and successful investigations.
