A fixed surveillance or stakeout must be well planned. It can be conducted from a
store, apartment, house, or automobile.
A thorough check of the area from which
the surveillance is to be made must be conducted. All available equipment must be
provided. Equipment includes--
o
Binoculars.
o
Electronic investigative aids.
o
Cameras.
o
Sound recording devices.
Special arrangements may be required to provide relief for the surveillant or for
communications between the surveillant and his superiors. At certain times it may
be advantageous for the surveillant to assume a role. He could become a repairman,
a salesman, or some other occupation that will not draw attention. Disguised vans
or trucks used as observation posts are also a good idea.
Selecting Undercover Investigators
Undercover investigators are selected because of the training and experience they
possess. The assignment requires self-confidence and an ability to adjust to the
roles they play.
It is often too risky to take notes, so a good memory and recall ability are
essential. Facts are committed to memory and recorded at a later date.
A knowledge of the elements of proof and the ability to make quick, sound decisions
in uncertain situations is a must. Undercover personnel are sometimes required to
operate on their own for long periods of time.
When required to masquerade as a particular profession, it is desirable that the MP
investigator be skilled in that profession. His appearance must also be compatible
with the environment.
Some assignments require a certain ethnic background and
language skills.
Anything you can learn about the subject will be of great help.
The nature,
habits, interests, and routines of a subject must be studied. If an organization
is involved, you must learn about its purpose and, if possible, the names of its
members. Any data you have about the subject will be of great value. If you must
gain the subject's confidence and develop a friendship through mutual interest, it
is essential that the investigator be well versed in any area he claims to be an
expert in.
Undercover operations are dangerous.
They should be used only when absolutely
necessary.
All intended activities must be coordinated with the proper
authorities, such as area headquarters.
Investigators cannot go underground in a
command without permission of the provost marshal or USACIDC commander.
MP2004
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