What should be done with records that are no longer valid in the NCIC?

Records that are no longer valid in the NCIC must be reviewed and removed as needed. This process is essential to maintain the integrity and accuracy of the database, ensuring that only current and pertinent information is available to law enforcement agencies. Regular review and appropriate removal of outdated or invalid records help prevent confusion, reduce the risk of wrongful arrests or investigations, and improve the overall efficiency of data management within the NCIC.

Archiving records indefinitely could hinder the database’s performance and lead to information overload, making it more challenging for law enforcement to retrieve relevant data. Sharing invalid records with local law enforcement could result in misleading or incorrect information being used in investigations. Deleting records without any process would undermine the checks and balances necessary for a reliable system, potentially leading to the loss of important data that should be revisited or retained for historical or administrative purposes.