What is III [Triple-Eye]? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

The Interstate Identification Index (III), also known as Triple-Eye, is a system managed by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It serves as a national database that compiles criminal histories of individuals who have been arrested or indicted for serious offenses across the United States. This system allows authorized users, such as law enforcement agencies, to access specific criminal records by searching the index.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A police officer conducting a traffic stop can use the III to check if the driver has any prior arrests or convictions, which may influence their approach to the situation.

Example 2: An employer may request a background check through the III when hiring a candidate for a position that requires a clean criminal record. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Access Regulations
California Access is restricted to law enforcement agencies.
Texas Employers can access certain criminal history records under specific conditions.
New York Background checks are regulated, requiring consent from the individual.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Differences
National Crime Information Center (NCIC) A database of criminal justice information, including stolen property and missing persons. NCIC includes more categories of information beyond criminal histories.
Criminal Background Check A process to identify any criminal records associated with an individual. Background checks may not always access the III directly, depending on the provider.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need to access your criminal history or that of another individual, you can request this information through the appropriate law enforcement agency in your state. For employers or individuals conducting background checks, consider using legal templates available through US Legal Forms to ensure compliance with applicable laws. If you encounter complex issues, seeking professional legal advice may be necessary.

Quick facts

  • Jurisdiction: United States
  • Access: Limited to law enforcement and authorized personnel
  • Purpose: To compile criminal histories for investigations
  • Data Type: Criminal records of serious offenses

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Only authorized law enforcement personnel and certain government agencies can access the III.