District Of Columbia § 5-333.07 - Techniques and procedures for investigations and preliminary inquiries.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 5-333.07 — Techniques and procedures for investigations and preliminary inquiries., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-333.07. Techniques and procedures for investigations and preliminary inquiries.
5-333.07The investigative techniques used in any particular investigation or preliminary inquiry shall be dictated by the needs of the investigation or inquiry.
The MPD shall employ minimization procedures in all investigations and preliminary inquiries involving First Amendment activities. Where the conduct of an investigation or preliminary inquiry presents a choice between the uses of more or less intrusive methods or investigative techniques, the MPD shall consider whether the information could be obtained in a timely and effective way by the less intrusive means.
The following techniques may be used in an authorized investigation or authorized preliminary inquiry involving First Amendment activities, without additional authorization:
Examination of public records and other sources of information available to the public;
Examination of MPD indices, files, and records;
Examination of records and files of other government or law enforcement agencies;
Interviews of any person; and
Physical, photographic, or video surveillance from places open to the public or otherwise legally made available.
Undercover officers, informants, and mail covers may be used in an authorized preliminary inquiry after written approval and authorization is obtained from the Chief of Police or his designee. Mail openings and Wire Interception and Interception of Oral Communications, as defined in , shall not be used in a preliminary inquiry.
The following techniques may be used in an authorized investigation involving First Amendment activities, after written approval and authorization is obtained from the Chief of Police or his designee:
Wire Interception and Interception of Oral Communications, as defined in ;
Undercover officers and informants; and
Mail covers, mail openings, pen registers, and trap and trace devices.
If there is an immediate threat of criminal activity, verbal authority by the designated MPD commander to use the investigative techniques described in subsection (d) and (e) of this section is sufficient until a written authorization can be obtained; provided, that other legal requirements have been met. The required written authorization shall be obtained within 5 days of the occurrence of the emergency.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 5-333.07
What does D.C. Code § 5-333.07 cover?
Section 5-333.07 ("Techniques and procedures for investigations and preliminary inquiries.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 5-333.07?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 5-333.07" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 5-333.07 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.