Which code will be retained in the NCIC Article File indefinitely?

The NCIC Article File contains records of items that are stolen, lost, or otherwise significant to law enforcement. Certain codes are designated to identify the nature of the articles. The codes that will be retained indefinitely in the NCIC Article File include those that fall under the categories of Q, T, or Z.

These specific code designations are meant for items that are of high importance for law enforcement tracking and retrieval, ensuring that they remain accessible for future reference, investigation, or legal purposes. Retaining these codes indefinitely extends the ability for law enforcement agencies to collaborate and share information about critical items, potentially aiding in solving cases or recovering stolen property long after the initial report.

The other codes, while they may be relevant to tracking certain articles, do not have the same indefinite retention requirement as the Q, T, or Z designations in the NCIC database.