In an inquiry regarding height, what is the search range?

When conducting inquiries regarding height in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), the search range is set to plus or minus three inches. This is established to accommodate slight variations in reported heights while still allowing for accurate identification. The rationale behind using a three-inch range is practical, as it acknowledges potential discrepancies in height measurements that can arise from factors such as individual reporting inaccuracies or variations in measurement methods. Using a defined range helps ensure that relevant records are not overlooked and improves the efficacy of searches in databases, leading to more successful identification and investigation outcomes.

In contrast, an exact height only would limit the search too drastically, potentially excluding pertinent information. Similarly, wider ranges, such as five inches or two inches, do not align with the standard practice for height inquiries in the NCIC framework. Thus, the three-inch search range provides a balanced approach to accurately matching height data while considering minor variances.