If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey related to the use of a confidential informant, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced Bergen County Criminal Defense Attorney who can help explore your defense options. Please continue reading to learn how confidential informants can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
What is a Confidential Informant?
A confidential informant is an individual who provides information to law enforcement about criminal activity in exchange for some type of compensation or leniency for their unlawful actions. Confidential informants play an instrumental role in many New Jersey drug cases. These individuals are often referred to as CIs. A CI can be anyone from a concerned citizen to an individual involved in criminal activities. The information they provide law enforcement can significantly affect the outcome of a case.
CIs have various reasons for providing information to the police. As such, law enforcement is responsible for determining their motivation to successfully solicit accurate information regarding criminal activity. CIs often face serious risks to their safety if they are discovered. They can be compared to undercover agents as they are typically used to infiltrate criminal organizations.
Can Defendants Use CI Information to Their Advantage?
Generally, prosecutors work closely with CIs to strengthen their case against drug offenders. While the general rule is that the prosecution doesn’t need to disclose the identity of a CI, there are exceptions to this rule. Defendants may be able to utilize information about CIs to their advantage. For example, defendants may request details about the informant’s identity and past involvement in criminal activities to challenge the credibility of the evidence. In some cases, a CI may have a track record of deceit or providing false information. This can undermine their credibility and the integrity of the evidence they have provided.
In addition, an attorney can argue that the CI had a personal motive for providing information, such as receiving leniency for their criminal activities or revenge against the defendant. This will demonstrate that the CI had a vested interest in the case’s outcome which can cast doubt on the impartiality of their testimony. Furthermore, when a CI is being cross-examined, they will compare their statements with other evidence. Any inconsistencies in their account can be challenged, particularly if the CI gave different versions of events or if their testimony doesn’t align with the prosecution’s physical evidence. These are just a few ways in which an attorney can use a CI to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.
As you can see, confidential informants can provide integral information in criminal investigations. At The Law Office of Carl Spector, we are dedicated to ensuring our clients are treated fairly and have their rights upheld throughout the criminal justice process. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you.
