The Importance of a National Missing Persons Database
In recent years, there has been growing concern around the number of missing persons in the United States. According to the National Crime Information Center, over 609,000 individuals were reported missing in 2020 alone. While most of these cases are resolved quickly, around 90,000 are still active and remain unsolved. This is where the importance of a national missing persons database comes in.
What is a National Missing Persons Database?
A national missing persons database is a centralized system that collects and stores information on missing individuals from across the country. The data collected includes the individual’s name, date of birth, physical description, and other relevant details. This information is then made available to law enforcement agencies, the media, and the public to aid in locating missing persons.
The Benefits of a National Missing Persons Database
A national missing persons database provides several key benefits. Firstly, it allows law enforcement agencies to quickly access critical information about missing persons. This information can aid in their efforts to locate the individual, as well as track possible suspects or witnesses.
Secondly, a national missing persons database can help to raise public awareness about missing persons cases. When the information is made public, individuals can provide relevant tips or leads that can help to solve cases. Media coverage also acts as a deterrent to potential abductors, as they know that the public is watching and can help identify them.
Lastly, a national missing persons database allows families of missing persons to access information and updates on their loved ones. This can provide some peace of mind, knowing that everything possible is being done to locate them.
Examples of Successful National Missing Persons Databases
Canada’s national missing persons database, known as the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC), has been successful in aiding law enforcement agencies in locating missing persons. In 2019, CPIC assisted in over 7,500 missing persons cases, resulting in 95% of those cases being resolved.
Similarly, the United Kingdom’s Missing Persons Bureau has also had success in locating missing persons. In 2020, 1,767 people were reported missing in London alone. However, due to the Missing Persons Bureau’s efforts and use of technology, almost all of these cases were resolved.
Conclusion
The importance of a national missing persons database cannot be overstated. It provides a centralized location for critical information on missing individuals, aids in the efforts of law enforcement agencies, raises public awareness and acts as a support for families of missing persons. Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom have already seen the benefits of such a system, and it’s time for the U.S. to do the same. With a national database in place, we can work towards reducing the number of unsolved missing persons cases and bring some closure to the families of missing individuals.
