VICE ISNT NICE - A LOOK AT THE EFFECTS OF WORKING UNDERCOVER

This study examined the consequences of working undercover for police officers. In-depth personal interviews were conducted with 40 present and former undercover officers representing three federal law enforcement agencies and eight municipal police departments located in the greater Denver metropolitan area. Focusing on role dynamics and situated identity in undercover assignments, the study explored the impact of work experiences on officers with respect to their interaction with informants and suspects, interpersonal relations with family and friends, and readjustment to routine police duties.