The NCIC Criteria For Missing Persons

When to file a missing person report.

The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) keeps records for missing adults and children. Missing person files stay on file indefinitely or until the missing person is found. The agency filing a missing person report can cancel the NCIC record.

Background

The NCIC missing person file began in 1975. It maintains a close relationship with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the National Center for Missing Adults (NCMA).

Basic Criteria

The NCIC missing person files includes files on missing persons with a proven mental or physical disability, as well as people who go missing following a catastrophic event, and people who go missing under conditions that indicate they may be in physical danger. Anyone who disappears involuntarily may be reported as a missing person.

Special Criteria

Anyone under 21 years of age, who does not meet the basic criteria is considered a missing juvenile. Persons 21 and older considered to live in unsafe surroundings may be reported to NCIC as missing.

References

• The National Center for Missing Adults: They Are Missed
• Missing Kids: Guidelines In Case Your Child Might Someday be Missing
• Doe Network: Criteria For Case Files
• Department of Justice: NCIC Initial Entry Report

Resources

• DSS.MO.gov: Missing Person or Runaway Report Procedures