Identification Segment vs. Full CHRI

Criminal history information consists of two parts: an initial identification segment and a full criminal history record.  The identification segment consists of identifiable descriptions of individuals who have records maintained in the criminal history database.  The identification segment includes names, dates of birth, social security numbers, other identifiers and lists the state identification number or FBI number assigned to that individual.  An agency may receive multiple identification segments in response to a single CHRI query. 

Once an agency has identified that the subject in question does have criminal history record information maintained in the database, a second query is made by state identification number or FBI number to retrieve the complete criminal history record.  The full record CHRI consists of notations of arrest, detentions, indictments, information, or other formal criminal charges and any disposition arising there from, sentencing, correctional supervision and release.  The full Wisconsin CHRI record consists of all identifiers contained within the identification segment and the full record segment.

CHRI should not be routinely maintained in case files, unless the CHRI is a key element for the integrity/utility of the case file. Such files could be subject to release under the open records law.  In addition, criminal history records are routinely updated and the version contained in the file may no longer be accurate/up to date.  Agencies should destroy criminal history records once they have served their purpose, and request a new criminal history printout when needed.