What risk can arise from the use of confidential informants?

The use of confidential informants poses significant risks, particularly the threat of retaliation from criminal organizations. Informants often provide law enforcement with sensitive information about criminal activities, which places them in vulnerable positions. If their identities are disclosed or suspected, they may face serious repercussions from criminal associates or organizations seeking to silence them. This can include physical harm, threats, or even murder.

In contrast, while increased crime rates in the community may or may not be related to the use of informants, it is not a direct consequence of their involvement. Legal immunity for law enforcement doesn’t automatically apply in situations involving informants, as officers must still operate within the law. Additionally, while surveillance operations can incur high costs, this is more a logistical concern rather than a direct risk associated with informants themselves. Therefore, the potential for retaliation is a critical and immediate concern when utilizing confidential informants in policing practices.