The spelling of "criminal record" consists of three syllables: /ˈkrɪmɪnəl rɛkɔrd/. The first syllable "cri-" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the "m" and "n" consonants. The second syllable "nal" is pronounced with a long "a" sound and the "l" consonant. The final syllable "record" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by the "k", "ɔr" and "d" consonants. The term refers to a documented history of criminal activities and convictions.
A criminal record is a formal documentation of an individual's previous criminal history, which includes any past arrests, charges, convictions, and other relevant criminal activities. It is essentially a legal record that outlines a person's involvement and interactions with the criminal justice system.
Criminal records serve as comprehensive and permanent documentation of an individual's interactions with law enforcement entities and judicial institutions. These records typically include important details such as the date and nature of the offense, the legal charges filed against the individual, and the outcomes and penalties imposed by the court system. The information recorded in a criminal record is obtained from various sources, including police reports, court documents, and other legal records.
The purpose of maintaining criminal records is mainly to provide an accurate and comprehensive account of an individual's criminal history. They are used by law enforcement agencies, background check agencies, employers, and other authorized entities to assess an individual's character, suitability for employment or licenses, and potential risk factors. Criminal records also assist in the identification and tracking of repeat offenders and can influence the sentencing decisions of courts.
It is important to note that criminal records may differ from country to country, depending on their respective legal systems, and the expungement or removal of certain records may be possible under specific circumstances.
The word "criminal" originated from the Latin word "criminālis", which pertains to crime. It is derived from the Latin noun "crimen", meaning "charge" or "offense". The word "record" traces its roots to the Latin word "recordari", meaning "to remember". So, combining the two, "criminal record" refers to a documented history or record of an individual's criminal offenses or charges.