DEA Investigative Procedures Flashcards

Which of the following best describes a 'reverse sting' operation used by DEA?

Answer: An operation where DEA agents pose as drug suppliers selling to would-be buyers

In a reverse sting, DEA agents act as sellers to identify and arrest individuals attempting to purchase illegal drugs.

What is the significance of the 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine for DEA investigators?

Answer: Evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures is generally inadmissible in court

This exclusionary rule doctrine holds that any evidence derived from an unconstitutional search or seizure cannot be used to prosecute a defendant.

What is a 'pen register' as used in DEA investigations?

Answer: A device that records outgoing phone numbers dialed from a target telephone

A pen register captures outgoing dialed numbers and requires a court order under 18 U.S.C. § 3122, providing call pattern intelligence without capturing content.

DEA's Asset Forfeiture Program allows the government to seize property that is:

Answer: Proceeds of or used to facilitate a drug trafficking offense

Federal asset forfeiture targets property directly linked to drug crimes — either the proceeds of trafficking or property used to facilitate it.

What is a 'wall stop' in the context of a DEA traffic interdiction investigation?

Answer: A vehicle stop made without a known nexus to the specific investigation to avoid revealing the source of information

A wall stop protects sensitive intelligence sources by having a separate officer make the stop on an independent basis unrelated to the confidential tip.

Under Miranda v. Arizona, DEA agents must advise a suspect of their rights before:

Answer: Custodial interrogation

Miranda warnings are required before questioning a suspect who is in custody and is being interrogated; they are not required simply for arrest or search.