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10th Anniversary of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)


West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin and Director Mueller shared a cheerful moment at a ceremony on April 8 marking the 10th anniversary of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).

In the past decade, NICS has processed more than 100 million background checks to determine the eligibility of an individual to purchase firearms or explosives. "Because of NICS, 'instant' checks are not only possible, they have become routine," Director Mueller said during the ceremony at the Criminal Justice Information Services Division complex in Clarksburg, West Virginia. Each background check includes an automated search of more than 61 million criminal history records, including records on wanted persons and subjects of protective/restraining orders.

The Director thanked the men and women in the NICS Section, saying they work around the clock to provide this critical service to our law enforcement partners. "It is their dedication and innovation that have made NICS successful," he said.


Director Robert Mueller helps observe NICS’ 10th anniversary.


Acting CJIS Assistant Director Jerome Pender (second from left) with former CJIS Assistant Directors.


Former CJIS Assistant Director Tom Bush speaks at the 10th anniversary luncheon.


The NICS Development Team


Director Mueller greets former CJIS Assistant Directors Tom Bush and Jim DeSarno.


West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin (left) and NICS Section Chief John Strong (center).


Director Mueller with Lawrence Keane of the National Shooting Sports Foundation and Peter Hamm from the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence.


Representatives from the Department of Justice with Acting Assistant Director Pender, Acting NICS Section Chief Lisa Vincent, and current NICS management.