It’s common knowledge that the government uses all kinds of rats to secure convictions. We don’t call them rats in court, however. They’re referred to as CIs, CS, un-indicted co-conspirators, cooperators, “individual number 1,” and the like. Many times, though, they’re referred to by their names. Indictments and 302s include their last names in all caps*, and with a cursory review of the docket, you can get an idea of what they pled to and what they may know about your guy.
The government uses all types of folks looking for an easier way out of the BOP’s spartan accommodations: from the wretched, luckless errand boy who drove someone to one deal, to the top dogs who’ve organized a transnational dope-slinging syndicate. Rationally, the government needs the kingpins, and those closest to them, when trying to collar other cartel leaders. Continue reading