These Are the Unusual Rules People in the Witness Protection Program Must Obey

Movies often show protected witnesses surrounded by armed agents every hour of the day. In reality, most participants do not have guards permanently stationed outside their homes. Constant protection is usually saved for the most dangerous moments, such as court appearances or travel connected to a major trial.

Once witnesses settle into their new location, much of their safety depends on secrecy. They may live in an ordinary house, shop in local stores, and go to work without visible protection. The government has hidden them, but that does not mean someone is always nearby to stop an attack.