The Western Identification Network: a multi-state fingerprint identification system
enters them into AFIS. This means that within thirty minutes of processing the subject, his fingerprints are searchable in AFIS, and a computerized criminal history record of the arrest is established.
The man posts bail and immediately heads to a gun store. Any federally licensed dealer selling firearms in Oregon must perform a criminal history check over the phone and must also capture the buyer’s thumbprints on the necessary paperwork. In this case, because the domestic violence arrest was already established on the man’s criminal history, the gun sale was denied. “One can only imagine the violence that was prevented because of information available via WIN,” Keefer writes.
Mike Heintzman, Operations Manager for the Identification Services Section of the Oregon State Police, believes the investigative value of searchable fingerprints is immeasurable. “Whether it’s after a routine arrest or as part of a latent print search during a criminal investigation, being able to search a large portion of the western states is extremely helpful. Thanks to the WIN network and Nlets support, Oregon and the other WIN states, can safely and easily share fingerprints,” he told Keefer. Steve Correll, Executive Director for Nlets, has a similar opinion of the significance of WIN. “I’ve worked in law enforcement, and now, as part of Nlets, I work for law enforcement, to make sure our network can provide the right information to the right person at the right time. What WIN offers is essential access to highly important information, which is exactly what Nlets aims to provide to the states.”
Future growth
In a world of rapidly expanding technology, the distance between officers on the street and the information they need is ever increasing. Ken Bischoff, CEO of WIN, told Keefer in an e-mail that “As WIN and Nlets expand their capabilities, I think there will be limitless opportunities to broaden the reach of AFIS, as well as the method through which law enforcement can access it.” The potential for states to use mobile fingerprint devices and a more robust network brings with it the promise of officers armed with better data, which, in turn, means safer communities.
The Portland Police Forensic Evidence Division is currently using its Interstate Identification Index System (III System) and WIN to take fingerprint identification to the streets. Using handheld, portable scanning units, officers who have already legally detained a suspect for a criminal act can take fingerprints in the field for quick identification via AFIS. Chris Wormdahl, Portland Police technology coordinator, is amazed at how times have changed. “Suspect identification is happening faster and faster — we’re not rolling ink anymore,” he told Keefer. “Organizations like WIN and the connections they provide are allowing us to fully utilize technology such as these scanning units to arm officers with the information they need.” These devices, coupled with WIN’s services, are leading the way in the future of law enforcement.
Keefer notes that both WIN and Nlets have the same mission: to assist law enforcement agencies with their information needs. Terry O’Connell, director of Oregon’s Law Enforcement Data System, said, “Consortiums such as WIN and Nlets are excellent examples of how states can pool resources to provide a common criminal justice information solution. The ultimate end user — the cop on the street — benefits tremendously from these behind-the-scenes partnerships,” O’Connell told her.
