North Dakota has recently brought into force new legislation relating to the management of confidential informants. This legislation is a direct result of the death of a confidential informant Andrew Sadek. you can read the new legislation here:
http://www.legis.nd.gov/assembly/65-2017/documents/17-0595-06000.pdf
and details of the case here:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/north-dakota-confidential-informants_us_58ff96e4e4b0f5463a1a793f
It is unfortunate to say the least that it takes the death of a person before legislatures and law enforcement seem to realise that managing confidential informants is a risky business and that those involved required significant training,
With regard to the specific legislation unfortunately it is poorly written. There is significant ambiguity with regard to the definition of a confidential informant and one that undoubtedly will be exploited by those not wishing to comply with the legislation. I find it hard to believe it was drafted by a trained lawyer and it is obvious that if it was drafted by a lawyer, it was drafted with one who has no idea about managing confidential informants.
On a positive side making training mandatory every three years is a very progressive move provided that the training that has to be delivered is fit for purpose. Basic training to manage informants takes a minimum of two weeks of both theoretical and practical tuition. The work should only be carried out by officers who are assessed a being suitable for the role against agreed standards.
If an agency needs ideas about training please do not hesitate to get in contact.
