How Police Officers Verify Criminal History: A Comprehensive Guide

Verifying criminal history is a crucial part of ensuring public safety, and this process is often carried out using advanced databases and systems. This article will explore how police officers check for previous arrests by focusing on the Interstate Identification Index (Triple I), the NCIC (National Crime Information Center), and other relevant systems.

The Interstate Identification Index (Triple I)

The Interstate Identification Index (Triple I) is a subsheet of the NCIC database used by law enforcement to quickly identify individuals and check their criminal history. According to industry experts, the Triple I is a powerful tool that police officers can use to gather information on a suspect's previous arrest records.

NCIC and State-Based Systems in Texas

In Texas, the two primary systems used for searching criminal history are the Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC) and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The NCIC system typically does not include misdemeanor arrest records, whereas the TCIC provides records of both misdemeanor and felony arrests. Both systems cover all arrest records, irrespective of the court outcome.

Verification at the Scene

During a traffic stop or other law enforcement interaction, a police officer may ask for a driver's identification. This ID is then input into a computer system to access the criminal record. As of 2007, I had to use a main computer terminal in the communications center for this purpose, and it was not possible to access this information on the in-car computer.

After inputting the ID, the officer's computer system will pull up the entire record, including all state records and arrest history. In some cases, the process of running the ID may be more extensive, with information being sent by computer terminal text message.

Law Enforcement Only Networks

There is an IntraNet, a closed network accessible only to police and law enforcement personnel. This network allows them to search various databases, including those for motor vehicle information and criminal records. This system, commonly known as the Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (LETS), ensures that law enforcement personnel can access critical information about individuals without exposing personal data to the public.

Law enforcement personnel can use the IntraNet to run vehicle license plate numbers, driver's license numbers, and various ID numbers. This access is vital for verifying an individual's criminal history, ensuring public safety, and preventing crimes.

Public Access vs. Law Enforcement Access

It is important to note that the IntraNet and the related systems discussed here are NOT AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC. This means that while the general public may not have access to this information, it is critical for maintaining the security and efficiency of law enforcement operations.

Case Studies: Real-Life Experiences

There are numerous real-life experiences that underscore the importance of these systems. For instance, individuals pulled over in one state may have a warrant or record in another state that is only accessible through the systems described. As demonstrated in the Nevada case, being unaware of an outstanding warrant in a different state highlights the need for thorough background checks and the availability of systems that can quickly provide this information.

Conclusion

Verifying criminal history is a complex yet important process that relies on advanced databases and systems. The NCIC and the Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC) play crucial roles in this process, ensuring that law enforcement can access the necessary information to maintain public safety. Understanding these systems can help the public appreciate the complexity of law enforcement operations and the critical role played by these databases in safeguarding communities.

For more information on criminal history checks and related topics, please refer to additional resources.