What is the purpose of a Locate message?

The purpose of a Locate message is to indicate that a subject has been found. This message is critical in law enforcement communication as it marks the successful identification or apprehension of a person or vehicle that is associated with a record in the NCIC (National Crime Information Center) system. A Locate message allows officers to communicate important information about the subject's status, enabling them to take further action as needed, such as making an arrest or assessing the situation at the location where the subject was found.

When law enforcement agencies work in tandem, using a Locate message ensures that all relevant parties are informed about the subject's discovery, which is essential for coordinating follow-up actions and maintaining situational awareness.