CLETS Compliance

What is CLETS Compliance?

The California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) is a state-managed network that allows authorized law enforcement and justice agencies to access vital criminal justice databases—such as the DOJ, FBI, DMV, and NCIC—for investigative and public safety purposes. CLETS access is strictly governed by the CLETS PPP Manual, which outlines how Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) must be protected, transmitted, scanned, and retained.

What is CLETS Compliance and Why Is It Critical for Law Enforcement Records?

California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) agencies that access or store CLETS-related records are required to implement stringent safeguards, including physical security, access control, background screening of personnel, and audit logging. These same requirements extend to third-party service providers like document scanning vendors operating under an MCA when they handle or digitize documents that include information derived from CLETS systems. Non-compliance with CLETS guidelines can result in sanctions, loss of access, and audit penalties. Working with a trusted scanning vendor like TierFive who understands the legal handling of CORI and supports DOJ security standards best ensures that document digitization efforts do not compromise CLETS compliance.

How TierFive Maintains CLETS Compliance in Document Scanning Services

TierFive provides LEO organizations with secure document scanning services we are ISO 2700, SOC2 and HIPAA certified, our key staff is PBSA and e-verify background verified and follows the security, privacy, and handling requirements outlined in the CLETS PPP Manual to ensure safe digitization of records that may include CORI. Our scanning facilities operate with 24/7 surveillance, restricted access areas, and signed confidentiality agreements for all personnel. All staff involved in processing law enforcement records are background-checked and trained on CJIS and CLETS-aligned data security protocols. Scanned documents are encrypted during processing, transfer, and storage using FIPS 140-2 validated methods. We maintain detailed audit logs of all system and user interactions, ensuring full traceability from document intake to final delivery. Access to digital records is restricted through role-based permissions and multi-factor authentication, and we follow documented procedures for chain-of-custody and secure media handling. Whether digitizing field reports, case files, booking logs, or court support documents, TierFive ensures every aspect of scanning aligns with California DOJ expectations for handling records connected to CLETS.

Understanding the Role of CORI and Third-Party Compliance under CLETS

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) is defined under California law as any data compiled by law enforcement agencies for the purpose of identifying criminal offenders, including names, fingerprints, mugshots, charges, convictions, and case dispositions. The CLETS PPP Manual holds agencies—and their vendors—accountable for how this information is accessed, viewed, transmitted, and stored. As a third-party vendor, TierFive operates under written agreements and agency oversight when handling records that may include CORI. We do not access live CLETS terminals but provide scanning services for paper-based CLETS-related documents under compliance-aligned workflows. Our services support agency audit readiness, security plan enforcement, and risk mitigation by ensuring that the digitization process does not introduce vulnerabilities or compromise legal obligations.

Key Benefits of CLETS-Compliant Document Scanning

Law enforcement agencies and justice organizations that partner with TierFive benefit from a secure scanning workflow built around California DOJ, CLETS, and CJIS compliance expectations. Our services reduce paper burdens, improve information access, and help agencies modernize recordkeeping without violating PPP policies. By using background-verified personnel, secure facilities, encrypted transmission, and detailed audit trails, we help ensure CLETS-aligned records remain confidential, accountable, and legally protected through the digital transition.

Contact TierFive today to learn more about how we can help your CLETS regulated law enforcement organization reduce overhead costs securely and accurately digitize highly sensitive records within the compliance requirements of CLETS.