Examining all the key issues to consider when deploying investigative tools under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) and the Investigatory Powers Act 2016, Covert Investigation is a highly practical and detailed guide to this important, complex, and sometimes controversial area of the law. This sixth edition of Covert Investigation has been fully revised to incorporate amendments to RIPA enacted by the Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Act 2021, setting the moral and legal context for the ethical management and implementation of covert investigations, and the statutory principles underpinning such interventions. Its first Part discusses the issues facing authorizing officers and focuses on practical management issues from both strategic and operational perspectives, including the management of risk. Part 2 concentrates on the statutory elements of covert investigations, addressing directed and intrusive surveillance, property interference and surveillance through communications and the data generated. It includes detailed discussion of the use of covert human intelligence sources, especially the significant moral issues arising from relationship manipulation and privacy intrusion. The authors present clear and concise guidance to ensure that applications for covert investigations are made only in appropriate circumstances and that such investigations are undertaken with integrity. Featuring a range of helpful tools, such as scenarios, tips, and checklists, this edition is an essential resource for police and non-police investigators alike The book forms part of the Blackstone's Practical Policing Series. The series, aimed at junior to middle ranking officers, consists of practical guides containing clear and detailed explanations of the relevant legislation and practice, accompanied by case studies, illustrative diagrams, and useful checklists.

This title provides a clear introduction and practical guide to the use of intelligence in policing, offering detailed explanations of relevant legislation and establishing the theoretical and operational context and rationale within which intelligence can be used. The relationship between criminal procedural law and intelligence-gathering is outlined and different generic sources of intelligence (overt and covert) are introduced. The book offers advice on planning an intelligence operation, analysing and evaluating information, using intelligence-based evidence in court, identifying risk and protecting sensitive sources. It also summarises the role of key agencies involved in intelligence gathering, outlines the National Intelligence Model and draws together key findings from the Butler and Bichard enquiries. The book forms part of the Blackstone's Practical Policing Series. The series, aimed at junior to middle ranking officers, consists of practical guides containing clear and detailed explanations of the relevant legislation and practice, accompanied by case studies, illustrative diagrams and useful checklists. A truly practical guide to all aspects of policing intelligence, from planning and gathering to analysis