On rare occasions, the life of a witness is threatened due to his/her testimony in a major criminal case. In these instances, the United States Attorney's Office may recommend the witness be placed in the Witness Protection Program. The deciding official is the Attorney General.
Since the program's inception in 1970 pursuant to the Organized Crime Control Act, 7,000 people have entered the program in addition to 9,500 family members.
Can they adjust to life without crime? The U.S. Marshals report that among those in the program with criminal histories, 17% are subsequently arrested and charged.
Is it worth it the risk? There is an 89% conviction rate for cases involving protected witnesses. These types of crimes in include drug trafficking, terrorists and organized crime.
How effective is the Witness Protection Program? The U.S. Marshals report that no one who complies with security guidelines has ever been harmed, while under the active protection of the Marshals Service.