Federal Criminal Law Exam 3 Study Notes

The amount of money ($3,000) above which banks must retain specific information about a funds transfer.

A person who provides information to law enforcement that may not otherwise be available.

An informant who requests that their identity be kept secret and enters an agreement with law enforcement.

An informant who refuses to identify themselves and needs corroboration beyond their statement.

Often the most valuable informant, as they can provide information about criminal activity.

Used to verify the wired funds received by the recipient.

Different types of informants based on the level of confidentiality required and the nature of their information.

Certain groups of people (criminal defendants, etc.) are not allowed to provide information to LE and this should be avoided.

A sudden, shallow role assumption in an undercover operation, such as posing as a tourist.

A form used for criminal arrest booking, containing fingerprint information.

Automated Finger Identification System, used for fingerprint analysis.

The fingerprint card used for criminal arrest booking, with red lettering.

The time limit for submitting a completed DNA kit after collection, which is 24 hours.

Combined DNA Index System, where DNA samples are entered and analyzed.

A unique barcode on the DNA collection device that must match the barcode on the FM 936 form.

Obtaining information or evidence unavailable through other investigative techniques.

Red phosphorus, used in clandestine meth labs, can be found in everyday items like matches and flares (striker plates).

Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine (found in cold medicine) are crucial ingredients in making meth.

Brake cleaner, acetone, and camp fuel are solvents frequently used in clandestine meth labs.

OC spray irritates eyes causing tearing, stinging, and temporary blindness.

OC spray causes coughing, shortness of breath, and gagging when inhaled.

When encountering a clandestine lab, immediately distance yourself, evacuate the area, and notify the proper authorities.

When exposed to OC spray, flush your eyes and face with cool water and get a breeze.

OC spray is not meant for compliance, but for use as intermediary force.

A federal judge's authority extends to cases involving persons or property located within the district. If a person or item moves outside the district before the warrant is executed, the jurisdiction might not apply. Exceptions exist for terrorism and stored communications.

Federal judges have jurisdiction over terrorism-related activities that occur, or any property related to terrorism, within the relevant district.

Warrants for stored electronic communications (like emails) are allowed if issued in the district where the judge's jurisdiction applies to the crime, but the data is physically stored elsewhere.

A warrant that is executed based on a future 'triggering event'.

A search warrant must specify the items or evidence to be seized. The description must be precise, and general searches are illegal.

The connection between the evidence needed in a search warrant and the location to be searched, including time sensitivity.

Planning stationary surveillance involves choosing observation locations near entry/exit points and communication methods.

If evidence is in clear view during a lawful search, officers can seize it without a warrant.

A search warrant obtained over the phone; can be useful for certain circumstances. Circumstances are not specified in the input.

Foot surveillance can utilize one, two, or three officers. The ABC method involves three officers, one nearest the subject, and two others covering him/her.

Vehicle surveillance allows agents to observe remotely, maintain control while driving, and perform notes, radio, and navigation.

Multiple agents in a vehicle can look suspicious and require more personnel.

Foot surveillance evasion techniques include quick stops, direction changes, or mimicking usual activities like window watching or speed changes.

Vehicle evasion involves maneuvers like sudden turns, entering dead-ends, use of caution lights, or changing speed.

Counter-surveillance methods include using dead drops, associating indirectly with people, and avoiding scanners/interceptors as part of an active effort to evade monitoring.

Law Enforcement notes are crucial for recalling investigative details, including contacts, activities via written documents, photos, audio/video, and more.

To prove possession of a controlled substance, the government must demonstrate that the suspect knowingly possessed the substance, which is a controlled substance, and that the possession was unlawful.

When a person has the ability to exercise control over a controlled substance, even if they aren't directly holding it. This can be shown through factors like the substance being in their car, house, or a bag they own.

When two or more people have the ability to control a controlled substance, even if it's not in their direct possession. This can be proven by things like ownership of the car, house, or container the substance is in, along with proximity to it.

Distributing a controlled substance means to transfer it to another person, either directly or indirectly. It can also include manufacturing, dispensing, possessing with intent to distribute, or transferring the substance.

Manufacturing a controlled substance includes any act that produces, prepares, compounds, processes, extracts, or purifies the drug. Growing a plant-based drug like marijuana is considered manufacturing.

Drugs that slow down the central nervous system, reducing anxiety, and causing relaxation. Two categories are narcotics, which include heroin and morphine, and non-narcotics, which include alcohol and tranquilizers.

Drugs that speed up the central nervous system, increasing alertness, energy, and mood. Two main categories are amphetamines like methamphetamine and cocaine.

Drugs that alter perception, thoughts, and feelings, often causing hallucinations and distorted senses. Examples include marijuana, LSD, and PCP.