What is an ORI?

An ORI, or Originating Agency Identifier, is a unique number assigned to every Law Enforcement or Criminal Justice Agency that accesses the Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Network. This identifier is crucial for ensuring that data access and exchanges are accurately tracked and attributed to the correct agency. It allows for the proper classification of requests for information and facilitates communication between different agencies within the law enforcement community.

By having a distinct ORI, agencies can manage and maintain their data privacy and security protocols effectively while ensuring that the information shared complies with legal standards. The ORI is essential for maintaining the integrity of the data exchange process and ensures that any inquiries made against the CJIS database can be traced back to a responsible source, promoting accountability in criminal justice operations.