In a covert surveillance situation, what is typically prioritized?

In a covert surveillance situation, the element of surprise is typically prioritized because maintaining concealment from the subject being observed is crucial for the success of the operation. When the observer remains undetected, they are more likely to collect accurate and comprehensive information about the subject's behavior without interference or alteration of actions. This capability is essential for gathering evidence in a way that is both effective and admissible in court, as any premature reveal of the observer's presence could compromise the entire operation.

The importance of surprise in this context stems from the goal of covert surveillance: to gather intelligence discreetly and efficiently. The longer the observer can remain unnoticed, the better the likelihood of obtaining genuine insights into the subject's activities, as they will likely act naturally when they do not know they are being observed.

While safety, speed, and community approval are important factors in law enforcement operations, they are secondary to the need for maintaining the element of surprise during covert surveillance. Prioritizing the element of surprise facilitates a more successful operation and contributes to the overall objectives of the investigation.