However, just like any other components of law enforcement, there are challenges with undercover investigations. First off undercover work can be hazardous to an officer’s physical and psychological well-being (Bryjak, 2009). Unfortunately to fit in as a criminal, the undercover agent has to conform to his/her surroundings. This means he/she begins to think and act like a criminal. The officers are also subjected to several degrees of stress (Brvjak, 2009). Also, during undercover operations, undercover agents sometimes engage in illegal activities there self, therefore being fully exposed to the criminal activity. Not only could the agent be subjected to drugs (addiction, hazards), they also lose credibility when they are exposed. …show more content…
An informant is defined as anyone who provides information about a criminal case, but who is not a complainant, witness, or victim (Lyman, 2015). Informants can be concerned citizens doing the right thing, or ruthless criminals providing information for a personal gain. Some personal gains they may receive are a shorter sentence for their testimony, plea bargains or lighter sentences. Informants are also beneficial investigations because they have the ability to get closer to the operation, thus provide information not otherwise