What does the Interstate Identification Index refer to?

The Interstate Identification Index, commonly referred to as III, is a national repository containing information on criminal histories and is a part of the FBI's National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The purpose of the III is to provide a swift and efficient way for law enforcement agencies across different states to share and access criminal history information. This helps facilitate background checks and ensures that relevant criminal history data is accessible for various law enforcement purposes, such as during an arrest or in the context of firearms background checks.

This system is essential for maintaining public safety and enhancing collaboration between various jurisdictions. By leveraging the III, law enforcement agencies can perform more thorough checks on individuals, leading to better-informed decisions in their operations.