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Missing Children Clearinghouse

Upon receiving notification of a missing child, the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction for the location the child is missing from must:

  • Accept an initial report from the parent or legal guardian (there is no mandatory waiting period).
  • Prepare a report on the incident within five hours of notification (under certain circumstances this may be delayed up to 24 hours). This must include entry of the child's name and description into the Indiana Data and Communications System (IDACS) and the National Crime Information Computer System (NCIC).
  • Begin an investigation within 24 hours after receiving the notification.

Parents/Guardian should have the following documents in their possession prior to arrival of the law enforcement officer:

  • Current photograph of child.
  • Description of clothing child was last seen wearing.
  • Physical description of child.