Question

When an inquiry on an individual or property yields a hit, the terminal-produced printout showing the inquiry and the record(s) on file should be:

a) Immediately shredded
b) Filed for future reference
c) Discarded if not needed
d) Submitted to the court

Answer 1

The terminal-produced printout from an inquiry that yields a hit should be filed for future reference, adhering to the organization's policies and relevant regulations. This ensures legal compliance and the preservation of privacy rights.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an inquiry on an individual or property yields a hit, the terminal-produced printout showing the inquiry and the record(s) on file should not be immediately shredded, discarded if not needed, or necessarily submitted to the court. The correct procedure often depends on the policy of the organization conducting the inquiry. For legal and audit purposes, it may be necessary to file for future reference to ensure a proper record is kept. These records may be stored as hardcopy or electronically, as shown in FIGURE 2.10, and should be handled according to confidentiality and privacy regulations relevant to the jurisdiction in which the inquiry occurs.

Whether the records are managed in paper files or via a computer system, ensuring the security and proper handling of these documents is paramount to uphold the integrity of the inquiry process and the privacy rights of individuals. Archival research and proper documentation practices are fundamental to many fields, including but not limited to law enforcement, legal compliance, and administration.