Unless the context requires otherwise, the following definitions apply to ARM 23.2.201 through 23.2.205:

(1) "Active investigation" means an investigation when officers are physically collecting data in another jurisdiction, conducting surveillance or interviews, executing search warrants, or any related activities. Active investigation does not include the collection, analysis or dissemination of criminal intelligence information or unconfirmed information secured prior to the initiation of an active investigation.

(2) "Investigative protocol" means the procedure used by the Montana department of justice law enforcement agencies to notify other law enforcement agencies and coordinate investigative activities to ensure the maximum effective use of personnel, respect for jurisdictional boundaries, and safety of officers involved in an investigation.

(3) "Liaison officer" means an officer in a police department, sheriff's office, state or federal agency designated by the agency head to serve as the contact between local or federal law enforcement agencies and state investigative agencies within the Montana department of justice.

(4) "State agency" means a criminal investigative agency within the Montana department of justice including those agencies that investigate narcotics, organized crime, gambling, general criminal investigations, motor vehicle investigations, worker's compensation (state fund) fraud, and other areas of responsibility as defined in section 44-2-115 , MCA.