Which field serves as a pointer to various states that hold Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)?

The correct answer is pertinent because the Interstate Identification Index (III) is specifically designed to provide a centralized database that facilitates the exchange of Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) among states. The III acts as a pointer to state repositories, thus allowing law enforcement and authorized agencies to access criminal history data stored in different states.

This index is crucial for establishing a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s criminal background, as it standardizes how information is shared and retrieved across state lines. It helps in situations where states need reliable access to another state's criminal history data, ensuring that law enforcement can effectively perform background checks and investigations.

The other options do not function as pointers to state-held criminal history records. The attention field, for example, may contain information that is relevant within a specific context but does not link to CHRI repositories. The purpose field serves to outline the intent for which information is being used, not to direct users to where that information is stored. Meanwhile, the JUS field is generally used for identifiers or information pertinent to justice systems but isn't specifically a portal to CHRI across states as the Interstate Identification Index is.