INFORMANT Meaning and
Definition
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An informant is an individual who provides information to law enforcement agencies or other authorities, typically in order to assist in the investigation or prevention of criminal activities. The role of an informant is usually voluntary or, in some cases, may stem from a plea bargain or reduced sentence agreement made with the authorities.
Informants are often involved in illicit activities themselves and have insider knowledge or access to sensitive information regarding criminal organizations or individuals. They may report on planned crimes, provide intelligence on criminal networks, or testify as a witness in court proceedings. Informants can serve as a valuable resource to law enforcement agencies by supplying information that might otherwise be difficult to obtain through traditional means.
The use of informants is common in various fields such as drug enforcement, organized crime investigations, terrorism prevention, and undercover operations. Confidentiality is of utmost importance in the relationship between an informant and the authorities. In many cases, the identity of an informant is kept confidential to protect them from retaliation or harm.
The usage of informants in law enforcement has been a subject of significant debate, as it raises ethical concerns such as entrapment, reliance on potentially unreliable sources, and the potential for abuse of power. Proper guidelines and oversight are crucial to maintaining the integrity of informant-based investigations and balancing the need for justice with individuals' rights and protections.
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One who communicates intelligence or news.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for INFORMANT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for INFORMANT
Etymology of INFORMANT
The word informant originated from the Latin word informare, which means to give form to or to shape. In the late 16th century, it was adopted into English as informant with the general sense of one who gives information or makes known.
Similar spelling words for INFORMANT
- infirmity,
- informed,
- inpour,
- informally,
- in front of,
- informatics,
- infirm,
- informer,
- informality,
- informing,
- in front,
- in for,
- informative,
- informal,
- inborn,
- enviroment,
- informatory,
- inform,
- infant,
- information,
- cross-informant,
- ENFORMENT,
- inboard.
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