o
Location of entrances and exits.
o
Vantage points to observe.
o
Character of the neighborhood. (The activity in the area must be considered
as it may endanger the investigation.)
All of this information helps determine how the surveillance will be conducted and
how many surveillants will be required.
Select qualified personnel for their expertise and patience. They should look no
different from the man on the street in the area or neighborhood they are working.
In particular, their appearance must not reflect that they are law enforcement
officers.
The surveillance might require a certain ethnic background or language.
Patience is of the utmost importance. Long periods of time with no activity must
be endured without becoming discouraged.
Identifying the Subject.
The best method of identifying the subject is to point
him out to the surveillant.
This allows the surveillant to make his own
observations. Any information about the subject's known habits or contacts should
be turned over to the surveillant.
He should always be given photographs and
detailed, accurate descriptions of the subject. Information about a subject's car,
including a photograph, should be obtained if possible.
Preparing the Surveillant. The surveillant should know as much as possible about
the investigation so he may accurately interpret the actions of the subject.
A
surveillance plan is necessary to ensure that all contingencies are prepared for.
The plan should include--
o
The general concepts of operations and duties.
o
Cover stories for each surveillant.
o
Alternate courses of action and communications.
o
Equipment to be used.
The surveillant should be ready to use a cover story if confronted by the subject.
Individual resourcefulness is irreplaceable in a situation where a cover story has
to be related.
Alternate courses of action are also planned to allow the surveillant to anticipate
and react smoothly to any change that might occur. Communication is coordinated in
an effort to ensure the success of the operation.
Bad communication will spell
failure.
The surveillant should be supplied with the equipment required for the operation.
The list can include items such as radios, weapons, and vehicles.
MP2004
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