Retrieval of Information for Use in Pretrial Release and the Regulation of Criminal Record Information Systems

• NCJ Number: 78239
• Author(s): J Schneider
• Date Published: 1980
• Length: 62 pages
• Corporate Author: Wisconsin Legislative Council
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Staff Brief 80-9.

Annotation

This report provides background information and discusses issues relevant to the retrieval of information regarding a defendant's criminal record and pending legal status under the Wisconsin criminal justice system.

Abstract

The report was prepared as part of a study of the use of pretrial release in Wisconsin. It describes the functions of the State's Crime Information Bureau (CIB), which maintains data on offenses, arrest, and identification and links all State and local law enforcement agencies in the State through the Transaction Information for Management of Enforcement (TIME) system. TIME users can obtain factual data in the computerized files maintained by the CIB. The CIB data files include a computerized name index, a wanted persons file, a missing persons file, a stolen vehicle file, and a probation/parole status file. Examination of a particular case illustrates the problems involved in information retrieval via the CIB and indicates the need for accurate and timely information to improve the quality of pretrial release decisions. The report details options for changes in the CIB to increase the efficiency of information retrieval. Among these are the computerization of the CIB criminal record files, an increase in the staff and operating hours of the CIB's identification section, the installation of fingerprint transmission devices, the requirement that the CIB probation and parole file be queried regarding all persons arrested, and the creation of bail evaluation units. Also examined are broader issues relating to the regulation of criminal record information systems, with emphasis on the conflict between the individual's right of privacy and the need and right to information for government, the public, and businesses. Recently enacted Wisconsin legislation, Federal regulations relating to federally funded State and local criminal justice information systems, and bills recently introduced in the Wisconsin legislature are summarized. Footnotes and appendixes presenting sections of Wisconsin statutes and related information are provided.