What type of individuals does NCIC classify as "persons of interest"?

The classification of "persons of interest" within the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) primarily refers to individuals who may possess information relevant to a criminal investigation. These individuals are not necessarily suspects, but their knowledge or perspective could be crucial in understanding the context of a crime or aiding in its resolution.

This classification is distinct from individuals who have already been arrested, those with pending charges, or those simply attending a trial, as these categories imply a more definitive legal status or involvement in the judicial process. Individuals arrested in the past have had legal consequences, and those with pending charges are actively facing legal scrutiny. Similarly, individuals attending criminal trials are participants in the judicial process rather than sources of information about a crime. Focusing on persons of interest highlights the investigative aspect, allowing law enforcement to gather leads and valuable insights that do not directly link the individuals to criminal activity but suggest their potential role in the broader narrative of the case.