February 10

February 10, 2006: New Crime Database To Help Beat Crime

A new database will allow police to track and trace information about individuals wanted as part of criminal investigations. The Impact Nominal Index (INI), which was officially launched yesterday, is already proving an invaluable tool against crime. The database enables the police to find out instantly whether any other force holds information about their suspect. In the past this information would not have been visible outside of the relevant force holding the records.

The INI is the first system to be delivered as part of the IMPACT Programme. IMPACT was established to implement some of the recommendations outlined in the Bichard report following the murders of Soham schoolgirls Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells. Commenting on the INI, Home Office minister Hazel Blears said:

'The ability to share information across police force boundaries is the key to effective policing at the national level. The INI is the first step in our plans to provide a national information sharing capability which will prevent criminals from escaping detection simply by crossing force boundaries. This will increase public protection and help create safer communities.'

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