What does the 'S' code indicate in the BPS Field?

The 'S' code in the BPS Field signifies "Recovered-skeletal." This classification is crucial for accurately documenting the state of recovered human remains. When remains are categorized as skeletal, it means that the body has undergone significant decomposition to the extent that only the bones are left. This designation helps law enforcement and forensic professionals to understand the condition of the remains and tailor their investigative and recovery efforts accordingly.

In contrast, other codes refer to different states of recovered remains, such as fresh or decomposed, each providing specific information about the condition of the body that can influence the case's forensic examination and potential identification process. Understanding these codes is essential for accurate data entry and retrieval in NCIC systems, ensuring effective communication among law enforcement agencies.