A Look Undercover. - Security

The undercover officer brings several images to mind. But the myth of the rogue undercover officer is just that -- a myth.

"The most important qualities to look for when hiring undercover officers are ethics and integrity," says Elizabeth Brantner, Law Enforcement Training Network (LETN) and a 20-year law enforcement veteran. "These people need to be on "your" side, so be sure to research all prospects."

Working undercover is something that requires training and commitment. There is any number of reasons to hire undercover security professionals, and there are many issues to contend with.

Who"s Right for the Job?

"Undercover officers are sometimes off-duty cops, but that is not always the case," Brantner says. "You can hire private security officers to work undercover as well."

Before deciding on the best person for the job, ask yourself the following questions: Why am I hiring undercover officers? What do I want to accomplish? The goal will help determine who is best for the job.

"Sometimes, private undercover security officers will work in conjunction with local law enforcement, depending on what the employer wants to accomplish."

If an off-duty police officer is best for the job, there are a couple of things to look into ahead of time. Most local police departments have their own regulations for hiring off-duty police officers.

If hiring off-duty cops in a small town, hire from another jurisdiction than the establishment/case they are working. In many small towns, everyone knows each other so local cops are not effective. However, make sure to stay within the same county/court district in the event there is a trial.

Many private security firms specialize in undercover operations as well. Whichever way you decide to go, make sure the officers are properly trained.

The Importance of Training

"Hiring people that are already trained in the security business is sometimes a better way to go because they are committed to the business," Brantner says . "Be careful of those who are killing time waiting for cop jobs, because they may not take the work as seriously. And never hire someone who thinks undercover work is "cool" -- watching "Serpico" one hundred times does not qualify someone to work undercover."

Training is an issue that has come to the forefront in the wake of several high-profile incidents throughout the country.

"It is best to require documented proof of training before hiring anyone," Brantner says. "That could be as simple as a memo signed by the training officer and trainee, but at least it is documented. In the event that something goes wrong, proof of training can make the difference in terms of liability."

Brantner also notes that it"s important to train everyone you hire exactly the same way, regardless of experience.

Finally, whether hiring an off- duty cop or private security to work undercover, make sure to carefully research each candidate. Interview prospective undercover officers, conduct background checks, polygraph tests, credit checks, and drug screening. Never forget that ethics and integrity are the most important qualities.

Working Undercover

There is any number of reasons to hire undercover security officers. Retail security, employee theft and narcotics are just a few situations where undercover officers are used. In any situation, Brantner notes, there are basic rules to follow.

First, it is important that an officer research the "role" he or she will play. That means looking and sounding the part. Branter says that cops and security officers often make mistakes due to lack or preparation.

"We had an officer who was working a case which involved him working under cover at a Rave party," Brantner says. "This was a 45-year-old man who went in dressed in a flannel shirt, which is not typical Rave party-wear. Needless to say, he was not very inconspicuous. It"s important to talk the talk, too. If you are working a situation where narcotics are involved, you need to be up on the latest terminology. Drug slang changes, and officers need to stay current," Brantner says.

Undercover officers sometimes use props to work a situation. The use of props helps officers get up close to their targets. Cellular phones are a great way to get close to someone. Another tactic that works is officers posing as couples. This is especially effective in retail security, Brantner notes. Targets do not expect undercover officers to patrol as couples.

Undercover officers sometimes use special types of equipment to help with a job. Binoculars, panic buttons, night vision goggles and body wires are just some types of equipment. Be careful when using body wires, however. "Overhear" laws vary from state to state. If you are planning to use a tape in court, make sure the state allows it.

Finally, undercover officers do sometimes carry weapons. This is an area that needs extreme caution. Laws for weapons vary from state to state. Brantner strongly encourages the employer and employee to know the rules.

"There are less lethal weapons that undercover officers can use, such as sprays and batons. However, good training will prevent you from having to use weapons. Drugs and TVs are not worth a person"s life," says Brantner.

The life of an undercover officer entails a certain degree of risk and excitement. One thing"s for sure -- there"s never a dull moment.