NCJ Number
165248
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 65 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1996) Pages: 21-23
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The Violent Gang and Terrorist Organizations File (VGTOF) was established in October 1995 as a component of the National Crime Information Center to give all police agencies access to useful information on a growing crime problem that jeopardizes the safety of police officers and citizens in an increasing number of communities.
Abstract
The VGTOF consists of two major classifications. The Group Reference Capability provides information on terrorist groups and gangs, and the Group Member Capability identifies individual members. Both groups and individuals must meet specific criteria to be included. Procedures for entering information into NCIC vary by State. Agencies entering data into the VGTOF must update the records they establish, delete any information that is no longer valid, and maintain documentation to support every entry. This documentation is important to prevent litigation and to avoid problems during the biannual audits by the FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services Division. The VGTOF currently contains entries for 445 groups and 180 individuals. The VGTOF enables both large and small police agencies to quickly identify and safety apprehend the members of these dangerous criminal groups. Photograph and 6 reference notes