What must agencies ensure about records entered into DCIN/NCIC?

Agencies must ensure that records entered into DCIN/NCIC maintain accuracy, completeness, and validity due to the critical nature of the information being shared. The reliability of these databases is paramount for law enforcement operations, as they are often used to make decisions in urgent and sensitive situations. Accurate records contribute to effective investigations, help prevent wrongful arrests, and support the judicial process. Completeness ensures that all necessary information is included, which can be vital for context, while validity refers to the information being authentic and sourced correctly.

Maintaining high standards for data integrity in these systems protects the rights of individuals and ensures that law enforcement personnel can trust the information they are accessing. Inaccurate or incomplete records can lead to serious legal consequences and undermine public trust in law enforcement agencies. Thus, the emphasis on accuracy, completeness, and validity is fundamental to the operations of DCIN/NCIC.