Criminal Record Search

A young couple hired a teenage babysitter to look after their child while they were away at a company party. The teenage girl had come to them with good references from a neighbor. On the day of the party, the girl arrived on the dot. Mama and Papa went for the party and expected to be away till midnight. They went with a clear mind because they could see that the girl was quite responsible. However, just after 8 in the evening, the girl called two of her friends over. They then ‘borrowed’ lavishly from the liquor cabinet in the house. Just a few minutes before midnight, the two friends left in their car, never to reach their destination because they were killed in an auto accident. At home, the teenage girl curled to sleep, blissfully unaware of the accident or of the little girl in the next room crying out for her mommy.

A criminal record search of the teenage girl would have revealed her alcohol problems.

According to statistics, at least one employee is killed and 20 injured as a result of workplace violence – all in a single week! Acts of violence are generally the result of disputes and misunderstandings. Sometimes, mindless violence is the direct result of longstanding mental illnesses. With increasing cases of white collar crimes and violence in the workplace, it is necessary for employers to do more than trust their gut instinct while hiring employees. A criminal record check can spare offices and businesses from many instances of crime.

Court rulings in the past few years have invariably been slapping heavy penalties on negligent hiring. There is reason for that:

Ø More than 9% of applicants who have agreed to have their background checked are hiding criminal histories.

Ø Employers are losing more than 80% of negligent hiring suits filed against them.

Ø The average jury awards a plaintiff approximately $1.5million as damages.

However, companies are not the only ones who need to conduct criminal background checks. If you intend to rent your house, knowing the criminal history of your tenant is of utmost importance to you. If you are using an internet dating site, you will be protecting your interests by conducting a criminal record search.

Criminal record searches are conducted by background checking companies. In order to get a comprehensive report, you must opt for a company that offers both state as well as federal criminal checks. Only this can provide you with all the information you want. A basic criminal record check will only expose crimes committed while the applicant is within that jurisdiction. It will not expose crimes committed in another state or throw light on federal charges. Federal crimes are more serious and may include felony, arson, drug dealings, kidnappings and other such serious crimes.

Whether you own a huge business, a small startup company or are an individual about to hire someone else, safety should always be your first concern. One of the ways to show your love for those around you is to verify the identity and claims of any person you hire.