Department of Justice - The Attorney General's Guidelines Regarding the Use of FBI Confidential Human Sources, 2006

• Locations: United States of America • Topics: Informants, War on Terror, Attorneys General, FBI

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T H E A T T O R N E Y G E N E R A L ' S G U I D E L I N E S REGARDING
T H E USE O F FBI CONFIDENTIAL HUMAN SOURCES

T A B L E OF CONTENTS

G E N E R A L PROVISIONS

PURPOSE A N D SCOPE 1

DEFINITIONS

"Special Agent in Charge" or " S A C "

"Federal Prosecuting Office" or " F P O "

" C h i e f Federal Prosecutor" or " C F P "

"FPO A t t o r n e y "

"Confidential Human Source C o o r d i n a t o r "

" F P O Participating In the Conduct of an Investigation"

"Confidential H u m a n Source"

"Senior Leadership Source"

"High-Level

10.

"Tier

;

Government or Union Source"

1 Otherwise Illegal A c t i v i t y "

11.

" T i e r 2 Otherwise Illegal A c t i v i t y "

12.

"Fugitive"

13.

" H u m a n Source Review Committee" or " H S R C "

14.

" N a t i o n a l Security Investigation"

15.

" I n t e r n a t i o n a l T e r r o r i s m Investigation"

P R O H I B I T I O N ON C O M M I T M E N T S OF I M M U N I T Y BY T H E FBI . . . . 8

MAINTAINING CONFIDENTIALITY

II.

III.

Obligation

Security of Material

Continuing Obligation

Exceptions

Disclosures of Confidential Human Sources

;

9
10

EXCEPTIONS A N D DISPUTE R E S O L U T I O N

R I G H T S O F T H I R D PARTIES

COMPLIANCE

....11

V A L I D A T I O N O F A C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCE

INITIAL VALIDATION

General

Time Limits

Required Information

INSTRUCTIONS

ANNUAL VALIDATION REVIEW

SPECIAL APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

D E F I N E D C A T E G O R I E S O F SOURCES

Required Early A p p r o v a l

"Senior Leadership Source"

"Privileged or Media Source"

"High-Level Government or Union Source"

Long-Term Sources

18
ii

iv.

Approval Process

Composition of the HSRC .. •

Access to F B I Information

Time L i m i t

Notice to FPO

Disputes

International Terrorism or National Security Sources

....20
'.

20
20

F E D E R A L PRISONERS, PROBATIONERS, PAROLEES,
A N D SUPERVISED RELEASEES

C U R R E N T OR F O R M E R P A R T I C I P A N T S I N T H E WITNESS
SECURITY PROGRAM

S T A T E OR L O C A L PRISONERS, P R O B A T I O N E R S , PAROLEES,
O R SUPERVISED RELEASEES

FUGITIVES

RESPONSIBILITIES

REGARDING CONFIDENTIAL

H U M A N SOURCES
A.

;

N O I N T E R F E R E N C E W I T H A N I N V E S T I G A T I O N OF A
C O N F I D E N T I A L SOURCE

P R O H I B I T E D T R A N S A C T I O N S A N D R E L A T I O N S H I P S ..

M O N E T A R Y PAYMENTS

General

Prohibition Against Contingent Payments

Approval for Payments

Documentation of Payment

iii

VI,

Accounting and Reconciliation Procedures

Coordination with Prosecution

A U T H O R I Z A T I O N OF O T H E R W I S E I L L E G A L A C T I V I T Y

G E N E R A L PROVISIONS

A U T H O R I Z A T I O N PROCEDURES

Written Authorization

Findings

Instructions

Precautionary Measures

Suspension of Authorization . . . . . .

Revocation of Authorization

Renewal and Expansion of Authorization

Emergency Authorization

Designees ,

10.

Record Keeping Procedures

7..

39
39

SPECIAL NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

N O T I F I C A T I O N O F I N V E S T I G A T I O N OR P R O S E C U T I O N

N O T I F I C A T I O N OF UNAUTHORIZED I L L E G A L A C T I V I T Y

NOTIFICATION REGARDING CERTAIN FEDERAL J U D I C I A L
PROCEEDINGS

P R I V I L E G E D OR E X C U L P A T O R Y I N F O R M A T I O N

LISTING A CONFIDENTIAL INFORMANT IN AN
iv

VII.

ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE APPLICATION

RESPONDING T O REQUESTS F R O M FPO A T T O R N E Y S
REGARDING A C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCE

EXCEPTIONS T O T H E SPECIAL N O T I F I C A T I O N
REQUIREMENTS

FILE REVIEWS

DESIGNEES

C L O S I N G A C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCE

G E N E R A L PROVISIONS

DELAYED NOTIFICATION TO A CONFIDENTIAL HUMAN
SOURCE

CONTACTS W I T H FORMER CONFIDENTIAL H U M A N
SOURCES C L O S E D FOR CAUSE

C O O R D I N A T I O N W I T H FPO A T T O R N E Y S

I
A.

G E N E R A L PROVISIONS

PURPOSE AND SCOPE
1.

The purpose o f these Guidelines is to set policy for all Department of Justice
(DOJ) personnel regarding the use o f all Confidential Human Sources, as further
defined below, that are operated by the Federal Bureau o f Investigation (FBI) in
any o f the FBI's investigative programs or other authorized information collection
activities.

These Guidelines are issued under the authority o f the Attorney General as
provided in Title 28, United States Code, Sections 509, 510, and 533.

These Guidelines are mandatory and supersede: the Attorney General's Guidelines
Regarding the Use of Confidential Informants (May 30, 2002), to the extent thai
they apply to the FBI; the Attorney General Procedure for Reporting and Use o f
Information Concerning Violations o f Law and Authorization for Participation in
Otherwise Illegal Activity i n FBI Foreign Intelligence, Counterintelligence or
. International Terrorism Intelligence Investigations (August 8, 1988), to the extent
that it applies to assets; and the Attorney General's Guidelines for F B I National
Security Investigations and Foreign Intelligence Collection (October 31,2003)
("NSIG"), to the extent that they are inconsistent with these Guidelines.

These

'However, techniques whose use is authorized for validating assets, as outlined i n the
Attorney General's Guidelines for F B I National Security Investigations and Foreign Intelligence
Collection, to identify potential assets, to collect information to maintain the cover or credibility
o f assets, or to validate assets (including determining suitability or credibility) may continue to be
utilized in relation to Confidential Human Sources in connection with activities related to threats
to the national security.

Guidelines do not supersede otherwise applicable ethical and legal obligations of
Department o f Justice attorneys, which can, in certain circumstances (for example,
with respect to contacts with represented persons), have an impact on FBI
conduct.
These Guidelines apply to the use of a Confidential Human Source in a foreign
country only to the extent that the Confidential Human Source is reasonably likely
to testify in a domestic case.
These Guidelines do not limit the ability of the F B I to impose additional
restrictions on the use o f Confidential Human Sources.
All DOJ personnel have a duty o f candor in the discharge of their responsibilities
pursuant to these Guidelines.
These Guidelines shall be effective 180 days after they are approved by the
Attorney General. However, to the extent provided in FBI policy: (i) activities
commenced under pre-existing guidelines may be continued and completed in
conformity with such pre-existing guidelines, notwithstanding the approval by the
Attorney General and effectiveness of these Guidelines, and (ii) restrictions on the
use o f human sources under pre-existing guidelines which are not perpetuated by
these Guidelines need not be observed following the Attorney General's approval
of these Guidelines, even in relation to activities commenced under pre-existing
guidelines, i f the requirements o f these Guidelines for such activities are satisfied.
To the extent that paragraph III(A)(3)(f) cannot be fully implemented within 180
days, the F B I and the National Security Division will establish a protocol to

govern the review o f sources who would otherwise be subject to that paragraph.
The FBI shall adopt such measures as may be needed to effect an orderly and
expeditious transition to the new Guidelines, without disruption or impediment to
ongoing activities within their scope. The FBI shall keep the Deputy Attorney.
General, the Assistant Attorney General o f the Criminal Division, and the
Assistant Attorney General for National Security informed o f such measures as
directed by the Deputy Attorney General.
B.

DEFINITIONS
1.

"Special Agent in Charge" or " S A C " - the F B I Special Agent in Charge o f an F B I
Field Office (including an Acting Special Agent i n Charge), except that the
functions authorized for Special Agents in Charge by these Guidelines may also
be exercised by the Assistant Director in Charge in an FBI Field Office headed by
an Assistant Director, and by FBI Headquarters officials designated by the
Director o f the FBI.

"Federal Prosecuting Office" or "FPO" - any o f the following Department o f
Justice components:
a.

The United States Attorneys' Offices;

The Criminal Division;

The National Security Division ("NSD");

Any other litigating component o f the Department of Justice with authority
to prosecute federal criminal offenses, including the relevant sections o f

the Antitrust Division, Civil Division, Civil Rights Division,
Environmental and Natural) Resources Division, and the Tax Division.
"Chief Federal Prosecutor" or "CFP" - the head o f an FPO.
"FPO Attorney" - an attorney employed by, or working under the direction of, an
FPO.
"Confidential Human Source Coordinator" - a supervisory FPO Attorney
designated by the CFP to facilitate compliance with these Guidelines.
"FPO participating in the conduct of an investigation" - any FPO employing or
directing an FPO Attorney assigned to a matter whose approval is necessary
pursuant to these Guidelines, or whose approval was sought or obtained regarding
any investigative or prosecutorial matter including the issuance of a search or
arrest warrant, electronic surveillance order, subpoena, indictment or other related
matter.
"Confidential Human Source" - any individual who is believed to be providing
useful and credible information to the FBI for any authorized information
collection activity, and from whom the FBI expects or intends to obtain additional
useful and credible information in the future, and whose identity, information or
relationship with the FBI warrants confidential handling.
"Senior Leadership Source" - a Confidential Human Source who is in a position
to exercise significant decision-making authority over, or to otherwise manage
and direct, the unlawful activities o f the participants in a group or organization,
involved in unlawful activities that are:

nationwide or international in scope; or

deemed to be o f high significance to the FBI's criminal investigative
priorities, even i f the unlawful activities are local or regional in scope.

"High-Level Government or Union Source" - a Confidential Human Source who
is either (a) in relation to the federal government or the government of a state, the
chief executive, the official next in succession to the chief executive, or a member
o f the legislature, or (b) a president, secretary-treasurer or vice president of an
international or national labor union or the principal officer or officers of a
subordinate regional entity of an international or national labor union.

10.

"Tier I Otherwise Illegal Activity" — any activity that:
a.

would constitute a misdemeanor or felony under federal, state, or local law
i f engaged in by a person acting without authorization; and

that involves (i)

the commission, or the significant risk o f the commission, o f any act

of violence by a person or persons other than the Confidential Human
Source;*

Such organizations shall include, but are not limited to: any La Cosa Nostra Family,
Eurasian Organized Crime Group, or Asian Criminal Enterprise which is recognized by F B I
Headquarters; and any domestic or international Terrorist Organization, which is recognized by
F B I Headquarters.
3

The term "regional entity" shall not include a local union or a group of local unions, such
as a district council, combined together for purposes o f conducting collective bargaining with
employers.
*Bookmaking that is significantly associated with, or substantially controlled by, ,
organized crime ordinarily will be within the scope o f this definition. Thus, for example, where
bookmakers have a financial relationship with members or associates of organized crime, and/or
5

(ii)

corrupt conduct, or the significant risk o f corrupt conduct, by an

elected public official or a public official in a high-level decision-making
or sensitive position in federal, state, or local government;
(iii)

the manufacturing, importing, exporting, possession, or trafficking o f

controlled substances in a quantity equal to or exceeding those quantities
specified in United States Sentencing Guidelines § 2D1.1(c)(1);
(iv)

financial loss, or the significant risk o f financial loss, in an amount

equal to or exceeding those amounts specified in United States Sentencing
Guidelines § 2 B i . l ( b X l ) ( I ) ;
(v)

a Confidential Human Source providing to any person (other than an

FBI agent) any item, service, or expertise that is necessary for the
commission o f a federal, state, or local offense, which the person
otherwise would have difficulty obtaining; or
(vi)

a Confidential Human Source providing to any person (other than an

F B I agent) any quantity o f a controlled substance, an explosive, firearm, or

use members or associates o f organized crime to collect their debts, the conduct o f those
bookmakers would create a significant risk o f violence, and would therefore fall within the
definition o f Tier 1 Otherwise Illegal Activity.
The citations to the United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) Manual are to the 2005
Edition. The references herein to particular USSG Sections are intended to remain applicable to
the most closely corresponding USSG level in subsequent editions o f the USSG Manual in the
event that the cited USSG provisions are amended. Thus, it is intended that subsection (iii) o f
this paragraph, will remain applicable to the highest offense level i n the Drug Quantity Table in
future editions o f the USSG Manual, and that subsection (iv) of the paragraph will remain
applicable to dollar amounts that, in future editions o f the USSG Manual, trigger sentencing
enhancements similar to that set forth in the current section 2 B U ( b ) ( l ) ( I ) . Any ambiguities in
this regard should be resolved by the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division.
J

other dangerous weapon, or other item that poses an immediate and
significant threat to public safety, with little or no expectation of its
recovery by the FBI.
11.

"Tier 2 Otherwise Illegal Activity" - any other activity that would constitute a
• misdemeanor or felony under federal, state, or local law i f engaged in by a person
acting without authorization.

12.

"Fugitive" - an individual:
a.

for whom a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency has placed a
wanted record in the FBI's National Crime Information Center (other than
for a traffic or petty ofTense); or

for whom a federal warrant has been issued; and

for whom the law enforcement agency is willing, i f necessary, to seek his
or her extradition to its jurisdiction.

13.

"Human Source Review Committee" or "HSRC" - A committee convened
pursuant to these Guidelines to review various matters under these Guidelines as
set forth below in paragraph HI ( A ) .

14.

"National Security Investigation" - A national security investigation as defined in
Pari VHI.Q o f NSIG.

15.

"International Terrorism Investigation" - A J I investigation relating to international
terrorism, whether conducted under NSIG, under the Attorney General's
Guidelines on General Crimes, Racketeering Enterprise and Terrorism Enterprise

Investigations (May 30, 2002), or under other guidelines issued by the Attorney
General.
C.

P R O H I B I T I O N ON C O M M I T M E N T S OF I M M U N I T Y BY T H E FBI
The FBI does not have any authority to make any promise or commitment that would
prevent the government from prosecuting a Confidential Human Source for criminal
activity that is not authorized pursuant to Section V below or that would limit the use o f
any evidence by the government, without the prior written approval o f the FPO that has
primary jurisdiction to prosecute the Confidential Human Source for such criminal
activity. A n FBI Agent must exercise due diligence to avoid givingany person the
erroneous impression that he or she has any such authority.

MAINTAINING CONFIDENTIALITY
1.

Obligation
DOJ Personnel have an obligation to maintain as confidential the identity o f any
Confidential Human Source. Consistent with that obligation, DOJ personnel shall
not disclose the identity of a Confidential Human Source or information that
Source has provided that would have a tendency to identify the Source unless
disclosure is appropriate under one o f the exceptions referenced below in
paragraph D (4).

Security of Material
I f the F B I provides DOJ personnel with any material containing:
a.

the identity o f a Confidential Human Source;

information that may possibly identify the Source; or

information that the Source has provided;

such material must be secured in a manner consistent with its security markings or
classifications, when not in the direct care and custody o f DOJ personnel.
Continuing Obligation
DOJ personnel have a continuing obligation after leaving employment with the
Department o f Justice to maintain as confidential the identity o f any Confidential
Human Source and the information that Source provided, unless disclosure is
appropriate under one o f the exceptions referenced below in paragraph D (4).
Exceptions
a.

Notwithstanding paragraph I (D) ( I ) , DOJ personnel may make
appropriate disclosures;
i.

to F B I Agents who need to know the identity o f the Source in order
to perform their official duties. However, an FPO must coordinate
w i t h the FBI Agent directing the Source to obtain the required
approval o f the FBI-SAC or his or her designee prior to such
disclosure;

ii.

to other law enforcement, intelligence, immigration, diplomatic,
and military officials who need to know the identity to perform
their official duties, subject to the prior approval o f the FBI-SAC
or his or her designee; .

iii.

when the Confidential Human Source has agreed to testify in a
grand jury orjudicial proceeding.

A l l DOJ personnel must disclose the identity o f a Confidential Human
Source, and the information that Source has provided, when required by
court order, law, regulation, these Guidelines or other Department of
Justice policies.

Disclosures to Confidential Human Sources
DOJ personnel must exercise due diligence to avoid disclosing any confidential
investigative information to a Confidential Human Source ( e j ^ information
relating to electronic surveillance, search warrants, indictments and other charging
documents, or the identity o f other actual or potential informants), other than what
is necessary and appropriate for operational reasons.

EXCEPTIONS AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION
1.

Whenever an FBI SAC, a CFP, or the designee o f an FBI SAC or CFP, believes
that extraordinary circumstances exist that warrant an exception to any provision
o f these Guidelines, or whenever there is a dispute between or among entities
(other than a dispute with the Assistant Attorney General (AAGJ o f either the
Criminal Division or National Security Division of the Department of Justice),
regarding these Guidelines, an exception must be sought from, or the dispute shall
be resolved by, the A A G for the Criminal Division or the National Security
Division (whichever is appropriate) or his or her designee.

Whenever there is a dispute with (he A A G for either the Criminal Division or
National Security Division o f the Department o f Justice, such dispute shall be
resolved by the Deputy Attorney General or his or her designee.

The Deputy Attorney GeneraJ, or his or her designee, shall hear appeals, i f any,
from decisions o f the Assistant Attorneys General of the Criminal Division and
the National Security Division.

Any exception granted or dispute resolved pursuant to this paragraph.shall be
documented in the FBI's files.

RIGHTS OF T H I R D PARTIES
Nothing in these Guidelines is intended to create or does create an enforceable legal right
or private right o f action by a Confidential Human Source or any other person.
COMPLIANCE
1.

Within 60 days o f the approval o f these Guidelines by the Attorney General, the
FBI shall submit an implementation plan to the respective Assistant Attorneys
General for the Criminal Division and the National Security Division o f the
Department o f Justice for review. The plan must address all the requirements
imposed upon the F B I by these Guidelines.

Within 60 days o f the approval of these Guidelines, the F B I i n conjunction with
the Criminal Division of the Department o f Justice, shall establish a Human
Source Review Committee to perform the functions set forth in Section H I (A)
below.

Within 60 days o f the approval o f these Guidelines, each FPO shall designate one
or more supervisory FPO Attorneys to serve as "Confidential Human Source
Coordinators," whose duties shall include:
a."

coordinating the responsibilities ofthe FPO underthese Guidelines;

serving as a point of contact fqr the FEU for all matters pursuant to these
Guidelines; and

approving matters pursuant to these Guidelines on behalf of the FPO when
no other FPO Attorney has been assigned or when the assigned FPO
Attorney is unavailable.

Each CFP and FBI-SAC.shall implement comprehensive periodic training of its
respective personnel regarding these Guidelines.

Each CFP shall coordinate with the appropriate FBI SAC to develop procedures to
maximize the accessibility and availability o f the FPO's Confidential Human
Source Coordinators.
II.

INITIAL
1.

V A L I D A T I O N OF A C O N F I D E N T I A L

H U M A N SOURCE

VALIDATION

Genera!
A i l F B I Confidential Human Sources must be subjected to the validation process
as provided in these Guidelines and other FBI policies.

Time L i m i t s
The FBI, in consultation with the Assistant Attorneys General of the Criminal
Division and the National Security Division of the Department of Justice, shall
establish reasonable time limits for subjecting a Source to the Initial Validation
process that are compatible with these Guidelines and other FBI policies.

Required Informatioti
In opening a Confidential Human Source, an FBI Agent shall document
information pertaining to that Source and forward it to an appropriate FBI
Supervisor for an Initial Validation. At a minimum, an FBI Agent shall provide
the following information to facilitate the Initial Validation process:
a.

basic identifying information that establishes the person's true identity, or
the FBI's efforts to establish the'individual's true identity;

a photograph of the person (when possible);

whether the person has a criminal history, is reasonably believed to be the
subject or target of a pending criminal investigation, is under arrest, or has
been charged in a pending prosecution;

the person's motivation for providing information or assistance, including
any consideration sought from the government for this assistance;

any promises or benefits, and the terms o f such promises or benefits, that
are given a Confidential Human Source by the FBI, FPO or any other law
enforcement agency (if known, after exercising reasonable efforts^; and

any other information that is required to be documented in the
Confidential Human Source's file pursuant to these Guidelines and FBI
policies, including but not limited to, the instructions provided to the
Confidential Human Source.

INSTRUCTIONS
I.

In opening a Confidential Human Source, at least one FBI Agent, along with one
additional Agent or other government official present as a witness, shall review
with the Confidential Human Source instructions as required by these Guidelines
and other FBI policies. At a iruiumum, these instructions must indicate that:
a.

information provided by the Confidential Human Source to the FBI must
be truthful;

the Confidential Human Source's assistance and the information provided
are entirely voluntary;

the United States Government w i l l strive to protect the Confidential
Human Source's identity but cannot guarantee that it will not be divulged;

the Confidential Human Source must abide by the instructions o f the F B I '
and must not take or seek to take any independent action on behalf o f the
United States Government

The following additional instructions shall also be reviewed with a Confidential
Human Source i f applicable to the particular circumstances o f the Confidential
Human Source:.
a.

The FBI on its own cannot promise or agree to any immunity from
prosecution or other consideration by a FPO,.a state or local prosecutor, or
a Court in exchange for the Confidential Human Source's cooperation,
because the decision to confer any such benefit lies within the exclusive
discretion of the FPO and the Court. However, the FBI will consider (but

not necessarily act upon) a request by the Confidential Human Source to
advise the appropriate FPO, the state or local prosecutor, or Court of the
nature and extent of his or her assistance to the F B I ;
b.

The Confidential Human Source has not been authorized to engage in any
criminal activity and has no immunity from prosecution for any
unauthorized criminal activity;

The Confidential Human Source is not an employee o f the United States
Government and may not represent himself or herself as such;' •

The Confidential. Human Source may not enter into any contract or incur
any obligation on behalf o f the United States Government, except as
specifically instructed and approved by the F B I ;

The F B I cannot guarantee any rewards, payments, or other compensation
to the Confidential Human Source;

This instruction should be provided i f there is any apparent issue o f criminal liability or
penalties that relates to the Confidential Human Source.
6

This instruction should be provided to any Confidential Human Source who is not
authorized to engage i n otherwise illegal activity. See paragraph V (B)(3) for instructions that
must be provided to a Confidential Human Source who is, in fact, authorized to engage in
otherwise illegal conduct.
7

'This instruction should be provided to all Confidential Human Sources except under
those circumstances where the Source has previously been, and continues to be, otherwise
employed by the United States Government.
*This instruction should be provided to all Confidential Human sources except under
those circumstances where the Source is otherwise authorized to enter a contract or incur an
obligation on the behalf of the United States.
15

In the event that the Confidential Human Source receives any rewards,
payments, or other compensation from the FBI, the Source is liable for any
taxes that may be owed; and

No promises or commitments can be made, except by the United States
Department of Homeland Security, regarding the alien status of any person
or the right o f any person (o enter or remain in the United States.'

The content and meaning o f each o f the foregoing instructions must be clearly
conveyed to the Confidential Human Source. Immediately after these instructions
have been given, the FBI Agent shall require the Confidential Human Source to
acknowledge his or her receipt and understanding o f the instructions. The FBI
Agent, and the additional Agent or other government official present as a witness,
shall document that the instructions were reviewed with the Confidential Human
Source and that the Source acknowledged the instructions and his or her
understanding o f them. As soon as practicable thereafter, an FBI Supervisor shall •,
review and, i f warranted, approve the documentation.

The instruction and documentation procedures shall be repeated to the
Confidential Human Source whenever it appears necessary or prudent to do so,
and, in any event, at least annually.

This instruction should be provided i f there is any apparent issue of immigration status
that relates to the Confidential Human Source.
10

ANNUAL VALIDATION REVIEW
1.

Each Confidential Human Source's file shall be reviewed at least annually
consistent with these Guidelines and other FBI policies.

The FBI shall establish procedures to ensure that all available information that
might materially alter a prior validation assessment, including, but not limited to,
bformation pertaining to unauthorized illegal activity by the Confidential Human
Source, is promptly reported to an FBI Supervisor and then recorded and
maintained in the file o f the Confidential Human Source.

III.

SPECIAL APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

D E F I N E D C A T E G O R I E S O F SOURCES
1.

Required Early Approval
Within 60 days o f utilizing a Confidential Human Source who meets any of the
following definitions, the FBI must seek written approval, in accordance with the
relevant provisions set forth in paragraph I I I (A)(3) below, for the continued use
o f the Source unless an FPO Attorney has existing oversight o f a Source because
the Source has agreed to testify in a federal criminal prosecution:
a.

"Senior Leadership Source" - a Confidential Human Source as defined in
paragraph I (B)(8), above;

"Privileged or Media Source" -- A Confidential Human Source who is
under the obligation o f a legal privilege o f confidentiality or affiliated with
the media;

"High-Level Govemmenl or Union Source" - A Confidential Human
Source as defined in paragraph F (B)(9), above.

Long-Term Sources
When a Confidential Human Source has been registered for more than five
consecutive years, and to the extent such a Source remains open, every five years
thereafter, the FBI must seek written approval, in accordance with the relevant
provisions set forth in paragraph IK (A)(3) below, for the continued use o f (he
Source.
Approval Process
AH F B I requests seeking approval for the continued use of a Confidential Human
Source who meets any o f the definitions set forth in paragraphs UJ (A)(1) & (2)
above, except those Sources providing information for use in an international
terrorism investigation, national security investigation, or other activity under
NSIG, shall be reviewed and determined by a Human Source Review Committee
(HSRC).
a.

Composition of the HSRC - - At least one HSRC shall be established by
the F B I and the Criminal Division o f the Department o f Justice. The
Chairperson o f each HSRC shall be an FBI Agent at or above the level of
Deputy Assistant Director (or its equivalent). The membership of each
HSRC shall include: two FBI Agents, and two attorneys from (he FBI's
Office of General Counsel, as designated by the Chairperson; and five
FPO Attorneys designated by the A A G for the Criminal Division. One o f

the five FPO Attorneys shall be a Deputy A A G from the Criminal
Division, and at least two o f the remaining FPO Attorneys shall each be
from a U.S. Attorney's Office and have relevant experience in organized
crime matters. In addition, an FPO Attorney designated by the Assistant
Attorney General for National Security shall be a member o f the HSRC,
but shall not be considered to be a voting member for purposes of
determining whether continued use o f a Source under review should be
approved.
Acctss

to F B I Information - - During the approval process, the HSRC

shall have access to all relevant FBI information pertaining to the use o f
the Confidential Human Source under consideration, including any Annual
Validation Reports. However, the identity o f the Confidential Human
Source w i l l not be disclosed to the HSRC unless the Chairperson o f the
HSRC determines that compelling reasons exist to warrant such a
disclosure.
Time Limit - - The HSRC approval process shall be completed no more

than 45 days after the FBI has submitted a request seeking approval for the
continued use o f a Confidential Human Source. While the request is
pending w i t h the HSRC, the FBI shall be permitted to continue to utilize
the Confidential Human Source.

Notice to FPO - - After a final decision has been made by the HSRC, the
HSRC shall consider whether to provide notice o f the decision to any
appropriate FPO.
Disputes - - The HSRC shall recommend approval of the continued use of
a Source only upon reaching a consensus, provided that wheuever the FBI,
an FPO, or a HSRC Member disagrees with the final decision o f the
HSRC, it may seek review and reconsideration o f that decision pursuant to
the Exceptions and Dispute Resolution section, paragraph I (E) above.
While the dispute is pending resolution, the FBI shall be permitted to
continue to utilize the Confidential Human Source.
Sources Providing Information for Use in International Terrorism
Investigations, National Security Investigations, or Other Activities under
NSIG - - No Confidential Human Source who is providing information
for use in international terrorism investigations, national security
investigations, or other activities under NSIG shall be referred to the
HSRC for review. Instead, the FBI shall provide notice to the National
Security Division within 60 days of FBI Headquarters' approval o f the
continued use o f any such Confidential Human Source who is subject to
the enhanced review provisions o f the FBI's Confidential Human Source
Validation Standards Manual. Confidential Human Sources who meet any
o f the definitions set forth in paragraphs 111(A)(1) & (2) shall be subject to
enhanced review. The Assistant Attorney General for National Security

shall designate FPO Attorneys to review the notices and associated
information pursuant to the following process:
i,

Upon request by the designated FPO Attorney, the FBI shall make
available at FBI Headquarters to the designated FPO Attorney
Validation Reports regarding the Confidential Human Source, I f
the Validation Reports do not permit the FPO Attorney to conduct
a meaningful analysis o f the propriety o f continuing to use the
Confidential Human Source, the FPO Attorney may ask for
additional, information regarding the Confidential Human Source.
The identity o f the Confidential Human Source shall not be
disclosed to the designated FPO Attorney unless the Assistant
Director or a Deputy Assistant Director o f the Division that is
utilizing the Confidential HumaitSource determines that
compelling reasons exist to warrant such a disclosure. With the
exception o f a request for the identity o f the Confidential Human
Source, all requests by the FPO Attorney for further information
pertaining to a Confidential Human Source shall be satisfied within
a reasonable period o f time. Failure to provide such .information
may be grounds for the National Security Division to recommend
that the Deputy Attorney General disapprove continued use o f the
Confidential Human Source,

IftheDirectoroftheFBIandthe

Assistant Attorney General for National Security do not agree

whether information sought is reasonably necessary in order for the
FPO Attorney to conduct a meaningful analysis o f the propriety of
continuing to use the Confidential Human Source, any such dispute
shall be resolved by the Deputy Attorney General.
The designated FPO Attorney may consult with other designated
FPO Attorneys and with the Assistant Attorney General for
National Security concerning the continued use o f the Confidential
Human Source. I f the Assistant Attorney General for National
Security does not object to the FBI's continued use o f the
Confidential Human Source, no further action shall be taken. I f the
Assistant Attorney General for National Security objects to the
FBI's continued use o f the Confidential Human Source, the
Assistant Attorney General shall forward a recommendation to the
Deputy Attorney General that continued use of the Confidential
Human Source be disapproved. While the dispute is pending
resolution before the Deputy Attorney General, the F B I shall be
permitted to continue to utilize the Confidential Human Source.

F E D E R A L PRISONERS, PROBATIONERS, P A R O L E E S , A N D SUPERVISED
RELEASEES
1.

Consistent with extant Department of Justice requirements, the FBI must receive
the approval of the Criminal Division's Office of Enforcement Operations
("OEO") prior to utilizing as a Confidential Human Source an individual who is in
the custody of'the United States Marshals Service or the Bureau o f Prisons, or
who is under Bureau o f Prisons supervision. gee. U.S.A.M. § 9-21.050. •

Prior to utilizingafederalprobationer, parolee, or supervised releasee as a
Confidential Human Source, an FBI Supervisor shall determine whether the use o f
that person in such a capacity would violate the terms and conditions o f the
person's probation, parole, or supervised release. I f the FBI Supervisor has reason
to believe that it would violate such terms and conditions, prior to using the
person as a Confidential Human Source, the F B I Supervisor or his or her designee
must obtain the permission of a federal probation, parole, or supervised release
official with authority to grant such permission, which permission shall be
documented in the Confidential Human Source's files. I f such permission is
denied or it is inappropriate for operational reasons to contact the appropriate
federal official, the FBI may seek to obtain authorization for the use o f such
individual as a Confidential Human Source from the Court then responsible for
the individual's probation, parole, or supervised release, provided that the F B I
first consults with the FPO for that District.

I f an FPO is participating in the conduct of an investigation by the F B I in which a
federal probationer, parolee, or supervised releasee would be utilized as a

Confidential Human Source or would be working with a federal probationer,
parolee, or supervised releasee in connection with a prosecution, the FBI shall
notify the FPO Attorney assigned to the current matter prior to using the person as
a Confidential Human Source.
C U R R E N T OR F O R M E R P A R T I C I P A N T S I N T H E W I T N E S S S E C U R I T Y
PROGRAM
I.

Consistent with extant Department o f Justice requirements, the F B I must receive
the approval of OEO and the sponsoring FPO Attorney (or his or her successor)
prior to utilizing as a Confidential Human Source a current or former participant
in the Federal Witness Security Program, provided further that the OEO will
coordinate such matters with the United States Marshals Service.

U.S.A.M. §

9-21.800.
2.

I f an FPO is participating in the conduct o f an investigation by the FBI in which a
current or former participant in the Witness Security Program would be utilized as
a Confidential Human Source or would be working with a current or former
participant in the Witness Security Program in connection with a prosecution, the
FBI shall notify the FPO Attorney assigned to the matter prior to using the person'
as a Confidential Human Source.

S T A T E O R L O C A L PRISONERS, P R O B A T I O N E R S , P A R O L E E S , O R
SUPERVISED RELEASEES
I.

Prior to utilizing a state or local prisoner, probationer, parolee, or supervised
releasee as a Confidential Human Source, an FBI Supervisor shall determine
whether (be use o f that person in such a capacity would violate the terms and

conditions o f the person's incarceration, probation, parole, or supervised release.
I f the FBI Supervisor has reason to believe that it would violate such terms and
conditions, prior to using the person as a Confidential Human Source, an FBI
Supervisor or his or her designee must obtain the permission of a state or local
prison, probation, parole, or supervised release official with authority to grant
such permission, which permission shall be documented in the Confidential
Human Source's Mies. I f such permission is^enied or it is inappropriate for
operational reasons to contact the appropriate state or local official, the FBI may
seek to obtain authorization for the use o f such person as a Source from the state
or local court then responsible for the person's incarceration, probation, parole, or
supervised release.
2.

I f an FPO is participating in the conduct o f an investigation by the FBI in which a
state or local prisoner, probationer, parolee, or supervised releasee would be
utilized as a Confidential Human Source or would be working with a state or local
prisoner, probationer, parolee, or supervised releasee in connection with a
prosecution, the FBI shall notify the FPO Attorney assigned to the matter prior to
using the person as a.Confidential Human Source.

FUGITIVES
1.

Except as provided below, an FBI Agent shall not initiate communication with a
current or former Confidential Human Source who is a fugitive.

A n FBI Agent is permitted to communicate with a current or former Confidential
Human Source who is a fugitive:

i f the fugitive Source initiates the coramunicatjon;

i f the communication is part of a legitimate effort by the F B I to arrest the
fugitive; or

if approved, in advance whenever possible, by a Supervisor o f any federal,
state, or local law enforcement agency that has a wanted record for the
individual in the NCIC and, in the case o f a federal warrant, by the FPO
for the issuing District.

A n FBI Agent who communicates with a Confidential Human Source who is a
fugitive must promptly report such communication to the appropriate federal, state
or local law enforcement agency, and any other law enforcement agency having a
wanted record for the individual in the NCIC, and must document those
communicadons in the Confidential Human Source's files.

IV,

R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S RKGARDFNG
C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCES

NO INTERFERENCE W I T H A N I N V E S T I G A T I O N OF A C O N F I D E N T I A L
H U M A N SOURCE
DOJ personnel shall not interfere with or impede any criminal investigation or arrest of a
Confidential Human Source. DOJ personnel shall not reveal to a Confidential Human
Source any information relating to an investigation o f the Source, including corifirming or
denying the existence o f such an investigation, unless authorized to do so by the Chief
Federal Prosecutor or his or her designee, after consultation with the appropriate FBI
SAC or his or her designee.

PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS
1.

DOJ personnel directing or overseeing the direction o f a Confidential Human
Source shall not:
a.

exchange gifts with a Confidential Human Source;

provide the Confidential Human Source w i m anything o f more than
nominal value;

receive anything o f more than nominal value from a Confidential Human
Source; or

engage in any business or financial transactions w i t h a Confidential
Human Source,

Unless authorized pursuant to paragraph I V (B)(3) below, any exception to this
provision requires the written approval o f an FBI Supervisor, in advance
whenever possible, based on a finding by the F B I Supervisor that the event or
transaction in question is necessary and appropriate for operational reasons. This
written finding shall be maintained in the Confidential Human Source's files.

DOJ personnel directing or overseeing the direction o f a Confidential Human
Source shall not socialize with that Source, except to the extent necessary and
appropriate for operational reasons.

I f an FPO is participating i n the eonduct of an investigation that is utilizing an FBI
Confidential Human Source or working with a Confidential Human Source in
connection with a prosecution, the FBI shall provide written notification to the
FPO Attorney assigned to the matter, in advance whenever possible, i f the FBI

approves an exception under paragraph IV (B) or i f an FBI Agent socializes with a
Confidential Human Source in a manner not permitted under paragraph IV(B)(2)
&(3).
MONETARY PAYMENTS
1.

General
Monies that the FBI pays to a Confidential Human Source in the form o f fees and
rewards shall be commensurate with the value, as determined by the FBI, o f the
information or assistance the Source provided to the FBI. The FBI's
reimbursement Of expenses incurredby a Confidential Human Source shall be
based upon actual expenses incurred, except that relocation expenses may be
made based on an estimate of the expenses.

Prohibition Against Contingent Payments
Under no circumstances shall any payments to a Confidential Human Source be
contingent upon the conviction or punishment o f any individual.

Approval for Payments
The F B I shall establish a written delegation o f authority for approval o f payments
to Confidential Human Sources. The delegation o f authority shall establish the
level of approval required when single payments, aggregate annual payments, and
total aggregate payments meet or exceed specific threshold amounts. The
threshold amounts and approval authority are subject to periodic review and
amendment as deemed appropriate hy the FBI Director.

Documentation of Payment
The payment of any FBI funds to a Confidential Human Source shall be witnessed
by at least one FBI Agent and another government official. In the event of
extraordinary circumstances that must be documented in the Source's file, only
one witness shall be required. Immediately after receiving a payment, the
Confidential Human Source shall be required to sign or initial, and date, a written
receipt." At the time of the payment, the FBI Agent or other government official
shall advise the Confidential Human Source that the monies may be taxable
income that must be reported to appropriate tax authorities. Thereafter, the FBI
shall document the payment and the advice o f taxability in the FBI's files. The
documentation of payment shall specify whether the payment is for services or
expenses.

Accounting and Reconciliation Procedures
The FBI shall establish accounting and reconciliation procedures to comply with
these Guidelines. The FBI procedures shall ensure that the FBI accounts for all
funds paid to a Confidential Human Source subsequent to the issuance of these
Guidelines.

Coordination with Prosecution
I f an FPO Attorney is participating in the conduct of an investigation or
prosecution that is utilizing an FBI Confidential Human Source who is expected.

" The Confidential Human Source may sign or initial the written receipt by using a
pseudonym which has been previously approved and documented in the Source's files and
designated for use by only one Confidential Human Source.
29

to testify, the FBI shall coordinate with the FPO attorney, in advance i f
practicable, any payment of monies to the Confidential Human Source pursuant
to paragraph fV(C)(3) above. I f the payment is to be made for services and i f the
FPO Attorney objects to the payment, no payment will be made until the dispute
has been resolved in accordance with Section I. E. above.

V.
A.

A U T H O R I Z A T I O N OF OTHERWISE I L L E G A L

ACTIVITY

G E N E R A L PROVISIONS
1.

The FBI shall not authorize a Confidential Human Source to engage in any
activity that otherwise would constitute a criminal violation under federal, state,
or local law i f engaged in by a person acting without authorization, except as
provided in the authorization provisions in paragraph V(B) below.

The F B I is.never permitted to authorize a Confidential Human Source to:
a,

participate in any act o f violence except in self-defense;' or

participate in an act designed to obtain information for the FBI that would

be unlawful i f conducted by a law enforcement agent ( e ^ breaking and
entering, illegal wiretapping, illegal opening or tampering with the mail, or
trespass amounting to an illegal search).
B.

A U T H O R I Z A T I O N PROCEDURES
I.

W r i t t e n Authorization

The Source may take reasonable measures o f self-defense in an emergency to protect his
or her own life or the lives o f others against wrongful force.
l2

Tier 1 Otherwise Illegal Activity must be authorized by an FBI SAC and
the appropriate CFP, in advance and in writing for a specified period, not
to exceed 90 daya, except that, with respect to all international terrorism
investigations, national security investigations, or other activities under
NSIG, upon request of the FBI and at the discretion of die appropriate
CFP, the Otherwise Illegal Activity may he authorized for a period o f up to
one year.
Tier 2 Otherwise Illegal Activity must be authorized by an F B I SAC in
advance and in writing for a specified period, not to exceed 90 days.
The written authorization by the FBI SAC andVor CFP o f Otherwise Illegal
Activity shall be as narrow as reasonable under the circumstance? as to the
unlawful activity's scope, geographic area, duration and other related
matters.
For purposes o f this paragraph, except with respect to all international
terrorism investigations, national security investigations, or other activities
under NSIG, the "appropriate Chief Federal Prosecutor" is the CFP that:
i.

is participating in the conduct o f an investigation by the FBI that is
utilizing the Confidential Human Source or is working with the
Confidential Human Source in connection with a prosecution;

ii.

would have primary jurisdiction to prosecute the Otherwise Illegal
Activity that would constitute a violation o f federal law; or

iii.

is located where the Otherwise Illegal Activity is to occur, and it
only constitutes a violation o f state or local law.

With respect to all international terrorism investigations, national security
investigations, or other activities under NSIG, the appropriate Chief
Federal Prosecutor is the A A G o f the NSD, or designee. Within 60 days
after these Guidelines are approved by the Attorney General, the A A G o f
the NSD shall identify designees for purposes of this paragraph, which
may include DOJ personnel outside the NSD.

Findings
a.

The F B I SAC and the CFP who authorize the Otherwise Illegal Activity
must make a finding, which shall be documented in the Confidential
Human Source's files, that the illegal activity is:
i.

necessary either to A.

obtain information or evidence essential for the success o f
an investigation that is not reasonably available without
such activity, including circumstances in which the
Confidential Human Source must engage in the illegal
activity in order to maintain his credibility and thereby
obtain the information or evidence, or

prevent death, serious bodily injury, or significant damage
to property; and

ii.

that the benefits to be obtained from the Confidential Human
Source's participation in the Otherwise Illegal Activity outweigh
the risks.

in making these findings, the FBI SAC and the CFP shall consider, among
other things;
i.

the importance of the investigation;

ii.

the likelihood that the information or evidence sought w i l l be
obtained;

iii.

the risk that the Confidential Human Source might misunderstand
or exceed the scope o f his authorization;

iv.

the extent of the Confidential Human Source's participation in the
Otherwise Illegal Activity;

the risk that the F B I will not be able to closely monitor the
Confidential Human Source's participation in the Otherwise Illegal
Activity;

vi.

the risk o f violence, physical injury, property damage, or financial
loss to the Cbnfidential Human Source or others; and

vii.

the risk that the FBI will not be able to ensure that the Confidential
Human Source does not realize undue profits from his or her
participation i n the Otherwise Illegal Activity.

Instructions
a.

U a Confidential Human Source is authorized to engage in Otherwise
DIegal Activity, at least one FBI Agent, along with one additional
government official present as a witness, shall review with the
Confidential Human Source written instructions that:
i.

the Confidential Human Source is authorized only to engage in the
specific conduct set forth in the written authorization and not in
any other illegal activity (the Chief Federal Prosecutor's written
authorization should be read to the Confidential Human Source
unless it is not feasible);

ii.

the Confidential Human Source's authorization is limited to the
time period specified in the written authorization;

iii.

under no circumstance may the Confidential Human Source;
A.

participate in an act o f violence (except in self-defense);

participate in an act designed to obtain information for the
FBI that would be unlawful i f conducted by a law
enforcement agent (s^g., breaking and entering, illegal
wiretapping, illegal opening or tampering with the mail, or
trespass amounting to an illegal search);

I f applicable: participate in an act that constitutes
obstruction o f justice (e.g.. perjury, witness tampering,

witness intimidation, entrapment, or the fabrication,
alteration, or destruction o f evidence);
D.

I f applicable: initiate or instigate a plan or strategy to
commit a federal, state, or local offense;

iv.

i f the Confidential Human Source is asked by any person to
participate in any illegal activity other than the specific conduct set
forth in the written authorization, or learns o f plans to engage in
such illegal activity, the Source must immediately report the matter
to the FBI Case Agent; and

participation in any illegal activity other than the specific conduct
set forth in the written authorization could subject the Confidential
Human Source to criminal prosecution.

Immediately after these instructions have been given, the Confidential
Human Source shall be required to sign or initial, and date, a written
acknowledgment o f the instructions.

I f the Confidential Human Source

refuses to sign or initial the written acknowledgment, the FBI Agent, and
the additional Agent or other government official present as a witness,
shall document that the instructions were reviewed with the Confidential
Human Source and that the Source acknowledged the instructions and his

The Confidential Human Source may sign or initial the written acknowledgment by
using a pseudonym which has been previously approved and documented in the Confidential
Human Source's files and designated for use by only one Confidential Human Source.
11

or her understanding of them. As soon as practicable thereafter, an FBI
Supervisor shall review and, i f warranted, approve the documentation.
4.

Precautionary Measures
Whenever the FBI has authorized a ConfidentiaJ Human Source to engage in
Otherwise Illegal Activity, the FBI must take all reasonable steps to:
a.

monitor closely the activities o f the Confidential Human Source;

minimize the adverse effect o f the Otherwise Illegal Activity on innocent
persons; and

ensure that the Confidential Human Source does not realize undue profits
from his or her participation in the Otherwise Illegal Activity.

Suspension o f Authorization

Whenever the F B I cannot, for legitimate reasons unrelated to the Confidential Human
Source's conduct (e.g.. unavailability of the Case Agent), comply with the precautionary
measures described above, it shall immediately:
a.

suspend the Confidential Human Source's authorization to engage in
Otherwise Illegal Activity until such time as the precautionary measures
can be complied with;

inform the Confidential Human Source that his or her authorization to
engage in any Otherwise Illegal Activity has been suspended until that
time; and

c.
6.

document these actions in the Confidential Human Source's files.

Revocation of Authorization

I f an F B I Agent has reason to believe that a Confidential Human Source
has failed to comply with the terms of the authorization o f Otherwise
Illegal Activity, the FBI Agent shall immediately;
i.

revoke the Confidential Human Source's authorization to engage in
Otherwise Illegal Activity;

ii.

inform the Confidential Human Source that he or she is no longer
authorized to engage in any Otherwise Illegal Activity;

iii.

comply with the notification requirement o f paragraph V I (B)
below;

iv.

determine whether the Confidential Human Source should be
closed pursuant to Section VD; and

v.
b.

document these actions in the Confidential Human Source's files,

Immediately after the Confidential Human Source bas been informed that
he or she is no longer authorized to engage in any Otherwise Illegal
Activity, the Confidential Hum an Source should sign or initial, and date, a
written acknowledgment that he or she has been informed o f this fact.

the Confidential Human Source refuses to sign or initial the written
acknowledgment, the FBI Agent who informed the Confidential Human
Source o f the revocation of authorization shall document the refusal, and
the source's oral acknowledgment o f the information i f such oral

The Confidential Human Source may sign or initial the written acknowledgment by
using a pseudonym which has been previously approved arid documented in the Confidential
Human Source's files and designated for use by only one Confidential Human Source.
H

acknowledgment is provided. As soon as practicable thereafter, an FBI
Supervisor shall review the written acknowledgment or documentation o f
refusal.
Renewal and Expansion of Authorization
a.

I f the FBI seeks to re-authorize any Confidential Human Source to engage
in Otherwise Illegal Activity after the expiration of the authorized time
period, or after revocation of authorization, the F B I must first comply with
the procedures set forth above in paragraphs V(B)(l)-(3).

If the FBI seeks to expand in any material way a Confidential Human
Source's authorization to engage in Otherwise Illegal Activity, the FBI
must first comply with the procedures set forth above in paragraphs V
(B)(1M3).

Emergency Authorization
a.

In exceptional circumstances, an FBI SAC and the appropriate CFP may
' orally authorize a Confidential Human Source to engage in Tier 1
Otherwise Illegal Activity without complying with the •documentation
requirements o f paragraphs V (B)(l)-(3) above, when they each delermine
that a highly significant and unanticipated investigative opportunity would
be lost-were the time taken to comply with these documentation
requirements,"and that the circumstances support a finding required
pursuant lo paragraph V (B)(2). In such an event, the documentation
requirements, as well as a written justification for the oral authorization,

shall be completed within 72 hours or as soon as practicable following the
oral approval and maintained in the Confidential Human Source's files,
b.

In extraordinary circumstances, an FBI SAC may orally authorize a
Confidential Human Source to engage in Tier 2 Otherwise Illegal Activity
without complying with the documentation requirements o f paragraphs
- V(B)(1 )-(3) above when he or she determines that a highly significant and
unanticipated investigative opportunity would be lost were the time taken
to comply with these requirements. In such an event, the documentation
requirements, as well as a written justification for the oral authorization,
shall be completed within 72 hours or as soon as practicable following the
oral approval and maintained in the Confidential Human Source's files.

Designees
The FBI SAC and the CFP may agree to. designate particular individuals at the
supervisory level in their respective offices to carry out the approval functions
assigned to them in Section V.

10.

Record Keeping Procedures
a.

The FBI shall maintain a file for each Confidential Human Source
containing all the written authorizations, findings and instructions
. regarding Tier 1 Otherwise Illegal Activity, as required under Section
V(B) o f these Guidelines.

A t the end o f each calendar year, the FBI shall.report to the Assistant
Attorneys General o f the Criminal Division and the National Security

39-

Division the total number o f times each FBI Field Office authorized a
Confidential Human Source to engage in Otherwise DIegal Activity, and
the overall nationwide totals,
c.

I f requested, the FBI shall provide to the Assistant Attorneys General o f
the Criminal Division and the National Security Division a copy of any
written authorization, finding or instruction issued pursuant to Section
V(B) of these Guidelines.

VI.

S P E C I A L N QTTFrC A T I O N R E Q U I R E M E N T S

N O T I F I C A T I O N O F I N V E S T I G A T I O N OR P R O S E C U T I O N
1.

I f an FBI Agent has reasonable grounds to believe that the alleged felonious
activity of a current or former Confidential Human Source is, or is expected to
become, the basis o f a prosecution or investigation by an FPO or a state or local
prosecutor's office, the FBI Agent must immediately notify a Confidential Human
Source Coordinator or the assigned FPO Attorney o f that individual's status as a
current or former Confidential Human Source. However, with respect to a former
Confidential Human Source whose alleged felonious activity is, or is expected to
become, the basis o f a prosecution or investigation by a state or local prosecutor's
office, no notification obligation shall arise unless the FBI Agent has reasonable
grounds to believe that the Confidential Human Source's prior relationship with
the FBI is material to the prosecution or investigation.

Whenever such a notification occurs, the Confidential Human Source Coordinator
or the assigned FPO Attorney shall notify the CFP. The CFP and FBI SAC, with
the concurrence o f each other, shall notify any other federal, state or local
prosecutor's office or law enforcement agency that is participating in the
investigation or prosecution o f the Confidential Human Source.

NOTIFICATION OF UNAUTHORIZED I L L E G A L A C T I V I T Y
1.

I f an FBI Agent has reasonable grounds to believe that a Confidential Human
Source has engaged in unauthorized criminal activity (other than minor traffic
offenses), the FBI shall promptly notify a Confidential Human Source
Coordinator or the assigned FPO Attorney. In turn, the Confidential Human
Source Coordinator or assigned FPO Attorney shall notify the following FPOs of
the Confidential Human Source's criminal activity and his or her status as a
Confidential Human Source:
a.

the FPO i n whose District the criminal activity primarily occurred, unless
a state or local prosecuting office in that District has filed charges against
the Confidential Human Source for the criminal activity and there is no
basis for federal prosecution in that pistrict;

the FPO Attorney, i f any, who is participating in the conduct of an
investigation that is utilizing the Confidential Human Source or is working
with the Confidential Human Source in connection with a prosecution; and

the FPO Attorney, i f any, who authorized the Confidential Human Source
to engage in Otherwise Illegal Activity pursuant to paragraph V(B)
above.

Whenever such notifications are provided, the Chief Federal Prosecutors) and the
FBI SAC, with the concurrence o f each other, shall notify any state or local
prosecutor's office thai has jurisdiction over the Confidential Human Source's
criminal activity and that has not already filed charges against the Confidential
Human Source for the criminal activity o f the fact that the Confidential Human
Source has engaged in such criminal activity. The CFP(s) and the FBI SAC(s)
are not required, but may with the concurrence of each other, also notify the state
and local prosecutor's office of the person's status as a Confidential Human
Source.

NOTIFICATION REGARDING CERTAIN FEDERAL JUDICIAL
PROCEEDINGS
The FBI shall immediately notify an appropriate Confidential Human Source Coordinator
or the assigned FPO Attorney whenever an FBI Agent has reasonable grounds to believe
that:
1.

a current or former Confidential Human Source has been called to testify by the
prosecution in any federal grand jury or judicial proceeding;

the statements of a current or former Confidential Human Source have been, or
w i l l be, utilized by the prosecution in any federal judicial proceeding; or

Whenever such notifications to FPOs are provided, the FBI must also comply with the
Annual Validation Review requirements described above in paragraph (B)(C)(2).
15

an FPO Attorney intends to represent to a Court or jury that a current or former
Confidential Human Source is or was a co-conspirator or other criminally
culpable participant in any criminal activity.

P R I V I L E G E D OR E X C U L P A T O R Y I N F O R M A T I O N
1.

I f ait FPO is participating in the conduct of an investigation by the FBI mat is
utilizing a Confidential Human Source or working with a Confidential Human
Source in. connection with a prosecution, (he FBI shall notify the FPO Attorney
assigned to the matter, in advance whenever possible, i f the FBI has reasonable
grounds to believe that a Confidential Human Source w i l l obtain or provide
information that is subject .to, or arguably subj ect to, a legal privilege o f
confidentiality belonging to someone other than the Confidential Human Source.

Whenever an FBI Agent knows or reasonably believes that a current or former
Confidential Human Source has information that is exculpatory as to a target o f a
federal, state or local investigation, or as to a defendant (including a convicted
defendant) in a federal, state or local case, the FBI Agent shall disclose the
exculpatory information either to the assigned FPO Attorney that is participating,
or had participated, in the conduct o f the investigation or to a Confidential
Human S ource Coordinator.

In turn, the assigned FPO Attorney or Confidential Human Source Coordinator
shall disclose the exculpatory information to all affected federal, state and local
authorities. In the event the disclosure would jeopardize the security o f a
Confidential Human Source or seriously compromise an investigation, the FPO

Attorney or Confidential Human Source Coordinator shall refer the matter (o the
HSRC for consideration, except such matters with respect to an international
terrorism investigation, national security investigation, or other activity under
NSIG shall be referred to the A A G of the NSD or designee.
L I S T I N G A C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCE I N A N E L E C T R O N I C
SURVEILLANCE APPLICATION
• 1.

The FBI shall not name a Confidential Human Source as a named interceptee or a
violator in an affidavit in support o f an application made pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §
2 5 1 6 for an electronic surveillance order unless the FBI believes that:
a.

omitting the name o f the Confidential Human Source from the affidavit
would endanger that person's life or otherwise jeopardize an ongoing
investigation; or

the Confidential Human Source is a bona fide subject o f the investigation
based on his or her suspected involvement in unauthorized criminal
activity.

En the event that a Confidential Human Source is named in an electronic
surveillance affidavit under paragraph V I (E)(l) above, the F B I must inform the
FPO Attorney making the application and the Court to which the application is
made of the actual status of'the Confidential Human Source.

R E S P O N D I N G T O REQUESTS F R O M FPO A T T O R N E Y S R E G A R D I N G A
C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCE
1.

In any criminal matter arising under, or related to, these Guidelines, upon request
by an appropriate FPO Attorney, the FBI shall promptly provide the FPO Attorney

all relevant information concerning a Confidential Human Source, including
whether he or she is a current or former Confidential Human.Source for the FBI.
2.

I f the FBI SAC has an objection to providing such information based on specific
circumstances o f the case, he or she shall explain the objection to the FPO making
the request and any remaining disagreement as to whether the information should
be provided shall be resolved pursuant to the Exceptions and Dispute Resolution
section, paragraph I (E).

EXCEPTIONS TO T H E SPECIAL NOTIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS
The Director o f the FBI, with the written concurrence o f the Deputy Attorney General,
may withhold any notification required pursuant to paragraphs V I (A)-(F) i f it is
determined that the identity, position, or information provided by the Confidential Human
Source warrants extraordinary protection for sensitive national security reasons. Any
such determination shall be documented and maintained in the Confidential Human
Source file, along with the concurrence o f the Deputy Attorney General.
FILE REVIEWS
I f the FBI discloses any information about a Confidential Human Source to a FPO
pursuant to paragraphs V I (A)-(F), the FBI SAC and the CFP shall consult to facilitate
any review and copying o f the Confidential Human Source's files by the FPO that might
be necessary for an FPO Attorney to fulfill his or her disclosure obligations.
DESIGNEES

A n F B I SAC and a CFP may, with the concurrence o f each other, designate particular
individuals in their respective offices to carry out the functions assigned to them in
paragraphs V I (A)-(H).

VU
A.

C A S I N G A C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURPR

G E N E R A L PROVISIONS
If the FBI determines that a Confidential Human Source should be closed for cause or for
any other reason the FBI shall promptly:
1.

close the individual;

document the reasons for the decision to close the individual as a Confidential
Human Source in the Confidential Human Source's files;

i f the Confidential Human Source can be located, notify the Confidential Human
Source that he or she has been closed as a Confidential Human Source and
document that such notification has been provided in the same manner as set forth
in paragraph (U)(B){3), except that, i f the Confidential Human Source refuses to
acknowledge his receipt and understanding o f the notification, the FBI shall
document the refusal; and

•

i f the Confidential Human Source was authorized to engage i n Otherwise Illegal
Activity pursuant to paragraph V(B), immediately revoke that authorization under
the provisions o f paragraph V (B)(6).

D E L A Y E D N O T I F I C A T I O N TO A C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCE
The FBI may delay providing the notification to the Confidential Human Source
described above in paragraph o f V U (A)(3) during the time such notification might
jeopardize an ongoing investigation or prosecution or might cause the flight from
prosecution o f any person. I f the decision is made to delay providing a notification, that

decision and the reasons supporting it must be documented in the Confidential Human
Source's files.
C.

C O N T A C T S W I T H F O R M E R C O N F I D E N T I A L H U M A N SOURCES CLOSED
FOR CAUSE
Absent exceptional circumstances that are approved by an FBI Supervisor, in advance
whenever possible, an F B I Agent shall not initiate contact with or respond to contacts
from a former Confidential Human Source who has been closed for cause. When
granted, such approval shall be documented in the Confidential Human Source's files.

C O O R D I N A T I O N W I T H FPO A T T O R N E Y S
I f an FPO is participating in the conduct o f an investigation that is utilizing an FBI
Confidential Human Source or the FPO is working with a Confidential Human Source in
connection with a prosecution, the F B I shall coordinate with the FPO Attorney assigned
to the matter, in advance whenever possible, regarding any o f the decisions described in
paragraphs V I I (A)-(C).

Date:

12-13-06
ALBERTO R, GONZALES
ATTORNEY GENERAL