NCJ Number
203766
Journal
ICJIA Research Bulletin Volume: 2 Issue: 7 Dated: November 2003 Pages: 1-8
Date Published
November 2003
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This bulletin presents the results of Illinois’ 2003 Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) audit.
Abstract
Periodic audits of Illinois’ CHRI system are conducted by the Illinois Criminal Justice Authority to assess the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of the criminal history records. Compliance with Federal guidelines is also reviewed. The methodology, findings, and recommendations for improvement of the CHRI are outlined. The CHRI provides critical criminal justice data which are collected, maintained, and disseminated via the Computerized Criminal History (CCH) database, which in turn is interfaced with the Integrated Fingerprint Identification System. The audit assesses four main components of the CHRI system: accuracy of the data provided, timeliness of the processing of the information, completeness of the criminal history information, and flagging of the records of convicted felons. Methodology involves a statewide representative sample of 1,640 arrests during 1994 through 1998, generated from 50 randomly selected criminal justice agencies. Findings indicate a completeness rate of 92 percent for arrest events and 74 percent for State’s attorney’s dispositions; two arrest data fields had high rates of incomplete information; and nearly three-quarters of arrest submissions were posted within 90 days, an improvement from previous years. A table offers an audit report card on the CHRI in Illinois; data compares the Illinois results to the Bureau of Justice Administration’s standards. Based on the audit recommendations, the Illinois State Police have made modifications and technological improvements, but there remains the need for greater communication and collaboration between the Illinois State Police and the reporting agencies. Tables, figures