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Abstract

This dissertation analyses the ethicalness and effectiveness of the use of informants in policing. It uses a thematic review of academic research, case law, and legislation. The subject of the use of informants in the police is a contentious ethical issue. It is contentious by its very nature, a clandestine tactic in an organisation where transparency is important.
In the structuring of this dissertation, analysis has been carried out on the definition of ethics, the source of the basis of police ethics and their maintenance. Following this an examination of the whole process involved in the use of informants by the police in the United Kingdom was performed. The last area of consideration was the use of informants in two specific crime areas, terrorism and cybercrime.
The research shows that ethics in policing is not a black and white issue. It has been found to change with the roles that exist within the police and society where the nature and needs of the role may determine the ethics that are appropriate.

Course: Policing and Investigation - BSc (Hons)

Date Deposited: 2020-11-25

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13626.html