What is the goal of conducting surveillance in field operations?

The goal of conducting surveillance in field operations primarily revolves around gathering information that can assist in concluding a case. This information may include observations, patterns of behavior, and interactions that can provide insights into criminal activities or compliance with immigration laws. Effective surveillance allows enforcement officers to build a comprehensive understanding of a situation, which is critical for making informed decisions and progressing an investigation.

While the collection of evidence for legal proceedings is vital, it is a more specific aspect of the broader goal of information gathering. Monitoring employee performance is not typically a primary focus during surveillance operations; instead, the emphasis is on understanding the subjects of the investigation. Eliminating all risks may be an admirable attempt, but in reality, surveillance is often conducted in environments where risks cannot be fully mitigated. Thus, the focus is primarily on obtaining relevant information that informs case conclusions rather than guaranteeing the absence of risk.