Covert & Overt Investigation Methods Flashcards

When conducting a covert surveillance operation, what is the PRIMARY purpose of establishing a 'cover story' or legend?

Answer: To provide the investigator with a plausible explanation for their presence if questioned

A cover story or legend gives the investigator a credible explanation for their presence or identity if they are unexpectedly confronted or questioned.

Which surveillance technique involves an investigator following a subject using multiple vehicles that rotate positions to avoid detection?

Answer: Leapfrog surveillance

Leapfrog surveillance uses multiple vehicles that take turns following the subject, with others moving ahead or dropping back to prevent the subject from identifying a single tail.

An investigator conducting an overt interview of a witness should do which of the following to establish rapport before asking sensitive questions?

Answer: Start with non-threatening, easy-to-answer questions to build comfort

Building rapport through easy, non-threatening questions helps relax the witness and increases the likelihood of obtaining candid, accurate information.

In covert investigations, 'pretext' most accurately refers to:

Answer: A fabricated or assumed identity or scenario used to elicit information

Pretext involves assuming a false identity or creating a fictitious scenario to obtain information or access that would otherwise be denied.

When is it generally permissible for a private investigator to photograph an individual without their consent in the United States?

Answer: When the individual is in a public location where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy

Photography in public spaces is generally lawful because individuals in public areas have no reasonable expectation of privacy, though state laws may impose additional restrictions.

Which of the following best describes a 'fixed surveillance' (also called a 'stationary' or 'plant') observation post?

Answer: A stationary position from which an investigator monitors a specific location or subject

A fixed surveillance post is a stationary location — such as a parked vehicle, building, or natural feature — from which an investigator observes a specific area or subject.

During an overt investigation, a CSI is interviewing a potentially hostile witness. Which technique is most appropriate?

Answer: Use the cognitive interview technique to enhance recall without coercion

The cognitive interview technique uses memory-enhancing strategies (mental reinstatement, context recall) that are ethical, non-coercive, and effective with resistant witnesses.