How To Spot Undercover Cops
By Ex Narc, Barry Cooper [Updated 2020]
Please use these tips to help you avoid being arrested by undercover police officers. During my career I worked undercover in dozens of drug investigations. I bought drugs. I sold drugs. I traded guns for drugs. I did all of this under the direction of the United States government.
Looking back, I regret helping cage nonviolent citizens. That is why I wrote this guide. My goal now is to help people recognize the warning signs of undercover officers before they get caught in a setup.
If you want to understand how police investigations lead to arrests, you should also read how drug cases are built against defendants.
Even today I am frequently criticized by law enforcement for revealing how undercover operations work in my film Never Get Busted and later in NeverGetRaided. The truth is that undercover drug enforcement often causes more harm to citizens than the drugs themselves.
Is the war on drugs dangerous?
The truth about the War on Drugs is rarely discussed honestly. Media coverage often creates the impression that officers are constantly risking their lives in drug operations.
However, data such as the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports shows a very different reality. Between 1996 and 2006, only 28 officers died during drug related operations nationwide. Meanwhile millions of citizens lost their freedom or their lives because of drug enforcement policies.
The real question is why the life of a citizen is often treated as less valuable than the life of a police officer.
NoteTo: Any officer worried about me teaching citizens how to spot them. Stop working as undercover cops, because you are causing more harm than the offender. I know what it is like. I have been there.
Do undercover cops have to tell you they are working undercover?
No. Undercover police officers are not legally required to tell you they are law enforcement. This is one of the most common myths people believe.
During undercover operations suspects would often ask if I was a cop. Many believed the myth that I was required to tell them the truth. I would simply respond, “No, I’m not a cop.” That answer made people comfortable enough to continue the transaction.
Are police allowed to use drugs?
The short answer is no, police officers are generally not allowed to use drugs during undercover operations. However, officers are trained to convincingly pretend to use drugs in order to maintain their cover.
One common trick is mimicking a joint hit without actually inhaling. Smoke is passed through the mouth and nose without entering the lungs. Officers practice techniques like this to appear authentic during investigations. But do not threaten them as use of drugs is easily forgiven if life is at risk. This is also true in the UK. They also are not allowed to use Sex while undercover.
How can you test the police for being undercover?
One method I often used to expose undercover officers was insisting they take a large bong hit in front of me. It is extremely difficult to convincingly fake a bong hit.
Informants and officers are usually instructed not to actually ingest drugs. Because of this, someone who refuses to participate while still pushing for a deal may raise suspicion.
These tactics are also important to understand if you are trying to protect yourself during a drug investigation.
When I was on the force I was often drug tested immediately after an operation. This was to prove “without a doubt” I didn’t take drugs well undercover. The test results would be added to the prosecutor’s file in case the defendant claimed I was a user. While there are rare exceptions, most officers will avoid actual drug use during undercover operations. So I am suspicious of any person who is unwilling to hit a bong. It should be said though you can pretty much always pass a drug test.
What should you do when your friend gets busted?
If your friend has recently been arrested for drug charges, avoid any involvement in drug transactions with them.
Many defendants cooperate with police in order to reduce their own charges. This means they may be asked to introduce investigators to other people involved in drug activity.
What if he is my best friend or drug dealer?
Undercover officers and informants are trained to manipulate relationships and gain trust. Even close friends may cooperate with police if they are facing serious charges.
Protect yourself first. Avoid risky situations until the legal situation is completely resolved.
What steps can I take to avoid being setup?
One warning sign is when someone refuses to change meeting locations before a drug transaction. Police prefer controlled locations where surveillance teams are already positioned.
If someone refuses to move or insists on a specific location, it may indicate an undercover operation. Your freedom is never worth the risk.
Facing Drug Charges? Consult Former Narcotics Officer Barry Cooper
