What must always be obtained before sharing sensitive information?

Before sharing sensitive information, the appropriate course of action is to obtain permission from a lieutenant or higher-ranking officer. This requirement is in place to ensure that sensitive information is handled in accordance with departmental policies and legal standards. Higher-ranking officers typically have the necessary experience and authority to make informed decisions about the dissemination of sensitive data. They are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of the information, as well as adhering to regulations and protocols that govern its release.

Acquiring family consent, public approval, or a judicial order, while important in different contexts, does not align with the internal procedures typically required for handling sensitive information within law enforcement. Family consent is not relevant to the sharing of information unless it specifically involves private information about an individual. Public approval is unnecessary in most cases of internal data management, as law enforcement operations often require confidentiality. A judicial order can be essential in some legal situations, but it is not a general prerequisite for sharing sensitive information within the department's internal communication framework.