For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
(573) 526-6115

Q8071
August 1, 2007
EMPHASIS: Criminal Records And Identification Division

Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to highlight the Criminal Records and Identification Division. The Criminal Records and Identification Division takes seriously its responsibility to provide outstanding service to the citizens of Missouri. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has provided a repository for maintaining and disseminating fingerprints and criminal record information since 1934.

This information is submitted by contributing law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, courts, and the Missouri Department of Corrections, etc. The Criminal Records and Identification Division also has the responsibility of disseminating the Missouri Charge Code Manual, maintaining the Sex Offender Registry, training criminal justice agencies, and gathering state crime statistics.

The Toll-Free Missouri Sex Offender Hotline has received over 1,200 calls since its inception on September 1, 2006. Criminal Records and Identification employees are available to answer questions regarding information contained on Missouri’s Sex Offender Registry Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The toll free number is 1-888-767-6747. In addition to the hotline, numerous emails are received and processed daily from concerned citizens regarding issues or questions about the registry and those listed.

In November 2006, the latest updated version of the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) was put into place. One of the key features allows the system to perform certain tasks that previously were performed manually by technicians. This feature has significantly decreased the response time on fingerprint inquiries, resulting in a more timely response back to those on the front line of law enforcement. Latent technicians have made more than 500 latent print identifications within the last year. These identifications have assisted law enforcement with crime solving and personal identifications throughout the state.

Currently, access to the public for criminal record background checks is being improved. The Criminal Records and Identification Division recognizes an increased need for background checks--there are 50 to 75 people per day who come in person to obtain their checks. To continue providing the level of service expected from the Patrol, and to handle the increase in daily traffic, a new lobby and parking area are being constructed. The new lobby will include a larger seating area, and is expected to be open in late August 2007.

In the near future, the ability to request a Criminal History Record Check utilizing the Internet will become a reality. Any check that has “no record” will be returned to the requesting party electronically. This will reduce greatly the turnaround time for name only record checks. This feature will require online payment and will reduce the accounting time required for these transactions.

The Criminal Records and Identification Division has partnered with Integrated Biometric Technologies to provide the public with Missouri Applicant Processing Services (MOAPS). This service allows the electronic submission of fingerprints directly to the division for the processing of non-criminal background check requests. This has greatly reduced the turnaround time for these background checks.

“The employees of the Criminal Records and Identification Division consistently have met an increasing demand for their services,” said Colonel Keathley. “I am proud of their dedication and their timely, efficient response to requests for criminal history information or background checks. The Patrol remains committed to seeking technological advances that retain or increase integrity, reliability, and accountability in this area.”

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