What is a prohibited action in an undercover operation?

Participation in any act of violence is considered a prohibited action in an undercover operation because it directly contravenes the fundamental principles of law enforcement and ethical behavior. Undercover operations aim to gather intelligence, infiltrate criminal organizations, and ultimately support legal prosecutions while maintaining the safety of agents and the public. Engaging in violence not only risks physical harm but also undermines the integrity of the operation and can lead to civil liability issues for law enforcement agencies.

In addition, conducting operations without resorting to violence helps to preserve the rule of law and the agent's credibility, which is essential for gathering actionable intelligence and building trust within communities. Overall, the prohibition of violence differentiates undercover work from criminal activity, emphasizing that law enforcement must operate within legal boundaries while achieving its objectives.