Final answer:
Prosecutors must ensure procedural safeguards are followed to use testimony from a jailhouse informant, consistent with Sixth Amendment rights and specifically outlined procedures such as Miranda warnings.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to use testimony from a jailhouse informant, prosecutors will now have to demonstrate the use of procedural safeguards effective to secure the privilege against self-incrimination. The Sixth Amendment provides the right for those accused of crimes to confront and cross-examine witnesses presented by the prosecution, ensuring that only testimony given in a courtroom and subject to cross-examination is typically admissible. Furthermore, specific safeguards such as the Miranda rights, which include warnings of the right to remain silent and the right to have counsel present, must be adhered to during custodial interrogations to protect against self-incrimination.
Additionally, the defense must be informed of the evidence against them in order to prepare a strong defense, and this includes any testimony from jailhouse informants. If a defendant enters into a plea bargain, this often involves pleading guilty to a lesser charge and may include waiving the right to an appeal. In some cases, the defendant may agree to testify against others or accept a lighter punishment in exchange for cooperation.