This is the 4th installment of our 5 part series on 28-CFR

As we continue our series on the requirements of 28 CFR, we will now discuss access to information and training requirements for any authorized users.

As you know, access to gang databases is restricted to law enforcement officers only and other authorized personnel directly involved in gang-related investigations or intelligence analysis. Those authorized personnel should have undergone background checks and have been granted appropriate security clearances. Officers and personnel granted access to the gang database should undergo specialized training to ensure they understand the database’s proper use, relevant laws, and the importance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date information. Maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the data is crucial. Each law enforcement agency must have policies in place to regularly review and update the information to prevent errors and misidentification.

Given the sensitive nature of the information collected in gang databases, there are concerns about privacy and due process rights. To address these concerns, some jurisdictions have established protocols for individuals to challenge their inclusion in the database or to correct any erroneous information. The Federal law of 28 CFR states data can be retained in the gang database for 5 years as long as the information is accurate and recent.

There should also be protocols set up for sharing information from gang databases with other law enforcement agencies or relevant authorities. It’s important to note that practices and policies related to gang databases can vary significantly based on the country, state, or city where they are implemented. These systems can also raise concerns about potential biases and civil liberties, so proper oversight and accountability are essential components to manage. It is best to refer to your local policies, and official law enforcement resources for specific directions.

As stated above, the training requirements for personnel with access to gang database information can vary depending on your specific law enforcement agency, jurisdiction, and policies. However, here is an overview of some common training requirements:

1. Database Familiarization: Personnel with access to the gang database typically receive training to familiarize themselves with the structure, functions, and features of the database. This training ensures that they can efficiently navigate the system and retrieve relevant information.
2. Legal and Policy Training: Officers are educated on the laws, regulations, and policies governing the use of the gang database. This training emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal guidelines, respecting privacy rights, and understanding the consequences of misuse or unauthorized access.
3. Information Accuracy and Entry: Training should cover the process of entering and updating information in the gang database. Officers are taught the significance of accurate data entry to prevent errors, misinformation, or misidentification.
4. Data Retention and Purging: Personnel are trained on the retention and purging policies of the gang database. They learn about the duration for which data can be stored and the procedures for removing outdated or irrelevant information.
5. Privacy and Due Process: Officers with access to the gang database should receive training on privacy laws and the due process rights of individuals included in the database. This training is essential to ensure that personal information is handled with appropriate sensitivity.
6. Bias and Profiling Awareness: Some jurisdictions include training on recognizing and mitigating potential biases in gang database information. This training helps ensure that officers do not engage in profiling based on race, ethnicity, or other protected groups.
7. Information Sharing Protocols: If the gang database allows for information sharing with other agencies, personnel should receive training on the proper protocols for sharing data and ensuring that it is done securely and lawfully.
8. Periodic Updates: As gang-related laws, policies, and personnel with access to the gang database change, staff may be required to undergo periodic refresher training to stay up-to-date with any modifications or new guidelines.

The Gangscope, or Intelscope, database is so crucial to have because it alerts you to needed purging of files, and we are always willing to assist with training for users.

The GangScope Team

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GangScope™ is an intelligence database that helps capture, analyze, search and share intelligence on criminals, gangs, and more. GangScope acts as a first-tier, internal database that manages data on known and suspected criminals and gang members. Intelligence is collected per incident and can include qualifiers, associates, acquaintances (points of contact), witnesses, images, and documents. GangScope’s collection of detailed information aids in investigations, analysis and ultimately solving crime. The software complies with standards outlined by federal (28 CFR) policies. While complying with standards, GangScope™ boasts usability through simple yet extensive data mining via search, reports, profiles, and watches.

The overall goal of GangScope™ is to provide law enforcement personnel/ crime analysts/ correctional officers/prosecutors with maximum data through a friendly user interface while remaining cost-effective.  

A non-gang version – IntelScope is also available if needed.

To learn more or to schedule a full demo of our system – request a demo here. We would welcome the opportunity to show you how Gangscope can help your department organize and store your data in a secure and compliant way.