Getting a Rhode Island State Police Background Check, often referred to as a BCI check (Bureau of Criminal Identification), is a necessary step for various employment, licensing, and volunteer opportunities. This guide outlines the process, clarifying common questions and potential hurdles.
What is a Rhode Island BCI Check?
A Rhode Island BCI check is a background investigation conducted by the Rhode Island State Police. It reveals an individual's criminal history within the state. The information provided typically includes arrests, convictions, and dismissals. It's important to note that a BCI check only reflects Rhode Island criminal records; it does not encompass records from other states or federal databases.
Who Needs a Rhode Island BCI Check?
Many professions and activities require a BCI check in Rhode Island. These include, but are not limited to:
- Employment: Certain jobs, especially those involving children, vulnerable adults, or sensitive information, mandate a BCI check.
- Licensing: Various professional licenses, such as those for childcare providers, educators, and healthcare professionals, often necessitate a background check.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Organizations working with children or vulnerable populations commonly require BCI checks for volunteers.
- Adoption and Foster Care: Individuals seeking to adopt or become foster parents must undergo a thorough background check, which often includes a BCI check.
How to Obtain a Rhode Island BCI Check: The Process
The process for obtaining a BCI check isn't directly handled online by the Rhode Island State Police. Instead, it's typically initiated through a third party: the employer, licensing board, or volunteer organization requesting the background check. They will submit the request on your behalf, often through a fingerprint-based system.
1. The Request: Your employer, licensing board, or volunteer organization will request the background check and provide you with necessary instructions. This often involves completing an application or authorization form.
2. Fingerprinting: You will need to get fingerprinted at an approved location. The Rhode Island State Police website or the requesting organization should provide a list of approved fingerprinting vendors. This step is crucial because your fingerprints are used to identify your criminal history record.
3. Processing: Once your fingerprints are submitted, the Rhode Island State Police will process the request. The processing time can vary but generally takes several weeks.
4. Results: The results of the BCI check will be sent directly to the entity that requested it, not to you. This is to protect your privacy.
How Long Does a Rhode Island BCI Check Take?
Processing times for BCI checks can fluctuate, depending on the workload of the Rhode Island State Police. Expect a timeframe of several weeks, sometimes longer. It's advisable to inquire about the expected processing time with the organization requesting the check.
What Information is Included in a Rhode Island BCI Check?
The BCI check will show your criminal history within Rhode Island. This typically includes:
- Arrests: Records of all arrests, even if the charges were later dismissed.
- Convictions: Records of all convictions, including the details of the offense and the sentence imposed.
- Dismissals: Records of charges that were dismissed.
What if My BCI Check Reveals Information I Disagree With?
If you believe there's inaccurate information on your BCI check, you have the right to challenge it. Contact the Rhode Island State Police directly to initiate the process of correcting any errors. You may need legal assistance to navigate this process.
Are There Different Types of BCI Checks in Rhode Island?
While there isn't a formal classification of "different types" of BCI checks, the scope of the check might differ slightly depending on the requesting entity. For example, a check for employment might focus solely on criminal convictions, while a check for childcare licensing might be more extensive.
Can I Get My Own BCI Check?
No, you cannot directly obtain your own BCI check from the Rhode Island State Police. The request must originate from an authorized entity like an employer, licensing board, or volunteer organization.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of obtaining a BCI check in Rhode Island. Remember to always verify information directly with the Rhode Island State Police or the organization requesting the background check.
