Fingerprints
Fingerprint identification is the identification of a person using the impressions made by the minute ridge formations (Friction Ridge Skin) and/or unique patterns found on the first joint of the fingers. No two persons have ever been found to have exactly the same fingerprint. The fingerprint patterns of any one individual remain unchanged throughout life.
By examining and comparing fingerprints officials can establish absolute proof of the identity of a person.
Vermont Law enforcement agencies with livescans can record fingerprints digitally. Law Enforcement agencies using a live scan with the proper network connection are able to immediately transmit them electronically to VCIC and the FBI. These live scans will receive an immediate "Hit / No Hit" response from the Tri-State AFIS and the FBI. The criminal fingerprints (if of acceptable quality) are then added to the Tri-State AFIS database. The remaining agencies submit them to the Vermont State Identification Bureau where they are scanned, submitted to the FBI and added to the tri-state AFIS database.
Mugshots
Facial images of a subject (mugshots) are taken at the time of arrest. Frontal and profile images are taken and submitted to VCIC along with the associated fingerprints. Mugshots received digitally are retained in the tri-state AFIS database with the demographic information associated with the mugshot. A copy of the images and the data are automatically sent to the VCIC mugshot repository. Images in the VCIC mugshot repository are then available to be attached to the Vermont Criminal History record or to be used by law enforcement for investigative purposes.
FBI Personal Record Checks
The VCIC does not take fingerprints nor does it process any personal requests for fingerprint based criminal history information. If an individual needs or wants a fingerprint supported record check from the FBI then they must make that request directly to the FBI.