◆ SpookStack

+ eS C oe, On yO ‘ ' . "Our policy on the use of microphone surveillances is based upon a memorandum from forner Attorney General Herbert Brownell dated Hay 20, 1954, in which he approved the use of microphone surveil- lances with or without trespass. In this memo- randum Mr. Brownell said in part: wty recognize that for the FBI to fulfill its important intelligence function, considerations of internal security and the national safety are paramount and, therefore, may compel the unre- stricted use of this technique in the national interest.‘ “In light of this policy, in the internal security field, we are utilizing microphone surveillances on a restricted basis even though trespass is necessary to assist in uncovering the activities of Soviet intelligence agents. and Communist Party leaders, In the interests of national safety, microphone surveillances are also utilized on a restricted basis, even though trespass is necessary, in uncovering major criminal activities. We are using such coverage in connection with our investigations of the clandestine activities of top hoodlurms and organized crime. From an intelligence standpoint, this investigative techniqu has produced results unobtainable through other means. The information so obtained is treated in the same Manner as information obtained from wire tans, that is, not from the standpoint of evidentiary value but for intelligence purposes," “There is no Federal legislation at the present time pertaining to the use of microphone surveil- lances, The passage of any restrictive legislation in this field would be a definite loss to our investigative operations, both in the internal security field and in our fight againat the criminal element. This is especially true in the case of organized crime where we have too few Weapons at our command to give up the valuable technique of microphones."