Who should Criminal History Records (CQH) be shared with?

Criminal History Records (CQH) are sensitive documents that contain an individual's criminal history, including arrests, charges, and convictions. The purpose of sharing these records is often tied to the enforcement of laws and public safety.

Sharing CQH with other law enforcement agencies is essential because these entities rely on accurate and timely information to carry out their responsibilities, such as investigating crimes, making arrests, and ensuring the justice process runs smoothly. Communication and cooperation among law enforcement agencies help prevent crime, facilitate investigations, and ultimately ensure public safety. Access to this information for law enforcement officers promotes a more informed and effective response to criminal activities.

The other options, such as sharing with the general public, media outlets, or civilian job applicants, raise privacy and legal concerns. Criminal history records should not be accessible to just anyone, as inappropriate disclosure can lead to potential misuse of the information, discrimination, or unjust harm to an individual's reputation. Therefore, the sharing of these sensitive records is restricted primarily to those within law enforcement to ensure accountability and proper handling of information.