How many bait money orders are typically used in investigations?

In investigations, particularly those involving postal crimes or fraud, it is common practice to use three bait money orders as part of operational protocols. The use of multiple bait money orders allows investigators to better capture fraudulent activities and provides a more robust method for observing and documenting criminal behavior. By using three, agents can effectively monitor different transactions and create a clearer pattern of operation, which can be critical for building a case against suspects. This approach also adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, making it harder for offenders to anticipate and evade law enforcement efforts. Implementing a single bait money order may not provide enough data for comprehensive analysis, while using more than three can complicate the operation without significant added value. Therefore, three is considered an optimal number to balance effectiveness and efficiency in investigations.