The Records and Identification Unit is the central repository for all Iowa criminal history records and is responsible for maintaining and tracking all criminal history record information in Iowa
This information is used in a variety of critical areas, including sentencing determination, parole and probation recommendations, issuance of weapon permits, and decisions by prosecutors. Noncriminal justice agencies also use criminal history record information for background checks on a daily basis, including day care centers, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, etc.
All criminal history records in Iowa begin with a fingerprint card. If no fingerprints are taken and submitted to the DCI, there will not be a criminal history record on the subject for a particular arrest or taking into custody in the case of a juvenile. Criminal history records contain information regarding arrest, court dispositions, custody data and movement within Iowa’s correctional institutions.
The Records and Identification Unit includes three Criminal History Auditors, each responsible for conducting quality assurance reviews and providing training in 33 counties throughout the State.
The Criminal History Auditors facilitate training for law enforcement agencies, county attorneys and clerks of court to ensure criminal history information is submitted to the Department of Public Safety in accordance with the Code of Iowa. This includes confirming information is submitted in a timely, accurate and complete fashion through established audit practices.
Why are dispositions important?
- Dispositions ensure the availability of the most current information regarding an individual’s criminal history record.
- Dispositions are used for criminal justice purposes – law enforcement, courts, probation offices, sentencing, firearm checks, etc.
- Used for noncriminal justice purposes – employment, licensing security clearances, facility access, visa applications, etc.
Iowa Criminal History Statistics:
787,153 – total number of automated records in the Iowa computerized criminal history database
10,237 – total number of felony arrests that were reported during calendar year 2018