Law enforcement officers focus on finding evidence to make arrests when handling drug cases. However, if their methods do not follow the law, it can be a violation of your rights.
The use of confidential informants in serious drug cases can provide proof, but an officer must follow the rules for this evidence to be admissible in court.
What are confidential informants?
Confidential informants are people who face criminal penalties and choose to work with law enforcement in exchange for a dismissal or reduction of their charges. Sometimes they even receive payment. An informant may be one of your friends, a drug dealer or someone who works with you. The information officers obtain from them can lead to your arrest and provide evidence against you in your trial.
How do confidential informants gather evidence for the police?
Wisconsin has specific rules regarding the use of confidential informants in their investigations. It is vital to understand these laws to defend your case. Informants can collect proof by wearing a recording device, camera or wire. They may also execute controlled buys with undercover police present as witnesses.
How can you defend drug charges when police use confidential informants?
A thorough understanding of investigation laws and techniques can help you fight your case in court. Analyzing the process officers used in your investigation can reveal possible rights violations. There are specific requirements for handling wiretaps and controlled buys. If law enforcement officials or the informant fail to follow these rules, or if the informant is generally dishonest, it may be possible to suppress the resulting evidence in your trial.
While police can use confidential informants in their investigations, you can defend your charges in court when you know the laws related to this method of gathering evidence.
