How do police identify undercover detectives?

Question

Well, lets say an undercover cop is subduing someone, or attempting to make a purchase of illicit substances, if a regular uni sees that detective and doesn't know him, how does he know not to get involved? Also, have there ever been any major s***w ups regarding a situation of this manner?

Answer 1

At a briefing at the start of their shift they are told of any ongoing undercover operations...if they did arrest an undercover...he would go to jail too....bet he gets out ahead of you though.

Answer 2

Different tactics here depending where you are....There may be a color of the day that undercover wears....or a password if they converse.

Yes there have been foul ups from one law enforcement entity not recognizing another...

Answer 3

yes there are occasional cases where this goes bad, very bad. google is your friend.

usually there are code words, or a particular clothing signal, or location of a semi-hidden badge, or they just know each other .

Answer 4

IN NYC IT'S CALLED THE COLOR OF THE DAY. IT'S USUALLY A SWEAT BAND WORN ON THEIR WRIST.