Editor’s note: The following are excerpts from the standard “Cooperating Individual Agreement” used between the county’s Drug-Enforcement Unit (DEU) and a “cooperating individual” (CI):

“It is agreed that in consideration for CI’s cooperation with the DEU, CI may receive compsensation and/or reimbursement for expenses as otherwise agreed.”

“It is agreed and understood that the CI is cooperating with the DEU on a case or time basis as an independent contractor and that any payment he/she receives from the DEU will not be subject to Federal or State Income Tax withholding or Social Security.”

“It is agreed that as an independent contractor with the DEU, that the CI is not entitled to Workman’s Compensation or unemployment from the State of Kansas, and CI will not hold that State of Kansas, Douglas County, or the City of Lawrence liable for any injuries or damages incurred by reason of his/her cooperation and association with the DEU.”

“It is agreed that the CI will not reveal to any person, except as authorized or directed by the DEU or the District Attorney’s Office, his/her cooperation with the DEU.”

“It is agreed that if the CI is cooperating in this agreement in order to receive favorable consideration by the District Attorney’s Office regarding pending criminal charges, the Court shall determine if necessary, whether the CI has completely fulfilled his/her obligations under this agreement. It is further agreed that if the CI is facing sentencing, the State may disclose to the Court at sentencing the fact that the CI failed to comply with the terms and conditions of this agreement and/or that the CI has provided false and/or misleading information.”