Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What should an officer gather about an informant to build credibility?

1. Personal history

2. Trustworthiness assessment

3. Public reputation

4. Criminal record

The correct answer is: Trustworthiness assessment

To build credibility regarding an informant, gathering a trustworthiness assessment is essential. This involves evaluating the informant's history of providing reliable information, their motivations for sharing information, and any prior interactions with law enforcement. Understanding whether the informant has a pattern of truthful reporting or if they have previously provided accurate insights in criminal investigations is crucial. Assessing trustworthiness allows officers to gauge the likelihood that the information provided can lead to actionable intelligence or successful prosecutions. It also helps in determining if the informant has ulterior motives or if they are simply seeking personal gain, which might compromise the reliability of their information. Thus, establishing a clear picture of the informant’s trustworthiness is fundamental to effectively utilizing their insight in law enforcement operations.