What would a law enforcement officer do if they receive a "hit" on a NCIC query?

When a law enforcement officer receives a "hit" on a NCIC query, the appropriate action is to proceed with caution and verify the information. This step is crucial because a "hit" indicates a potential match, such as a stolen vehicle, outstanding warrant, or missing person, and it is essential to confirm the details before taking any further action. Verification may include checking additional databases, contacting the originating agency for more information, or assessing the situation to ensure public safety.

Taking immediate action based only on the "hit" without verification could lead to unnecessary or inappropriate responses, including misidentified subjects or wrongful apprehensions. It is vital to conduct thorough due diligence to uphold the integrity of law enforcement processes and to ensure actions taken are based on accurate and complete information.