How long are unidentified person file records retained according to established guidelines?

Unidentified person file records are retained indefinitely according to established guidelines. This is crucial because unidentified persons may require ongoing investigation and updates. Maintaining these records allows law enforcement agencies to revisit cases as new information emerges, enabling efforts to identify the individuals and provide closure for families and communities. Indefinite retention ensures that every possible detail and lead remains accessible over time, as it is difficult to predict when new evidence might come to light or when advancements in technology, like DNA analysis, could lead to identification. The indefinite duration reflects the importance of thorough and ongoing investigative processes in clearing unidentified persons from the records.