What is one key piece of information required when querying the "Stolen Article" file?

One key piece of information required when querying the "Stolen Article" file is the serial number of the item. The serial number serves as a unique identifier for the stolen item, allowing law enforcement and authorized personnel to pinpoint the specific article in question. This detail is critical because it differentiates one item from another, even if they are the same type or brand. Without the serial number, it becomes challenging to verify ownership and track the item in databases accurately.

While other information, such as personal identification of the owner, location, and insurance details, may be useful in some contexts, the serial number directly pertains to the item itself and is essential for facilitating an effective search and recovery process within the NCIC system.