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.
The Michigan Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions between law enforcement agencies and confidential informants. This agreement ensures that all parties involved are aware of their rights and responsibilities, as well as the limitations and expectations associated with the informant's role. Confidential informants play a crucial role in criminal investigations by providing useful and often sensitive information to law enforcement authorities. The Agreement of Understanding serves as a documented agreement between the informant and the law enforcement agency, establishing a clear understanding of their relationship and the legal boundaries within which they must operate. Key provisions within the Michigan Agreement of Understanding may include: 1. Identification and Status: The agreement outlines the confidential informant's personal details, such as their name, address, and any known aliases. It also verifies their legal status, ensuring they are not a law enforcement officer or acting under coercion. 2. Purpose and Scope: The agreement clearly defines the purpose for which the informant will be utilized, whether it is for the investigation of a specific crime, gathering intelligence on criminal organizations, or any other lawful purpose. It also outlines the duration and scope of the informant's involvement. 3. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure: This provision establishes that all information shared by the informant, including their identity, should be kept confidential by the law enforcement agency. It emphasizes that the agency must take the necessary measures to protect the informant's safety and prevent any unauthorized disclosure. 4. Compensation and Expenses: The agreement may address the compensation or reimbursement of expenses incurred by the informant during the course of their cooperation, such as living expenses or travel costs. The specific terms and conditions for compensation will be outlined, including the frequency of payments and any limitations on the amount that can be claimed. 5. Rights and Immunities: To safeguard the informant's interests, this section clarifies any rights and immunities they may be entitled to during the agreement. It ensures that the informant will receive necessary protections, such as legal representation, in case of any legal complications arising from their cooperation. There are different types of Michigan Agreements of Understanding with Confidential Informants, each tailored to specific circumstances. Some examples include: 1. Drug Enforcement Agreement: This type of agreement focuses on confidential informants primarily involved in drug-related investigations, such as those targeting drug trafficking networks or illegal drug manufacturing operations. 2. Organized Crime Agreement: Designed for informants involved in investigations related to organized criminal activities, such as gang operations, money laundering, or racketeering. 3. Terrorism-Related Agreement: This agreement addresses informants providing information on suspected terrorist activities or individuals connected to terrorist organizations, assisting in the prevention and detection of potential threats. Ultimately, the Michigan Agreement of Understanding with Confidential Informant ensures that the relationship between law enforcement agencies and informants is well-defined, protecting the rights and interests of both parties while enabling effective collaboration in the fight against crime.
