What Information Do Police Get When They Run Your Name?
When a police officer asks for your identification, you may wonder what information they can access when they "run your name" in their database. What records do they check? Is it just your driving records or criminal history? Or is it something more?
What Happens When Police Run Your Name?
When a police officer requests to "run your name," they typically perform a search of your records to gather information about your identity, criminal history, and any other relevant information that may be stored in databases. This process is commonly referred to as a National Crime Information Center (NCIC) check. The NCIC is a national database that stores information on wanted persons, stolen property, and other law enforcement-related data.
Here’s what typically happens during a name check:
• The police officer types in your name, birthdate, and other identifying information into their computer terminal or mobile device.
• The system searches for a match in the NCIC database, which contains millions of records from various sources, including:
- Arrest records
- Booking information
- Police reports
- 911 calls
- Driver’s license information
- Vehicle registration
- Criminal warrants
What Information Does the Police Receive When They Run Your Name?
The information obtained through a name check can vary depending on the database accessed and the specific criteria entered. Here’s a general idea of what the police might discover:
Identity Information:
- Full Name: First, middle, and last name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number (if reported missing or stolen)
- Driver’s License Information: License number, state issued, and expiration date
Criminal History:
- Arrests: List of prior arrests, including dates and charges
- Criminal Convictions: Previous convictions, including offense and sentence
- Criminal Warrants: Active warrants for your arrest, including the offense and arresting agency
Vehicles and Licenses:
- Vehicle Registrations: List of registered vehicles, including make, model, and license plate numbers
- Driver’s License Status: Information about your driver’s license status, including suspensions, revocations, and expires dates
Additional Records:
- Protection Orders: Information about outstanding protection orders, including court dates and restraining orders
- Missing Persons Reports: Reports of you as a missing person (if applicable)
- Known Associates: Information about your known associates, including name, address, and telephone number
Is a Name Check Mandatory?
In most cases, police officers are not required by law to run your name unless there is a reasonable suspicion or probable cause for doing so. However, there are some circumstances where a name check is mandatory, such as:
• Traffic Stops: In some jurisdictions, officers may be required to check for outstanding warrants or fines before issuing a traffic ticket or releasing a driver after a stop.
• Court-Ordered Checks: Law enforcement may be ordered to conduct a name check by a judge or prosecutor in connection with a court case.
Conclusion
A name check is a standard procedure for law enforcement when investigating a crime, issuing a traffic ticket, or conducting a routine inquiry. While the information gathered is typically limited to the categories mentioned above, the purpose of the check is to verify your identity, locate you, and ensure public safety. It is essential to understand that this information is typically shared only within law enforcement agencies and that the police are restricted by laws and regulations governing their access to and sharing of personal data.
By educating yourself on what happens during a name check, you can better understand the purposes and limitations of this police procedure.
