How long are lost or stolen guns retained in the NCIC system?

Lost or stolen guns are retained in the NCIC system indefinitely. This indefinite retention is crucial for maintaining a comprehensive database that law enforcement agencies can utilize when investigating crimes and recovering firearms. By keeping this information accessible over time, authorities can track firearms long after their initial report, which may lead to the recovery of guns that have been missing for years. This approach enhances public safety and supports ongoing law enforcement efforts.

The other options suggest finite retention periods, which do not align with the NCIC's objective of facilitating long-term tracking and recovery of lost or stolen firearms. Such limits could hinder investigations and reduce the effectiveness of efforts to regain possession of these weapons.