subject: Law Enforcement Surveillance Equipment - Staging Undercover Operations [print this page] To succeed in law enforcement, it's best to take a multi-pronged approach to fighting crime. Not only do you have to have officers that are properly trained, and up to date with the latest information that is available on local crime, but technology is now a key factor. Because criminals are becoming ever more sophisticated with the way that they commit crime, law enforcement officials have had to follow suit. That includes using the latest advancements in law enforcement surveillance equipment to carry out operations, especially when going undercover.
For example, microphones and speakers can play a large role in the success of any undercover operation. When you have undercover operatives making contact with their targets, they will need to use this type of law enforcement surveillance equipment to keep a record of the conversation, to use as evidence later. This also allows a backup team to pay attention to what is going on, so that they can send in more officers if necessary and stay in control of any potentially dangerous situations.
Another type of law enforcement surveillance equipment that is used heavily both in undercover and regular operations is the video camera. Hidden cameras are located not only in most places of business, but they are now being installed in homes and even on street corners, so that there is an accurate visual record of what happens should a crime be committed. This evidence may later be used in court as evidence, or it could be used when law enforcement officers are putting together an investigation. The surveillance clues could lead them to a new breakthrough in a case. Cameras are also used for photography purposes, so that the officers have a record of suspects to show witnesses.
Without all of these various technological tools that are now available, it is much more difficult for officers to operate in the field. The makers of law enforcement surveillance equipment have this in mind, to make the operations run more smoothly. Bugging phones, setting up wiretaps, and locating information online takes the other type of visual and audio surveillance to a new level, and helps officers collect the information they need to make others safe. Personal safety is also an issue in any undercover operation, so it's vital that only the highest quality equipment is used. This will help them collect information without it being noticeable to the other party.
