Operational Planning & Undercover Techniques

The success or failure of any operation is determined long before officers arrive on scene. This one-day course teaches law enforcement professionals how to properly plan and execute safe, effective operations through proven operational planning principles, undercover techniques, and an introduction to surveillance. Students will learn how to gather and evaluate intelligence, identify and mitigate risks, develop contingency plans, assign operational roles, coordinate surveillance teams, and make sound decisions under rapidly changing conditions—all with the goal of increasing officer safety and mission success.

Drawing from more than 30 years with the LAPD, including leadership assignments in Metropolitan Division and the elite Special Investigation Section (SIS), Mark Aguilar provides a behind-the-scenes look at the planning process used during high-risk surveillance, undercover operations, search warrants, fugitive apprehensions, and tactical enforcement missions. Through real-world case studies and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical knowledge and immediately applicable techniques that can be used on their very next operation. Whether you’re a patrol officer, detective, narcotics investigator, gang investigator, or tactical team member, this course will provide a proven framework for planning and executing successful operations.

This course is ideal for officers, detectives, and supervisors who want to strengthen their operational planning skills and enhance their effectiveness during undercover and surveillance assignments.

This course is offered in two course formats: "Hosted Classes" where students register individually, and "Contracted Classes" where agencies purchase the entire course at a discounted rate. For scheduling or inquiries, please contact us.

Students are responsible for obtaining permission and approval from their departments prior to registration if the student plans to attend on duty and have the agency pay for it. You know the rules.

If you want to attend, we recommend working with your agency prior to registering for a class. Because if you register for a class, and your department does not approve your time or tuition for any reason, you are still responsible for the terms of the attendance and cancellation policy including any applicable tuition.  Again, we know you get it and we look forward to seeing you in class!

This course is designed for law enforcement officers, investigators, supervisors, and security professionals tasked with conducting covert operations; however, all current law enforcement and security personnel of any rank and assignment are welcome.