Which of the following is a key function of the NIBRS?

The key function of the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) is to gather detailed information on each crime incident. This system enhances the quality of crime data collected by law enforcement agencies, moving beyond the broader categorizations typical of earlier reporting systems like the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. NIBRS provides comprehensive data such as the nature of the crime, the context in which it occurred, victim and offender demographics, and the relationship between them. This depth of information allows for better analysis of crime trends and patterns, thus improving law enforcement’s ability to address and respond to crime effectively.

In contrast, collecting data on serious crimes only, compiling data solely about property crimes, or reporting only on crime rates in urban areas does not reflect the comprehensive and nuanced approach of NIBRS. The system is designed to support a wide range of crimes and provide a platform for understanding the complexities of criminal incidents.