Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Will Johnny's fingerprints and photographs be destroyed within six months if he is found not guilty of rape?

1. Yes, they will be destroyed

2. No, because rape is a violent felony

3. Only if a civil suit is filed

4. No, but they will be reviewed

The correct answer is: No, because rape is a violent felony

In many jurisdictions, the handling of fingerprints and photographs taken during the arrest process can vary based on the nature of the offense. In this case, since Johnny was accused of rape, which is classified as a violent felony, it is common for the records to be retained for a longer period of time even if he is found not guilty. This retention can be based on the severity of the crime and the potential for it to impact any future law enforcement or criminal justice inquiries. The policies on the destruction of records may also consider the implications related to violent crimes, public safety, and statistics on recidivism. In jurisdictions where rape is marked as a serious crime, it is more likely for the fingerprints and photographs to be kept beyond a typical timeframe like six months, particularly in an effort to maintain a comprehensive record of individuals involved in serious offenses. Therefore, the correct choice regarding the retention of Johnny's fingerprints and photographs is that they will not be destroyed within six months due to the classification of rape as a violent felony. This reflects the legal practices and principles in place concerning serious offenses in criminal justice.