System Integration: A Brief Overview
System integration is the idea of multiple users being able to access a common collection of data. In regards to the criminal justice system, system integration has evolved into a critical factor in law enforcement, the court system, the corrections system, and in overall public safety. It provides a network for various agencies to access data, documents, records, and other critical information quickly and efficiently. Within the court system, information exchange can impact decision points such as setting bail. Within the corrections system, fingerprints, mug shots, and tattoo/scar photos collected from offenders are submitted into a common database (IAFIS). Regarding public safety, system integration affects monitoring of firearms sales, child protective services, criminal background checks, and a wide range of other services and safety related activity. In law enforcement, system integration directly influences evidence collection, crime scene processing, arrests, and, as discussed below, ballistic identification. Overall, system integration affects nearly every aspect of the criminal justice system.
System Integration and Ballistics
The concept of integrated systems primarily applies to ballistics through both the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) and the Integrated Ballistic Information System (IBIS). The NIBIN allows law enforcement agencies across the country to both submit and access information collected on bullets, cartridge casings, and firearms. The system allows law enforcement officials to identify patterns and match bullets/cartridge casings to weapons used in crimes, often assisting in arrest and conviction of criminals. Similarly, the IBIS system also allows for submission and collection of common data, but also incorporates the forensic and analytical portions of ballistics as well.
