The Need for Undercover Operations

The Need for Undercover Operations

Trampas Jackson

University of Phoenix

Introduction

Undercover investigations take a proactive approach in deterring and capturing criminals. According to a special report published in 2005 by the Office of the Inspector General for the FBI; “The use of undercover techniques, including proprietary business entities, is essential to the detection, prevention, and prosecution of white collar crime, public corruption, terrorism, organized crime, offenses involving controlled substances, and other priority areas of investigation” (FBI).

Undercover Operations Methods

Undercover operations require all of those involved to bend or break certain ethical boundaries in order to make a successful arrest or get valuable information. Some of the techniques they use are often harmless which is comprised of lies and deception. The types of lies they use are identified as blue lies, accepted lies, tolerated lies and deviant lies. These methods when controlled can be very effective in preventing and deterring future criminal activity. These methods are considered under utilitarian ethics. In other words, the benefit from such operations and methods justifies the deception needed to prevent and stop criminal activities.

Successful Undercover Operations

Undercover operations are dangerous and require officers to cross ethical boundaries in order to be successful. Joe Pistone, better known as Donnie Brasco successful undercover operation led to over 100 convictions of organized crime members (Department of Justice Canada, 2012). Another successful undercover operation was conducted by the Canadians that resulted in 190 criminal charges an anticipated 36 corporations and 65 individuals (Department of Justice Canada, 2012). Although undercover operations cross many ethical boundaries there societal utility/ benefit greatly outweighs the consequences.

References

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