STATUS is a full text retrieval system which enables a user to create and search large amounts of textual information on widely varying topics. Simple or complex searches can be made of the database and the advantage of STATUS over retrieval systems is that the user is not limited by restricted keywords. No restrictions on input text are made by the program, leaving the creator of the database freedom to structure the information in virtually any way he chooses. The database is described in terms of the format, chapter headings into which all entered information is classified, the concordance, and named sections of each entry. Searches of the database are made in response to a question typed by the user. An archive search enables a quick method of reviewing articles for utility value. Contacts have been established with similar police research organizations in West Germany, the United States, and Australia, and it may be possible that in the future an exchange of relevant information could take place on a larger scale. Illustrations are provided.