The use of informants is vital to the success of the drug enforcement operations of any law enforcement agency. Rarely can a drug case be developed without the services of informants at some stage of the investigation. This is why knowing the proper procedures for handling informants is important for officers. The material in this manual was developed through the misfortune of many who have used informants. Use of the manual will help maintain the integrity of the department, the controlling officer and the investigation. Police departments that do not set-up and maintain a standardized system for the development and control of informants will be subject to intense scrutiny and criticism by the courts and the community.