In missing child investigations, what term describes a provisional NCIC entry used when full information is not yet available?

Study for the DPS Law Enforcement Officer’s Certification Examination. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In missing child investigations, what term describes a provisional NCIC entry used when full information is not yet available?

Explanation:
A ghost entry is the provisional NCIC record created when full information isn’t yet available. This lets law enforcement quickly establish a missing-child case in the national database so it can be shared and updated as details—like last known location, description, or case facts—come in. It stays internal to NCIC and can be upgraded to a full record once complete information is confirmed. Amber Alert is a public notification program for abducted children, not the internal provisional NCIC entry. The other terms aren’t used to describe this NCIC mechanism.

A ghost entry is the provisional NCIC record created when full information isn’t yet available. This lets law enforcement quickly establish a missing-child case in the national database so it can be shared and updated as details—like last known location, description, or case facts—come in. It stays internal to NCIC and can be upgraded to a full record once complete information is confirmed. Amber Alert is a public notification program for abducted children, not the internal provisional NCIC entry. The other terms aren’t used to describe this NCIC mechanism.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy