Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) Practice Exam

Why is it important to log secondary dissemination of Criminal History?

1. To provide a tracking history

2. To enhance data visibility

3. To assist in staff performance evaluations

4. To eliminate the need for audits

The correct answer is: To provide a tracking history

Logging secondary dissemination of Criminal History is crucial primarily to provide a tracking history. This practice ensures that there is a documented trail of who accessed criminal history information, when it was accessed, and for what purpose. This transparency is essential in maintaining accountability and integrity within the criminal justice system. Additionally, it helps to monitor compliance with laws and regulations governing the use and sharing of sensitive criminal history data. By having a clear record of secondary dissemination, agencies can better protect individuals' privacy, verify the appropriate use of the information, and respond effectively to any inquiries or concerns about the handling of such data. While data visibility, staff performance evaluations, and the need for audits are important in their own right, they do not supplant the fundamental reason for logging secondary dissemination, which is to create a reliable and accessible tracking history of the information's use.