Opening the Black Box of NIBIN: A Descriptive Process and Outcome Evaluation of the Use of NIBIN and Its Effects on Criminal Investigations, Final Report
William King, William Wells, Charles Katz, Edward Maguire, James Frank
ABSTRACT
This report outlines the methods and findings from a study of the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) that was funded by the National Institute of Justice (Grant # 2010-DN-BX-0001). This report begins with a brief description of ballistics imaging and the history and operation of NIBIN. Next, the research methodology and data sources are described. Finally, the findings and recommendations resulting from this study are presented. The study is based on data from four sources. NIBIN usage data (inputs and hits) for all NIBIN sites, detailed hit files from 19 NIBIN sites, survey data from crime labs and firearms sections within crime labs, and information derived from visits to 10 NIBIN sites including details on 65 criminal investigations that involved a NIBIN hit. The data reveal considerable variation in the local implementation of NIBIN and significant time delays in identifying hits. Generally, NIBIN hit reports do not aid investigators, in part because of delays in identifying hits. Although NIBIN has tremendous potential as a tactical and strategic tool, it is rarely used for strategic purposes. Despite these issues, the research team still identified a number of NBIN sites that use NIBIN effectively.