Which entity has the authority to access restricted information within ACJIS?

The authority to access restricted information within the Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) is limited to criminal justice agencies and authorized personnel. This designation is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data, which often includes criminal records, personal information, and operational details that could impact public safety and individual privacy.

Criminal justice agencies, such as police departments, courts, and correctional facilities, have a legitimate need to access this information to perform their legal duties, such as investigating crimes, prosecuting offenders, and managing probation or parole processes. Authorized personnel within these agencies are trained to handle this information responsibly and are often subject to strict legal and ethical standards that govern its use.

In contrast, other groups such as citizens, researchers, and local news agencies do not have the same level of authorization. Citizens generally do not have free access to sensitive information, as this could lead to potential misuse or invasion of privacy. Researchers may require access to certain data for studies, but they must typically go through a formal application process and ensure they have appropriate permissions and safeguards in place. Local news agencies may seek information through public records requests, but this does not extend to restricted information found within ACJIS, which is protected to uphold privacy and security.