Florida enacts first-of-its-kind law to protect confidential informants

Florida enacts first-of-its-kind law to protect confidential informants, Nat'l L.J. (law.com), May 4, 2009:

The death of a woman who was killed while working undercover in a police drug sting has prompted Florida lawmakers to pass a first-of-its-kind law to protect confidential informants.

The law, which unanimously passed the Senate on April 30 and is on the governor's desk for approval, establishes uniform guidelines and written standards for the use of confidential informants by Florida police departments. Specifically, it requires law enforcement agencies to take into account the informant's age, maturity and substance abuse history to protect the informant from any potential harm.

The family of the informant is suing the city for wrongful death.