How should you handle statements from confidential informants or protected sources in a report?

• A. Include identifying details to verify authenticity.
• B. Share the full statement verbatim without redaction.
• C. Publish the informant's identity to maintain credibility.
• D. Maintain confidentiality, redact identifying details per policy, and provide non-identifying information sufficient to support the investigation.

Answer: (D)

Handling statements from confidential informants or protected sources requires protecting their identity while still providing enough detail to support the investigation. The best approach is to maintain confidentiality, redact identifying details per policy, and include non-identifying information that shows how the statement contributes to the case.

Protecting the informant means not exposing names, addresses, precise locations, or any other details that could reveal who provided the information. Redaction should follow agency policy, not only in the report but in any dissemination of materials. What you include in the report should focus on what the informant said in a way that demonstrates relevance to the investigation without giving up who or where they are. Summarize or paraphrase the statement, capture the gist and timelines, and note how the information supports leads, corroborates other evidence, or informs actions taken. You can also document the reliability concerns, the source’s role (confidential informant or protected source), and the date or method of collection to provide context, while still keeping identity private. When appropriate, mention how the information was obtained, how it was verified, and any limitations in its use.

This approach preserves safety and ethical obligations, protects ongoing operations, and aligns with policy, while still presenting a credible, usable record for investigators and prosecutors. Sharing identifying details or publishing the informant’s full statement verbatim can reveal who they are, expose them to risk, and breach policy, which is why those practices are not appropriate. Publishing the source’s identity is likewise inappropriate, as it undermines confidentiality and endangers everyone involved.