Criminal Code of Canada - section 184.3(7) - Giving authorization

section 184.3(7)

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

This section outlines the process for obtaining a written authorization for wiretapping or other means of surveillance when the authorization is given by telephone or other non-written means.

SECTION WORDING

184.3(7) Where a judge gives an authorization by telephone or other means of telecommunication, other than a means of telecommunication that produces a writing, (a) the judge shall complete and sign the authorization in writing, noting on its face the time, date and place at which it is given; (b) the applicant shall, on the direction of the judge, complete a facsimile of the authorization in writing, noting on its face the name of the judge who gave it and the time, date and place at which it was given; and (c) the judge shall, as soon as is practicable after the authorization has been given, cause the authorization to be placed in the packet referred to in subsection 187(1) and sealed in that packet.

EXPLANATION

Section 184.3(7) is a part of Canada's Criminal Code that outlines the process that judges must follow when providing authorization by telephone or other means of telecommunication for various investigative activities, such as wiretapping or surveillance. The section requires that if a judge provides an authorization by telephone or other means of telecommunication, other than a means of telecommunication that produces a writing, they must complete and sign the authorization in writing, noting the time, date, and place at which it was granted. The applicant must also complete a facsimile of the authorization in writing, noting the name of the judge who gave it and the time, date, and place it was granted. This section ensures that there is a clear record of the authorization granted, allowing for accountability and transparency in the judicial system. It also confirms that judges cannot provide authorization without proper documentation and legal procedures. This section intends to prevent misuse of investigative activities by ensuring that judges appropriately document decisions regarding surveillance or wiretapping requests to prevent any breaches of privacy, including unintended disclosures or abuse of power. Overall, Section 184.3(7) provides measures that regulate the authorization process for various investigative activities, ensuring that judges follow proper protocol and that there is transparency in the legal process. This section is crucial in upholding the fundamental rights of individuals regarding privacy while still allowing for effective law enforcement efforts.

COMMENTARY

Section 184.3(7) of the Criminal Code of Canada deals with a very important aspect of law enforcement, namely the use of telephone or other means of telecommunication to obtain authorization for certain investigative techniques such as wiretapping. This provision lays down the procedure that must be followed by judges and applicants in order to ensure that the authorization is valid and can be used in court. One of the key requirements of this section is that the judge must complete and sign the authorization in writing, noting down the time, date and place at which it was given. This is an important safeguard because it ensures that the authorization can be traced back to the judge who gave it and that there is a record of when it was given. Without this requirement, there would be a risk that the authorization could be abused or that it could be unclear who authorized a particular investigation. Another requirement of this section is that the applicant must complete a facsimile of the authorization in writing, noting down the name of the judge who gave it and the time, date and place at which it was given. This serves as a backup record in case the original authorization is lost or tampered with. It also helps to establish a clear paper trail that can be followed to verify the validity of the authorization. Finally, the judge is required to place the authorization in a sealed packet as soon as practicable after it has been given and to ensure that it is included in the packet referred to in subsection 187(1). This provides an additional layer of protection for the authorization by ensuring that it is securely stored and cannot be accessed by anyone who does not have a legitimate reason to do so. Overall, Section 184.3(7) of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important provision that helps to protect the rights of individuals while also providing law enforcement with the tools they need to investigate serious crimes. By ensuring that authorizations for investigative techniques are properly documented and recorded, this section helps to prevent abuses of power and ensures that investigations are conducted in a transparent and accountable manner. While it may seem like a minor procedural requirement, it is an essential component of a fair and just legal system.

STRATEGY

Section 184.3(7) of the Criminal Code of Canada brings up several strategic considerations that investigators and law enforcement officials must take into account when conducting investigations that involve wiretapping or other forms of electronic surveillance. These considerations include ensuring compliance with the law, obtaining judicial authorization, keeping accurate records, adhering to proper procedures, and maintaining the integrity of the investigation. One of the most crucial strategic considerations when dealing with this section of the Criminal Code is ensuring compliance with the law. The Constitution of Canada guarantees certain rights and freedoms, including privacy and freedom from unreasonable search and seizure. Section 184.3(7) places strict limits on wiretapping and other forms of electronic surveillance, requiring that they be authorized by a judge and conducted in accordance with specific procedures. Compliance with these requirements is essential to avoid violating the rights of individuals and undermining the integrity of the investigation. Obtaining judicial authorization is another key strategic consideration in complying with this section of the Criminal Code. Judges are required to review evidence presented to them by investigators in order to determine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that electronic surveillance is necessary to prevent or uncover serious criminal activity. Judges must also ensure that any surveillance is conducted in a manner that minimizes harm to the privacy of individuals who are not suspected of criminal activity. Keeping accurate records is also important when conducting investigations involving electronic surveillance. Section 184.3(7) requires that judges complete and sign authorizations in writing and that applicants complete facsimiles noting the time, date, and place at which the authorization was given. Proper record-keeping is essential to provide an accurate and comprehensive account of the investigation, to ensure that those involved follow proper procedures, and to protect against legal challenges based on insufficient documentation. Adhering to proper procedures is yet another strategic consideration when conducting investigations under this section of the Criminal Code. Investigators must ensure that wiretaps and other forms of electronic surveillance are conducted in accordance with specific legal requirements, including obtaining judicial authorization, limiting the scope and duration of surveillance, and minimizing any incidental interception of communications not related to the investigation. Failure to follow proper procedures can result in the evidence obtained being ruled inadmissible in court, undermining the effectiveness of the investigation and potentially damaging the reputation of law enforcement officials. Finally, maintaining the integrity of the investigation is a key strategic consideration when employing electronic surveillance under this section of the Criminal Code. Investigators must ensure that any surveillance is conducted in a manner that does not compromise ongoing investigations or put the safety of individuals at risk. They must also develop strategies to protect against leaks or breaches of confidentiality that could compromise the investigation or create legal liabilities. Strategies that could be employed to address these strategic considerations include: 1. Developing and implementing comprehensive policies and procedures for obtaining and conducting electronic surveillance in compliance with Section 184.3(7) of the Criminal Code of Canada. 2. Ensuring that investigators receive training on these policies and procedures and understand the legal requirements and technical aspects of electronic surveillance. 3. Keeping accurate and detailed records of all interactions with the judicial system, including applications for electronic surveillance, warrants received and executed, and details of any subsequent investigations. 4. Implementing appropriate safeguards to protect the confidentiality of investigations and minimize the risk of leaks, breaches, or other security threats. 5. Regularly reviewing and updating policies and procedures to ensure compliance with changing legal requirements and emerging technological trends. Section 184.3(7) of the Criminal Code of Canada places strict limits on wiretapping and other forms of electronic surveillance. To ensure compliance with the law and protect the integrity of investigations, law enforcement officials must carefully consider the strategic considerations outlined in this article and develop comprehensive strategies for obtaining and conducting electronic surveillance.