How should a field contact's information be verified?

Verifying a field contact's information is crucial to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the data gathered during an investigation. Using known case facts or public records allows law enforcement professionals to cross-reference and validate the information provided by the contact. This method provides a solid foundation for establishing credibility because it relies on objective sources such as official documents, databases, and established case details.

Utilizing known facts helps investigators to eliminate ambiguity surrounding the contact’s details and enhances the overall integrity of the investigation. For example, checking a witness's reliability against public records, such as addresses or criminal histories, ensures that the investigator is working with verified information rather than assumptions or uncorroborated statements. This corroboration is essential in building a stronger case and avoiding any potential misdirection that could arise from false information.