As the time period increases, what happens to the significance of a hit?

As the time period increases, the significance of a hit decreases because the relevance of the information diminishes over time. In the context of criminal justice and the NCIC system, a hit usually indicates a match or an alert relevant to ongoing investigations or inquiries. However, as time passes, circumstances surrounding the initial data may change, such as the resolution of cases, changes in personal situations, or updates in legal matters.

This diminishing significance can lead to outdated information potentially misinforming investigations or actions taken by law enforcement agencies. It is crucial for users of the NCIC to recognize that older hits should be scrutinized more carefully to ensure they reflect the current situation and context accurately. Monitoring and updating data regularly are essential for maintaining the reliability and effectiveness of law enforcement resources.