When may Officer Jimenez be required to disclose the identity of criminal informant Carlos?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Under the "materiality test," Officer Jimenez may be required to disclose the identity of the criminal informant Carlos if his identity is material to the guilt or innocence of the defendant. This means that the informant's testimony or information is relevant and necessary to prove or disprove an essential element of the charge against the defendant. The defendant's mere request for the identity of the informant or the issuance of a search warrant may not be enough to compel disclosure if the informant's identity is not material to the case. However, if the informant participated in the crime or was an accomplice of the defendant, the defense may have a stronger argument for disclosure. In any case, the court will balance the defendant's right to a fair trial with the government's interest in protecting the safety and effectiveness of its informants.

When May Officer Jimenez Be Required to Disclose the Identity