Protecting the lives, property, and constitutional rights of people in Idaho since 1919.
-
BCI
HOME -
FINGERPRINTING &
BACKGROUND CHECKS -
CRIMINAL HISTORY
AFIS -
SEX OFFENDER
REGISTRY -
MISSING PERSON
CLEARINGHOUSE -
UNIFORM CRIME
REPORTING -
AUDIT &
TRAINING -
BCI
FORMS
Bureau of Criminal Identification
The Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) provides information and identification services that assist law enforcement agencies detect and apprehend criminals, which promote public and officer safety, and that support the criminal justice system in the prosecution, adjudication, and correctional supervision of offenders.
BCI is the State's central repository of criminal records, fingerprints, and crime statistics. Consistent with that role, it also coordinates terminal access to the Idaho Public Safety and Security System, known as ILETS through training and compliance activities, serves as the control terminal agency for the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and operates the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
Recipients of BCI services and assistance include every component of the criminal justice community: local, state, and federal. BCI also directly interacts with and serves the general public through some of its functions; BCI strives to be customer-driven and service-oriented. Efforts are continually underway to improve operations and thereby meet the demands of the criminal justice community for immediate access to information and for swift and accurate criminal identification.
Contact Information
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
Applicant Background Checks
As authorized by law, criminal history information is provided for non-criminal justice purposes, such as employment screening and licensure. The fee-supported applicant program has grown dramatically in recent years as Congress and the Legislature continue to expand background check requirements. Annually, our staff processes approximately 55,000 applicant fingerprint cards and conducts about 20,000 name checks. Non-law enforcement, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals may receive records maintained by the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) through the methods outlined below. This service is often used to conduct background checks for licensing and employment screening. It also provides criminal background checks for personal inquiries. Idaho code 67-3008 (6) states "A person or private agency, or public agency, other than the department, shall not disseminate criminal history record information obtained from the department to a person or agency that is not a criminal justice agency or a court without a signed release of the subject of record or unless otherwise provided by law."
Fingerprint Services
Fingerprinting services are offered at 700 S. Stratford Dr., Suite 120, in Meridian. We are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, no appointments necessary. Our fee is $10.00 for the first card and $5.00 for each additional card. We accept cash, check or credit card payments. This does not include the background-processing fee.
If you are needing fingerprint services outside the Treasure Valley please contact your local police department or sheriff's office.
Fingerprint Background Checks
To request this check, submit a complete set of inked and rolled fingerprints on an applicant fingerprint card, our Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Form (Changes to form) including our Payment Authorization Form, and required payment. Fingerprint cards must include: Subject of record's name (print), alias names (including maiden and previous married names), current address, citizenship, descriptive data, date of birth, place of birth, reason for being fingerprinted, and signature of person being fingerprinted. The official taking the fingerprints must date and sign the fingerprint card. The date must be within 180 days of the fingerprint check submission.
Payment Method
The required fee for a fingerprint check is $17.50. Our fingerprint fee will be increasing to $25.00 as of July 1, 2013. Requests received on and after July 1, 2013 with the wrong payment amount will be returned to the requesting party. We will accept payment by cash check or credit/debit card. There will be an additional processing fee of $1.00 plus 3% of the total transaction for all payments made by credit or debit card. Our Payment Authorization Form must be completed and sent to us along with the fingerprint card, the Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Form and required fee. Please make sure to follow the instuctions on all forms.
Requests with missing data and wrong payment amount will be returned. A $20 processing fee will be charged for any returned check. The request may be hand delivered or mailed to the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). Please keep in mind, BCI does not telephone or fax results. Allow ample time for processing, as requests are processed on first come first served basis.
DOWNLOAD FORM:
Name Based Background Check
To request this check, submit a completed Name Based Criminal Background Check Form and required fee. Be aware it is not uncommon for criminal offenders to use alias names and false dates of birth, which would adversely affect the completeness and accuracy of a non-fingerprint based search of the Idaho Criminal History Repository. Idaho law does not require a waiver. However, without a waiver, any arrest more than 12 months old, without a disposition, cannot be given to a non-criminal justice agency. The signature date on waivers must be within 180 days of the name check submission.
Payment Method
The required fee for a name based check is $20.00. We will accept payment by cash check or credit/debit card. There will be an additional processing fee of $1.00 plus 3% of the total transaction for all payments made by credit or debit card. Our Payment Authorization Form must be completed and sent to us along with the fingerprint card, the Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Form and required fee. Please make sure to follow the instuctions on all forms.
Requests with missing data and wrong payment amount will be returned. A $20 processing fee will be charged for any returned check. The request may be hand delivered or mailed to the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). Please keep in mind, BCI does not telephone or fax results. Allow ample time for processing, as requests are processed on first come first served basis.
DOWNLOADABLE FORM:
Criminal History Checks Under the National Child Protection Act
The Idaho State Police (ISP), Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), has established a program pursuant to the National Child Protection Act to permit qualified entities to submit fingerprint cards on employees and volunteers to receive state and federal criminal history information, in order to promote a broader exchange of criminal history information for purposes of assisting entities that provide care, treatment, education, training, instruction, supervision or recreation to children, the elderly or individuals with disabilities. The state and national criminal history record checks can help screen volunteers and employees associated with these entities and could help prevent the abuse of those served by the entities.
Idaho Applicant Fingerprint Program For Criminal History Record Checks by a Qualified Entity Under the National Child Protection Act of 1993, as amended
In 1993, Congress passed the National Child Protection Act (NCPA) that authorized criminal history record checks for persons who work with children in either an employee or volunteer status. This Act was amended in 1994 to include elderly and disabled persons. The Idaho State Police (ISP), Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), has established a program pursuant to the NCPA to permit qualified entities to submit fingerprint cards on employees and volunteers to receive state and federal criminal history information, in order to promote a broader exchange of criminal history information for purposes of assisting entities that provide care, treatment, education, training, instruction, supervision or recreation to children, the elderly or individuals with disabilities. The state and national criminal history record checks can help screen volunteers and employees associated with these entities and could help prevent the abuse of those served by the entities.
The ISP BCI maintains the state's central repository of criminal history information. The repository is an automated database of records based on arrests reported to BCI from Idaho criminal justice agencies. As per Idaho Code, Section 67-3008, the bureau shall be the state's sole source of fingerprint submissions for criminal justice and applicant or licensing purposes to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The mission of this NCPA program is to protect:
Children (any unmarried person under 18 years of age, who has not been emancipated by order of the court);
The elderly (a person who is 60 years of age or older);
Individuals with disabilities (persons with a mental or physical impairment who require assistance to perform one or more daily living tasks)
To become a "qualified entity" through the ISP BCI, under the Child Protection Act of 1993, as amended,
an organization will need to do the following:
1. Download a copy of the Qualified Entity Application and the User Agreement from our website. OR Contact the ISP BCI, at (208) 884-7141 or (208) 884-7159 to request a copy of each document be mailed to the organization.
2. Complete a Qualified Entity Application to BCI explaining what functions the organization performs that serves children, elderly, or disabled persons.
3. Review and sign the NCPA User Agreement that sets forth the terms and conditions under which criminal history background checks authorized by the NCPA of 1993, as amended, shall be conducted.
4. Submit both the NCPA Qualified Entity Application and the User Agreement to the BCI. (The BCI will retain the original signed User Agreement and Qualified Entity Application, and give a copy to the authorized entity) The BCI will review the application and contact the organization's designated representative to inform him or her whether the requirements are met.
Mail form(s) to:
ISP/BCI
700 S. Stratford Dr. Ste. 120
Meridian, ID 83642
Instructions To Obtain Criminal History Record Information
1. Submit a completed applicant fingerprint card supplied by the BCI. The fingerprint card must include the following items: signature, printed name, alias names (including maiden and previous married names), assigned code/number, current address, citizenship, descriptive data, date of birth, place of birth, and the required reason for being fingerprinted. The social security number is requested but not required. The official/person taking the fingerprints must sign and date the card. The date must be within 180 days of the fingerprint check submission.
Fingerprinting Services
Please see above for information on fingerprinting services. The fingerprint card will be given back to the applicant to take back to the requesting entity. The requesting entity is responsible for submitting the fingerprint(s) to our Bureau for processing.
2. Ensure that each employee completes and signs copy of the Waiver Agreement and Statement form. This form can be downloaded from our website, or the BCI will mail a copy of the Waiver and Statement form to the qualified entity. Each subject of a background check must sign this form. The signed Waiver Agreement and Statement allows the release of the state and national criminal history information to the qualified entity.
IMPORTANT: The original Waiver Agreement and Statement form must be retained by the Qualified Entity for as long as the employee or volunteer is working for the Qualified Entity, or for five years, whichever is longer. The Qualified Entity will be subject to audits by ISP, and could be chosen for a triennial FBI audit.3. Submit a $34.00 check or money order from the organization for each employee, OR a $32.50 check or money order for each volunteer. For other payment methods, please call 208-884-7141. Qualified entities will be billed for processed transactions on a monthly basis. If you have billing questions, please call (208) 884-7141.
After Submission of the Card, Form and Fee, the BCI will provide the following:
1. A notification that the individual as described on the fingerprint card does not have a criminal history record; or
2. A copy of the individual's criminal history record.Upon receipt of a background check report lacking disposition data, the requesting entity may conduct research in whatever State and local record keeping systems are available in order to obtain complete data. The following link contains County District Court Contacts:
Idaho Supreme Court Data Repository
County Contact Information
https://www.idcourts.us/repository/start.do
Timetable For Results of Criminal History Record Checks
The National Child Protection Act requires the BCI and the FBI to make a reasonable effort to return criminal history information to authorized entities within 15 business days. This does not include mail time. The BCI endeavors to process Idaho and FBI criminal history checks within 5-7 business days of receipt, excluding holidays and mail time, as long as the request is appropriate. The request may be hand delivered or mailed to the BCI. Please keep in mind, the BCI does not telephone, email or fax results. Delays in the process will occur if fingerprint card(s) received do not have all the required data, payment, or are rejected by the FBI because of poor image quality. The BCI will return the fingerprint card(s) to the requesting authorized entity along with a form explaining the reason for the rejection.
Rejected Fingerprint Cards
If the first fingerprint card submission is rejected because of poor image quality, fingers out of sequence or missing notations on amputations, etc., the BCI will mail the fingerprint card, along with a rejection form, back to the requesting entity. The entity will need to send in a new set of fingerprints, along with the attached rejected fingerprint card and The BCI Civil Applicant Response form. There is no charge for the reprint. If the reprint rejects, the submission of a third fingerprint card will be treated like a first time submission, and the fee will apply. BCI will automatically process a FBI name-based check after a second time rejection and mail the results to the requesting entity. The requesting entity will need to make the determination whether to accept the FBI name check results in lieu of a third fingerprint submission.
If you have questions please call Maria Wiley at (208) 884-7159 or
Jenny Schenck at (208) 884-7141.
Non-Criminal Justice Agency's (NCJA) Nationwide Check Privacy Right Information
In the Fall of 2010, the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact Council approved a motion for the FBI CJIS Division staff to create documents for agencies to inform civil applicants of their rights to challenge, update or correct their criminal history records. The requirements for NCJA's and Applicant's Rights are explained in the following documents.
Agency Requirements for NCJA Non-Criminal Justice Applicants Rights
Idaho will require the NCJAs to provide the NON-CRIMINAL JUSTICE APPLICANT (NCJA) PRIVACY STATEMENT to any applicant submitting for a fingerprint-based background check under an approved state statute, local ordinance or federal authority for licensure, employment or other civil purposes. Further, the agencies who request state and federal criminal history record information through fingerprint submission will be required to obtain the applicant's signature on the form and keep the original document on file for auditing purposes. The applicant should be given a copy of the form if requested. The documented is provided below. Agencies will need to insert their agency name and download the form.
NCJA APPLICANT PRIVACY STATEMENT
Electronic Fingerprint Submissions
We accept electronic civil fingerprint card submissions from agencies authorized to submit fingerprint cards for criminal history nationwide checks. If your agency would like to begin submitting electronic fingerprint cards, please contact:
Maria Wiley (208) 884-7159
maria.wiley@isp.idaho.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Idaho Criminal History Records Public?
Yes, under the provisions set out in Idaho Code 67-3008 the public may access Idaho criminal history information.Are juvenile criminal histories available?
No. Juvenile records are not included in the Idaho database. However, if a juvenile was adjudicated as an adult, the record of that event would be available.What is criminal history information?
The criminal history contains information based arrest data reported to BCI from Idaho criminal justice agencies. If an arrest fingerprint card is not submitted, the information on an arrest will not be present on an Idaho criminal history. In some instances, a record of arrest may be found at the local level, but not within the state criminal history. The Idaho criminal history database contains information on Idaho arrests only, and does not include other state's record, FBI records, or subjects convicted in federal court.What if the record has charges that do not belong to me?
All arrest events in the Idaho database are supported by fingerprints. If a person disputes the accuracy of the information obtained in a background check, the person may request a certified copy of his or her record by following the instructions in the Fingerprint Based Check. When challenging a record, the fingerprint based check is processed free of charge. After reviewing the record the individual may supply supplemental information from the arresting agency or court. All information provided will be reviewed and entered into the record if needed.Can a local law enforcement agency do a statewide criminal records check for the public?
No. Only BCI has the authorization to conduct a statewide record check for non-criminal justice licensure or employment screening purposes. A local law enforcement agency may do a check of its records only.How long will information stay on my criminal record?
Information remains in a criminal record indefinitely, unless a legal action has been taken by the court for complete removal of data.Will a charge that has been dismissed show on my record?
Yes. A charge that has been dismissed will continue to show on a record with the dismissal action also noted.
How do I obtain a concealed weapons permit in Idaho? Does Idaho recognize concealed weapons permits from other states? Find answers to these questions and more by selecting the Idaho Attorney General's link below.
Applicant Unit Contact Information
Maria Wiley
Applicant Unit Supervisor
maria.wiley@isp.idaho.gov
208.884.7159
Jenny Schenck
Technical Records Specialist II
jennifer.schenck@isp.idaho.gov
208.884.7141
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
Criminal History Information
The Idaho State Police, Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) maintains the state's central repository of criminal history information. The repository is an automated database of records based on fingerprint arrest records reported to BCI from Idaho criminal justice agencies. The information in the database is critical to effective decision-making at every phase of the criminal justice process. This information is available on-line to authorized criminal justice agencies. In addition, the criminal history system is increasingly used for non-criminal justice background checks, such as employment screening and licensure. The automated criminal history records may be searched by name or by fingerprints.
Expungement Process
Under the provisions set out in Idaho Code 67-3004(10), any person who was arrested or served a criminal summons and who subsequently was not charged by indictment or information within one (1) year of the arrest or summons and any person who was acquitted of all offenses arising from an arrest or criminal summons, may have the fingerprint and criminal history record taken in connection with the incident expunged pursuant to the person's written request directed to the department.
What is the process for expunging a charge from my criminal history record?
To take advantage of Idaho Code 67-3004(10), you need only provide arresting agency or court records showing compliance with the statute.
Expungement Flow Chart | Expungement Application
For other questions regarding expungement of records, you will need to contact an attorney or legal advisor.
Can charges from my criminal record be erased?
Yes, under the provisions set out in Idaho Code 67-3004(10), any person who was arrested or served a criminal summons and who subsequently was not charged by indictment or information within one (1) year of the arrest or summons and any person who was acquitted of all offenses arising from an arrest or criminal summons, may have the fingerprint and criminal history record taken in connection with the incident expunged pursuant to the person's written request directed to the department.
What is the process for expunging a charge from my criminal history record?
To take advantage of Idaho Code 67-3004(10), you need only provide arresting agency or court records showing compliance with the statute.
Expungement Flow Chart | Expungement Application
For other questions regarding expungement of records, you will need to contact an attorney or legal advisor.
I have been denied a firearm because of a record in the NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System). What do I do?
You will need to submit a request to appeal your denial decision by writing to:
Federal Bureau of Investigation
NICS Section Appeal Services Team, Module A-1
P.O. Box 4278
Clarksburg, WV 26302-9922
Customer Service: 1-877-444-NICS (6427)
Or via e-mail at: nicsappeals@leo.gov
Or via fax at: 1-304-625-0535
Will a charge that has been dismissed show on my record?
Yes. A charge that has been dismissed will continue to show on a record with the dismissal action also noted.
How long will information stay on my criminal record?
Information remains in a criminal record indefinitely, unless legal action has been taken by the court for complete removal of data.
Are juvenile criminal histories available?
No. Juvenile records are not included in the Idaho database. However, if a juvenile was adjudicated as an adult, the record of that event would be available.
What is criminal history information?
The criminal history contains information based arrest data reported to BCI from Idaho criminal justice agencies. Note: If an arrest fingerprint card is not submitted, the information on an arrest will not be present on an Idaho criminal history. In some instances, a record of arrest may be found at the local level, but not within the state criminal history. The Idaho criminal history database contains information on Idaho arrests only, and does not include other state's records, FBI records, or subjects convicted in federal court.
What if the record has charges that do not belong to me?
All arrest events in the Idaho database are supported by fingerprints. If a person disputes the accuracy of the information obtained in a background check, the person may request a certified copy of his or her record by following the instructions in the Fingerprint Based Check. When challenging a record, the fingerprint based check is processed free of charge. After reviewing the record the individual may supply supplemental information from the arresting agency or court. All information provided will be reviewed and entered into the record, if needed.
Can a local law enforcement agency do a statewide criminal records check for the public?
No. Only BCI has the authorization to conduct a statewide record check for non-criminal justice licensure or employment screening purposes. A local law enforcement agency may do a check of their records only.
Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)
AFIS is a powerful identification and crime-solving tool. Arrest fingerprints can be quickly searched against millions of prints in an automated file, and identification can be made from a list of candidates. AFIS also dramatically increases the efficiency of matching and identifying latent fingerprints. Idaho is a charter member of the Western Identification Network (WIN). This cooperative arrangement provides the capability to search fingerprint records in a centralized database created by Idaho, Alaska, Oregon, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Fingerprint records in California may also be searched through WIN.
Electronic Fingerprint Submissions
We accept electronic submissions of criminal arrest cards and authorized civil fingerprint cards. If your agency would like to begin submitting electronic fingerprint cards, please contact:
Kathy Blades
(208) 884-7134
kathy.blades@isp.idaho.gov
Palm Printing Procedures
For Information on palm printing procedures please visit the following link:
http://164.165.218.121/ilets/
(Your agency must have an ILETS connection)
Criminal History Unit Contact Information
Kathy Blades
Criminal History Unit Supervisor
kathy.blades@isp.idaho.gov
208.884.7134
208.884.7193 Fax
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
Central Sex Offender Registry
BCI maintains the central sex offender registry, which is distinct and separate from the criminal history record system. An offender subject to the law must register annually with a sheriff who forwards a fingerprint card and photograph to BCI. The registry is automated and available to criminal justice agencies in Idaho via ILETS and limited information is available to the public through this site.
Sex Offender Registry Contact Information
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7305
208.884.7193 Fax
Email: idsor@isp.idaho.gov
Missing Persons Clearinghouse
Missing Persons By Type
These links lead you to a definition of the category as well as details and photos of the specific cases belonging to a category:
DISABILITY RECORDS| CATASTROPHE RECORDS
ENDANGERED RECORDS | INVOLUNTARY RECORDS
JUVENILE RECORDS | OTHER RECORDS
The Idaho Missing Persons Clearinghouse was established in 1999 to provide a central location for resources to identify and assist state and national efforts to locate Idaho's missing. A missing person is someone whose whereabouts is unknown to a parent, caretaker or others who have normal contact with the person. A missing person can be a runaway child, anyone who has been involuntarily abducted or an Alzheimer's Patient. There is NO waiting period to report a person missing. As soon as you realize someone is unaccounted for, contact your local Police Department or Sheriff's Office as well as NCMEC (National Center for Missing or Exploited Children). The Clearinghouse maintains statistical data on Idaho's missing; develops and provides training to law enforcement on topics relevant to missing persons; creates and provides forms for law enforcement and members of the public to use; as well as maintaining available resources to assist during a missing person event. This section, consisting of a manager and one support staff, works closely with local law enforcement agencies in Idaho and other states. The section utilizes various databases and the general public in developing information, which may assist in locating missing children and adults from Idaho, as well as missing persons from other states who may be in Idaho. This section also performs analytical functions regarding missing and unidentified deceased persons. The section operates a 24-hour toll-free help line to receive messages regarding missing persons. The messages are processed during normal working hours.
Click on the Images below to retrieve information on Missing Persons outside of Idaho
ROBIN PUTNAM
Last Seen:
Salt Lake City, UT
Roles and Activities of Missing Person Clearinghouse
Maintain Database
The clearinghouse maintains a database of all Idaho missing persons. Statistics on missing persons in Idaho are provided upon request.
Verifies NCIC Entry
BCI staff verify the entry of Idaho missing persons into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) computer system by local law enforcement agencies. Clearinghouse staff also recommends that families of missing childern contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Childern to file a report.
Operates Toll-Free Hot-line The hot-line provides nationwide access.
BCI staff members answer the hot-line during normal business hours. After hours, weekends and holidays a message system answers calls. immediately. The hot-line was primarly established for supplemental reports and for reporting sightings of missing persons. However, calls range from requests for informational materials such as child fingerprint ID cards, to information about actual missing persons and details regarding the recovery. Information on leads or sightings is forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency for investigation.
State Link to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)
The clearinghouse networks with NCMEC, the 49 other state clearinghouses, Canada and telephone, and fax. This relationship ensures support between agencies when missing person reports lead investigations from one state or country to another. The relationship also insures that information from leads and sightings is sent to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Maintain Web Site
The clearinghouse is responsible for the information contained on this site about those missing and resources available. Idaho was one of the first states to develop a site for this purpose.
Create Flyers
Upon request from law enforcement agencies or families, Idaho missing persons clearinghouse staff creates flyers regarding specific cases. The clearinghouse publishes and distributes a quarterly bulletin which contains information about those missing in the state and other relevant information. Copies of the flyers are distributed to local law enforcement agencies within the state and to the missing persons clearinghouse counterparts in other states.
Maintain Material
The clearinghouse maintains a variety of information for both law enforcement and the public. Information from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children is available for all law enforcement agencies in the state. The clearinghouse retains a supply of brochures obtained from the NCMEC or put together by clearinghouse staff. These are available upon request to interested parties. A copy of the Kids and Company child safety curriculum for grades K-6 has been aquired from the NCMEC. This curriculum is available for distribution or loan to interested schools and law enforcement agencies.
Supply Fingerprint Cards
The clearinghouse also provides to the public child fingerprint ID cards. These are used to record the fingerprints and other important information about children and are given to the parents to keep in a safe place. These cards have been used to fingerprint children at local civic activities and have been featured in the department's booth at the Western Idaho State Fair.
Children - the source of our greatest joys and greatest concerns. We do everything we can think of to keep them safe, happy and healthy, yet bad things can still happen. The following are some tips to help parents help their child.
PREVENTION TIPS
- Keep a complete description of your child. The description should include color of hair, color of eyes, height, weight, and date of birth. In addition the description should include identifies such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, braces on teeth, pierced ears and other unique physical attributes. Having the location of scars, birth marks, and the like will aid law enforcement if your child is missing. Write the description down, keep it with your "Important Papers", and update every six months at minimum. If the child has a new injury that results in a scar, or any type of medical procedure, add it to the description immediately.
- Take color photographs of your child every six months. The photographs should be of high quality and in sharp focus so the child is easily recognizable. Head and should type portraits from different angles, like school photographs are wonderful. Make sure the photograph looks like your child, and is not a model's pose. Candid photographs may be more representative of how your child looks than posed shots. Home videos of the child are also extremely valuable. Close up shots of your child depict a living, breathing child and may help to identify specific mannerisms your child may have.
- Ask your Dentist to prepare dental charts and prints for your child. Have the dental chart updated each time an examination or dental work is performed and dental prints are taken once every two years until your child is 18. Make sure your dentist maintains up to date x-rays. If you move, ask for copy of the charts for your own files. Place the charts in your "Important Papers" so it is quickly and easily accessible. Consider taking a bite impression of your child's teeth. Take a two inch square of flat material like Styrofoam® and have your child bite partially through it. The bite should be strong enough to leave an impression of the upper and lower teeth. A new bite sample should be made each time your child loses or grows a tooth.
- Know where your child's medical records are located. Medical records like x-rays can be invaluable in helping to identify a recovered child. It is important to have all permanent scars, birthmarks, permanent blemishes, and broken bones recorded. Check with your doctor on where the child's records is stored and to access if necessary.
- Have your child fingerprinted by law enforcement. Law enforcement will give you the card after the child's prints are taken, and do not keep a copy.
- Consider preserving a DNA sample taken from your child. There are DNA kits available, but it is easy to make your own. The first "kit" is to take an old toothbrush that has been used exclusively by your child. Allow it to air dry and place it in a brown envelope, have the child lick the envelope shut and label with the child's name. The second "kit" requires rubber gloves, 2 cotton swabs and an envelope. Take the first swab and swab the area between where the lower right gum-line and cheek meet by twirling the swab and rubbing back and forth. Do this for 30 seconds. Allow the swab to air dry for 45 minutes. Repeat with the second swab. Place both dry swabs in the envelope, have the child lick the envelope shut and label with the child's name. Store envelopes in a secure, cool, dark, and dry location such as a safety deposit box. DNA samples stored in this manner should be good for up to six or seven years.
- Teach your child his/her full name, you (the parents) given names, address, and telephone number (including area code for long distance). Teaching your child basic identification information is crucial. If they become separated from you, knowing this information will bring them home quicker. Show your child how to dial 911 and to ask for help. Impress on them this is for emergencies only.
- Teach your child how to make a collect call, tell your child you will always accept collect calls and to call immediately should anything unusual occur, or if anyone tells the child that you are dead or don't love them anymore.
- Teach your child to scream "I DON'T KNOW YOU" if someone attempts to force your child to accompany them.
- Teach your child never to accept rides from anyone unless you the parent have given express permission to ride in a vehicle with that person.
- Teach your child to be wary of anyone asking them to go off alone together for any reason, for example, to find a lost puppy, etc.
- Teach your child to let you know immediately if another adult suggest keeping secrets from you, the parent.
- Teach your child that no one has the right to touch them or make them feel uncomfortable and it's okay to tell you. Even if the child has promised not to tell, they should know to tell an adult they trust.
- Teach your child safety practices on a daily basis. Teach your child to stay in groups. There is strength in numbers. Teach your child to walk and play with others after receiving your permission. Teach your child to stay on sidewalks or at least six feet from the street. Children should stay off the street, and never approach a vehicle no matter what the occupants say.
- Never leave your child alone in a car. A child (of any age) should not be left in a car alone for a minute, even in your own driveway. The child should remain with you at all times.
- Know your child's friends. Keep a written list of your child's friends, including the child's name, their parent's names, addresses and phone numbers. Know who your child rides the school bus with, walks with to and from school, and plays with at recess.
The "NO" list
- Teach you child to say no to entering another person's car or home without your express permission, even if the person is known to them.
- Teach your child to say no to accepting gifts from strangers or acquaintances without your permission.
- Teach you child to say no to answering the telephone or door when home alone.
- Teach your child to say no to telling anyone who asks where they live or giving their telephone number to someone they do not know.
The "KNOW" list
- Know the addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, passport numbers and birthdays of all relatives and friends of the non-custodial parent.
- Know who your child's friends are, and where they live as well as the phone numbers where the friend's parents can be reached.
- Know your child's current weight and height.
- Know where your important information is securely stored. It should be in two separate, secure locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long must I wait to report a Missing person?
THERE IS NO WAITING PERIOD TO REPORT A MISSING PERSON.
What do I do if local law enforcement won't take a missing report (or enter the Missing person into NCIC National Crime Information Center)?
Contact the officer that took the initial report to inquire why the report has not been entered in NCIC. Listen to what the officer advises you, as there may be other issues involved. This agency may not be the agency of jurisdiction where the child was at the time it become missing. You may not be the custodial parent. You may not have a valid custody document and/or parenting plan. If you have custody documents you need to present them to the officer. If you called the agency, you may have spoken to a call taker or communication officer who took a missing report and an investigator may or may not been assigned to your case. Write down the responses you are given for further follow-up.
Why would law enforcement not activate an AMBER Alert for my missing child?
AMBER Alerts are specialized tools used for specific missing children cases. Idaho has 6 criteria that must be met before law enforcement can issue and Alert, and the law enforcement has other tools to search for other types of missing children. Please see the AMBER Alert page for the 6 criteria and other information about AMBER Alerts in Idaho.
Who is responsible to activate an AMBER Alert?
It the responsibility of the investigating law enforcement to activate an AMBER Alert. All AMBER Alerts in Idaho are issued statewide. Please see the AMBER Alert page for more information on these Alerts.
What should I do if I suspect a possible missing person or exploitation in my neighborhood?
Do not confront the person(s) yourself. Contact your local law enforcement immediately and provide them with as much information as possible relating to names of the individuals, the length of time they have been in the neighborhood, vehicle information, and why you believe the police should be involved.
What should I do if I suspect a person on an Internet chat room is attempting to entice a child away from their home?
Obtain as much information as possible on the person who is attempting to entice the child, including the person's e-mail address, the time of day, what chat room was involved, any information on the meeting place and if possible, which Internet provider controls the chat room. Contact your local law enforcement immediately.
What should I do if I suspect a person is sending sexually explicit photographs involving children or discover an Internet web site containing sexually explicit photographs of children?
Record the Internet web site address and the person's e-mail address that is sending the materials. Contact you local law enforcement immediately.
What should I do if I suspect a future problem with a family-related abduction?
Ensure that your custody order specifies with whom the child is to reside at specific times and restricts removal from the state without prior consent from the judge. Flag the child's passport if one exists, or ask passport control not to issue one if one is requested. Also contact the State Registrar in the state where the child was born and ask that a flag be placed on the child's birth certificate. This flag will activate if a request is made for a copy of child's birth certificate or if any requests for information on the child's birth certificate is requested. Notify schools, day care centers and baby sitters of the custody orders. Give them copies and ask to be alerted if the non-custodial parent makes an unscheduled visit to the facility.
If the non-custodial parent lives in another county, state or country, file a certified copy of the custody decree there. This will notify the court in that jurisdiction that a valid decree has already been issued and must be honored. Also consider filing a copy of the decree in any foreign countries in which the non-custodial parent has close friends or relatives.
Forms for Law Enforcement
CHECK SHEET TO REPORT A MISSING PERSON
HELPING UNSUPERVISED AND RUNAWAY CHILDREN: Investigative Checklist for Law Enforcement
Guides and Resources
8 RULES FOR SAFETY | 8 REGLAS PARA LA SEGURIDAD
GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS | GUIA PARA PADRES Y TUTORES
RESOURCES FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS | CHILD MISSING FROM CARE: LAW ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE
Missing Persons Clearinghouse Contact Information
Leila McNeill
BCI Operations Officer
leila.mcneill@isp.idaho.gov
208.884.7133
208.884.7193 Fax
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
Uniform Crime Reporting Program
The Idaho Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program participates in a nationwide statistical collaboration designed to collect accurate crime data from all law enforcement agencies in a "uniform" manner. This program is managed by the Idaho State Police, Bureau of Criminal Identification. Idaho was one of the first seven states to report UCR data under the National Incident Based Reporting Systems, known as "NIBRS." All Idaho law enforcement agencies participating in the UCR program submit their crime data under the NIBRS guidelines. Reporting definitions, rules, and guidelines are based on the Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook, NIBRS Edition, provided by the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation. The statistics collected are used to annually produce the "Crime in Idaho" publication. The program's primary objective is to provide a valuable tool to assist law enforcement in determining their priorities in the fight against crime. Secondarily, the program serves as a vital resource to the criminal justice and non-criminal justice communities as to the nature of the crime in Idaho.
Statistical crime information based on data submitted by Idaho law enforcement agencies.
IBR Submission Options
Idaho was one of the first seven states to participate in the National Incident Based Reporting systems (NIBRS), a crime data reporting method under the National Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. Due to the vision and dedication from the participating law enforcement agencies throughout our state, Idaho's crime reporting success and leadership is nationally recognized. The statewide collection and reporting of Idaho IBR data is mandated by Idaho Code 67-3006 and managed by the Idaho State Police, Bureau of Criminal Identification, Special Programs Unit. There are two IBR submission options available to Idaho law enforcement agencies.
NIBRS DIRECT Submission
Access to the NIBRS DIRECT enables an agency to enter IBR crime data on-line 24 hours a day. This option is limited to entering only IBR crime codes and does not provide an agency with an in-house records management system.
Agency/Vendor Submission
This option allows a reporting agency to extract and submit IBR crime reports from its in-house records management system. A IBR data file is created from the agency's system and submitted on diskette or by e-mail to Special Programs Unit located in the Bureau of Criminal Identification. Each data file is examined for errors and downloaded into the statewide IBR repository. In order to ensure reporting compliance, data quality, and prevent invalid or corrupted crime data submissions, the agency is required to obtain agency/vendor IBR approval.
Outline of Agency/Vendor IBR Approval
- Idaho UCR/IBR Requirements: compliance with all NIBRS submission rules and regulations
- complete all testing levels from agency in-house system
- maintain crime submission error rate below 3%
- obtain approved data quality review
- Submission Requirements:
- method: IBR only
- specifications & collection guidelines used by the FBI
- state required download format
- all data elements mandatory and optional by FBI guidelines
- submit data file by diskette or e-mail
- collect data on a monthly basis
- Testing Elements:
- programming format and reporting levels
- data layout and positions
- submission of single and multiple crime incidents
- offense/arrest/clearance submissions
- supplemental reporting (submitting updated information)
- unfounded reporting
- Quality Review Elements:
- agency in-house coding for IBR output
- crime analysis
- report interpretation and sensibility
- crime comparison and trends
- level of useful data crime fluctuations
- Upgrade Approval Requirements:
- notification by reporting agency of upgrade BEFORE data submission
- maintain crime submission error rate below 3%
- obtain approved data quality review
The Special Programs Unit, located in the Bureau of Criminal Identification, provides a list of approved vendors currently being used within our state. When choosing an option, the following factors may help you determine which option is best for your agency:
- NIBRS DIRECT option
- access to ILETS terminal
- data entry staff
- Agency/Vendor option
- IBR approval status in Idaho
- easy to use
- vendor training available
- data entry tasked to records personnel or officers
- cost for technical support and upgrades
- level of built-in IBR edits (checking for errors)
- consider other agency references
- generates output reports
- searchability
- If a vendor is NOT already approved in Idaho, also consider:
- agency reporting method until system is certified
- available time and personnel an agency has to test new system
LAW OFFICERS ASSAULTED & KILLED REPORTING FORM
This form is used to report the number of law enforcement officers killed or assaulted in the line of duty. Partisipating law enforcement agencies are to submit this form on a monthly basis to the Special Programs Unit of the Idaho State Police, Bureau of Criminal Identification
Uniform Crime Reporting Contact Information
Pennie Blamires
Crime Data Reporting Analyst
pennie.blamires@isp.idaho.gov
208.884.7156
208.884.7193 Fax
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
Audit and Training
Idaho Public Safety and Security Information System (ILETS) Audit and Training
ILETS is a dedicated data communication network that links local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies to state records and files and to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), which includes criminal history data and wanted and missing persons, orders of protection and property files. US and Canadian motor vehicle and driver's license files are also available through the system. To ensure system integrity, security and prevent misuse, the section provides training and conducts compliance audits on all agencies with access to data obtained from ILETS.
Audit and Training Contact Information
Susan Broemeling
Auditing and Training Supervisor
susan.broemeling@isp.idaho.gov
208.884.7272
208.884.7193 Fax
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
FINGERPRINTING AND BACKGROUND CHECKS
Name Based Background Check Form
Fingerprint Based Background Check Form
Retired Law Enforcement CWP Form
CRIMINAL HISTORY AND AFIS
Expungement Application | Expungement Flow Chart
MISSING PERSONS CLEARINGHOUSE
UNIFORM CRIME REPORTING
Law Officers Assaulted and Killed Reporting Form
Contact Information
700 S Stratford Dr Ste 120
Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7130
208.884.7193 Fax
Idaho State Police Headquarters
700 S. Stratford Drive, Meridian, ID 83642
208.884.7000
