PERSONAL

IDENTIFICATION
TECHNIQUE
 ETYMOLOGY OF DACTYLOSCOPY

• - It was derived form the Greek Words

DACTYLOS which means a finger and
SKOPIEN which means to examine.
-the science that deals with the identification
of person living or dead through examination
and comparison of fingerprint.
 What are the aspects of personal
identification?
 1. Forensic Chemistry =deals with the application of chemical principles in the
examination of physical evidence…(Biological evidence) experiments/analysis
on blood cells, tissues, saliva, urine, hair, semen, blood stain etc
 2. Medico Legal/Forensic Medicine- (tasked of a doctor) – the examination of a
person living or dead with the principles of medicine as applied to law.
 Forensic pathology - is the legal branch of pathology concerned with determining cause
of death (such as bullet wound to head, exsanguiation, strangulation, etc.) and manner
of death (including murder, accident, natural, or suicide)
 3. Forensic Odontology = Dental/Denture examination and analysis
Forensic odontology is a branch of forensic medicine and, in the interests
of justice, deals with the proper examination, handling and presentation of
dental evidence in a court of law. The work of a forensic odontologist covers:
• Identification of unknown human remains through dental records and assisting
at the scene of a mass disaster
• Age estimations of both living and deceased persons including neo-natal
remains
• Analysis of bite marks found on victims of attack
• Identification of bitemarks in other substances such as wood, leather and
foodstuffs
• 4. Cartography (Portrait Parle) = cartographic sketches
• - Identification of a person through drawing or
sketching the physical features of the suspect.
• Otherwise known as “spoken picture” "camera eyes,"
• 5. Photography = identification through pictures or photographs
•  6. DNA FINGERPRINTING/ANALYSIS/PROFILING- using the DNA
pattern of a person(Identical twins have identical DNA pattern)
DNA fingerprinting uses a specific type of DNA sequence,
known as a microsatellite, to make identification much easier.
Microsatellites are short pieces of DNA which repeat many times
in a given person's DNA
 Other Methods of Personal Identification

 Tattooing – old times signifies family group, clan or tribal relations. It

did not long last because it can be duplicated, change or disfigured.
 Scarification – cutting some parts of the body to leave scars or
marks.
 Bertillon System – Personal description, portrait parle – “speaking
likeness” photography. Anthropometry – identification based on the
measurements of the various bony structure of the human body
 Blood Samples/Examination – now DNA, comparison of tissues and
fibers to determine cells/chromosome.
 Hair Sampling - DNA examination and comparison (Fingerprinting).
 HISTORY BACKGROUND

JUDEA
 The Holy Scripture of the Bible contains many interesting facts based
on Fingerprints.
PAUL THE APOSTLE
-use his own fingerprints to sign his letter which reads as
“I, Paul, greet you with my own hand” (11 Thessalonians
3:17).
 INDIA

• Based on records, fingerprint were observed by the early people in

the smooth face of a Cliff in Nova Scotia
Outline of a hand is covered by the lines representing ridges
and furrows.
 CHINA

 Fingerprint is called “HUA CHI” .

TANG DYNASTY = the era where fingerprints are used in connection

with the preparation of legal documents.
The early practices of fingerprints are credited to the Chinese
Monarchs who were successful in applying this method in their daily
business and legal documents by means of their thumbprints as a
sign manual.
• Code of Domestic Relations= a Chinese law book of Yung Huwi
states that “ to divorce a wife, the husband must write a Bill of
Divorcement and state the reasons/grounds that are due for action,
and then impressed his palm print thereon.
• Story of the River bank= in the Criminal Procedure of China and in
the 16th century
A custom prevailed in connection with the sale of children
where Sole and Palm impressions were stamped on DEEDS OF SALE
to prevent impersonation
EARLY PUBLICATION
AND PIONEERS IN
THE STUDY AND USE
OF FINGERPRINTS
 NEHEMIAH GREW

• The first person who used the scientific study on fingerprints. He

described the ridges and pores of the hands and foot.
 MARCELO MALPIGHI

an Italian Anatomist and the grandfather of dactyloscopy

- He made a study regarding the different layers of the skin.
Epidermis(outer layer)
Dermis(inner layer/true skin)
 Dr. Edmund Locard

• , the father of poroscopy

Commented on his writings on elevated ridges on the finger
tips and alleged to diverse figure on palmar surfaces. He perceived
the ridges to be drawn into Loops and Spirals at the end of the
fingers.
(Galton's Details)

• Edmond Locard wrote that if 12 points (Galton's Details) were the

same between two fingerprints, it would suffice as a positive
identification.  Locard's 12 points seems to have been based on an
unscientific "improvement" over the eleven anthropometric
measurements (arm length, height, etc.) used to "identify" criminals
before the adoption of fingerprints.   
 JCA MAYER

He stated that although the arrangement of the skin ridges is

never duplicated into two (2) person, nevertheless, the
similarities are closer among some individuals. Fingerprints of
two (2) person are never alike. (Principle of Individuality)
JOHANNES EVANGELIST PURKINJIE

Father of dactyloscopy

He involves vague differentiation of fingerprints or use

them for identification. He distinguished and named 9 fingerprint
patterns.
 HERMAN WELCKER

• He took the prints of his own palm. After 41 years, he printed the
same palm to prove that the prints do not change
• (Principle of Permanency)
William James Herchel

 (1883-1917) – he published a book, “The origin of Fingerprinting.”

He was credited as the Father of Chiroscopy.
 used whole handprints as a signature on contracts,
 . Rajyadhar Konai was one of the first people Herschel fingerprinted
as a means of identification.
 This is noted as the first practical
usage of fingerprints.
 Dr. Henry Faulds
He points out that the chance prints left at the scene of crime would
provide for positive identification of offenders when apprehended.
He introduced the used on thin film ink as a transfer medium in taking
fingerprint impression.
• Additionally, he is noted as being the first person to use a latent fingerprint
to eliminate someone as a suspect
 SAMUEL CLEMENS ( Mark Twain)

informally introduced Dactyloscopy in the USA through his

book “ Life in the Mississipi” and Pudd’n and Wilson”, a novel based
on the dramatic fingerprint identification demonstrated during a
court trial where his story pointed out the Infallibility of Finerprint
Identification.
 Sir Francis Galton (1822-1911)

• He was credited as the first scientist of friction skin identification as

well as his role in promoting its use.
• He was able to discover the three families of fingerprint patterns by
dividing the first joint of the ten fingers into three major groups
namely; ARCH, LOOP, and WHORL.
• first scientist of friction skin identification
• PRINCIPLE OF INFALLIBILITY.
 FOUR (4) PILARS IN THE STUDY OF
FINGERPRINT

 PROF. MARCELO MALPIGHI = grandfather of dactyloscopy.

 PROF. JOHANNES PURKENJI (1828)
 SIR FRANCIS GALTON = gave the name of the general patterns of
Arches, Loops and Whorls.
 SIR EDWARD RICHARD HENRY = introduced the fingerprinting of the
ten (10) fingers and presented the system of study as the Henry
System of Identification.
 Sir Edward Richard Henry (1859-1931)

• – he was considered as the Father of Fingerprint Science

because of his persistence in devising a workable system of
classification and made it applicable to police work
Haque & Bose

• On 12 June 1897,  the Council of the Governor General of

India approved a committee report that fingerprints should
be used for classification of criminal records.  Later that
year, the Calcutta (now Kolkata) Anthropometric Bureau
became the world's first Fingerprint Bureau.  Working in the
Calcutta Anthropometric Bureau (before it became the
Fingerprint Bureau) were Azizul Haque and Hem Chandra
Bose.  Haque and Bose are the two Indian fingerprint
experts credited with primary development of the Henry
System of fingerprint classification (named for their
supervisor, Edward Richard Henry). 
 Juan Vucetich

• Vucetich claimed that he is the first official in criminal identification

by means of fingerprint left at the scene of crime. It also mark the
first installation of fingerprint files a an official means of criminal
identification
• He is consider as the father of fingerprint science in the most Spanish
speaking countries
Icnofalangometric System

• - the original name of the system developed by Vucetich in 1891.

• Dactiloscopy - the new name of the system developed by Vucetich.
• Dactiloscopy or Dactiloscopia or Dactiloscopico
• The fingerprint classification system developed by Juan Vucetich and
used in most areas of
• South America. Originally named the Icnofalangometric System and
developed in 1891.
 Alphonse Bertillon (1870)

• – he originated the measuring process or bodily measurements

(Anthropometric system of identification)
• He was credited as the Father of Criminal Identification
 DR HENRY P DE FOREST

• = He utilized the first Municipal Civil use of Fingerprints for “Non-

Criminal Registration” on December 1902 in the City of New York.
Gilbert Thompson,

• employed by the U.S. Geological Survey in New Mexico, uses his own
fingerprints on a document to guard against forgery. This event is the
first known use of fingerprints for identification in America.
Ferrier, John Kenneth

• He is considered to be the first fingerprint instructor in the United

States. Although fingerprints had been used sporadically in the
United States prior to Ferrier's arrival, Ferrier is credited with being
the driving force behind the use of fingerprints in the U.S.
 Inspector Harry H. Caldwell
• Oakland, California Police Department's Bureau of
Identification wrote numerous letters to "Criminal
Identification Operators" in August 1915, requesting them
to meet in Oakland for the purpose of forming an
organization to further the aims of the identification
profession. In October 1915, a group of twenty-two
identification personnel met and initiated the
"International Association for Criminal Identification" In
1918, the organization was renamed the 
International Association for Identification (IAI) due to the
volume of non-criminal identification work performed by
members.  Sir Francis Galton's right index finger appears in
the IAI logo.  The IAI's official publication is the Journal of
Forensic Identification.  
Chatterjee, Sri Salil Kumar(1903 or 1904-Sept.
12, 1988)

• Salil K. Chatterjee, of India, is recognized for developing edgeoscopy

in 1962.
• He is also recognized as developing the only practical soleprint
classification
• system.
Cummins, Prof. Harold (1893-1976)

• Doctor Cummins is universally acknowledged as the Father of

Dermatoglyphics.
• Harold studied all aspects of fingerprint analysis, from anthropology
to genetics,
• from embryology to the study of malformed hands with from two to
seven fingers.
• Evans, Captain Michael P. (?-Oct. 7, 1931)
• Implemented the Bertillon system in 1888 at the Chicago Police
Department and implemented the fingerprint system in 1905 while
he was the Chief of the Identity Bureau. Testified in "People vs.
Jennings".
• 
Holland, Mary (Feb. 25, 1868-Mar 27,
1915)
• Mary and Phil Holland operated the Holland Detective
Agency in the early 1900's. In 1904, they met Ferrier at the
World's Fair in St. Louis. Ferrier instructed Mary Holland
and eight others on fingerprints and how to use the Henry
System. In 1907, Mary Holland was hired by the US Navy as
a fingerprint instructor.
• She is considered to be the second American fingerprint
instructor in the United States (second to Parke) but the first
woman fingerprint instructor. Her teachings promoted the
Henry System throughout the United States. Mary Holland
is also credited as one of the fingerprint experts (along with
Edward Foster, William M. Evans and Michael P. Evans) to
testify in the trial "People vs. Jennings". 
UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT TO
TRY THE INFALLIBILITY OF
FINGERPRINT SCIENCE
 John Dillenger – who tried to remove his fingerprints with acid but failed in
doing so.
 Robert James Pitts – who gained some fame as the man without fingerprints
among identification personnel, is another fingerprint figure because of his
unsuccessful attempt to alter his fingerprints.
(Known as Roscoe Pitts)A career criminal noted for altering his fingerprints in
1941. He had a doctor remove the skin from his first joints and replace it
with skin from his chest.
 LOCARD WITKOWSJI, conducted experiments on themselves by burning
their fingertip with boiling water, hot oil and hot metal but after the healing
of the epidermis, the original patterns of fingerprint reappeared.
Perez, Gerald

• On Feb 07, 2008 Gerald Perez was arrested on drug

charges using the name Edgardo Tirado. While
officials were taking his fingerprints they realized he
altered his fingerprints in an attempt to conceal his
identity but Perez claimed he had been in a fight
when his fingers were cut. His true identity was
revealed when someone recognized him as Gerald
Perez, which was later confirmed. Perez had his
fingers cut lengthwise and then stitched back
together. Some believe this surgery took place in
the Dominican Republic in order to conceal his
criminal record and avoid possible deportation.
 Fingerprint Use in the Philippines

 1819 – Fingerprint has been used or introduced in the

Philippines by Chinese traders.
 1937 – Atty. Agustin Patricio, the first Filipino authority in
fingerprinting who topped the first examination on fingerprints given
by the NYPD.
 1937 – Mr. Flaviano Guerrero, the lone Filipino member of the
FBI who gave the first examination of fingerprint in the Philippines.
 Mr. Generoso Reyes – the first fingerprint expert employed by
the Philippine Constsbulary, Camp Crame, QC.
 Philippine Educational Institute (PCCr) – first school
authorized by the Government to teach Police Sciences.
largest criminal fingerprint AFIS repository

• The largest criminal fingerprint AFIS repository in

America is the FBI's Integrated AFIS (IAFIS) in
Clarksburg, WV.  IAFIS has more than 60 million
individual computerized fingerprint records (both
criminal and civil applicant records). 
2013 - World's Largest Database

• As of March 2013, the 

Unique Identification Authority of India operates
the world's largest fingerprint (multi-modal
biometric) system, with over 200 million fingerprint,
face and iris biometric records.  UIAI  plans to
collect as many as 600 million multi-modal record
by the end of 2014.  India's Unique Identification
project is also known as Aadhaar, a word meaning
"the foundation" in several Indian languages. 
Aadhaar is a voluntary program, with the ambitious
goal of eventually providing reliable national ID
documents for most of India's 1.2 billion residents
 Important Definition of terms

•
ANTHROPOMETRY = a system of identification of individuals by
measurement of the parts of the body developed by Alphonse
Bertillon.
 AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AFIS) = an electronic
fingerprinting identification that can digitize fingerprint information to
produce inkless fingerprints. (Latent fingerprints are scanned and
converted into an electronic image that is stored in a database for rapid
retrieval)
 DACTYLOGRAPHY = the process of analyzing fingerprints or the study of
fingerprint.
 DACTYLOMANCY – refers to the study of the character or behavior of a
person through the use of fingerprints.
EDGEOSCOPY = an identification process where characteristics along the
ridge edge is compared and evaluated for comparison purposes. These are
the result of the alignment and shape of individual ridge units as well as the
pores close to the edge of the
 FILLING = refers to the operation of locating the proper place of the
fingerprint file where a certain set of fingerprint belongs.
 FILLING OUT = refers to the entering of the fingerprint record all known
essential data about an individual or subject except the fingerprint
themselves.
 FINGERPRINT = an impression of the friction ridges found on the inner
surface of the finger or thumb.
 FINGERPRINT RIDGES/ FRICTION RIDGES = these are raised details/layers of
fingertip in the skin on the inside of the end joints of the fingers and thumbs
by which fingerprints are made or forms unique patterns for use in criminal
identification.
FINGERPRINT EXPERT = refers to a person having specialized knowledge of
fingerprint science not known to person of moderate education and or
experience in the same field.
 FINGERPRINTING = the process of recording actual fingerprints of
individuals or suspect/s. Also called “Friction ridge pattern
analysis”.FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION = an applied science that is without
bias or prejudice with a personal opinion being rendered as a conclusion.
 LATENT PRINTS = these are the best evidence fingerprints found at the
actual crime scene.

 LIVE SCAN METHOD OF FINGERPRINTING = it record, stores and transmits

fingerprint digitally. This method allows the police to place a suspect’s finger
on a glass plate which is then read by a special devise to produce a digital
image of the print. The image can be then transmitted over a telephone line
to computerized criminal record centers.
MAJOR CASE PRINT = a complete set of record prints obtained from an
individual including but not limited to fingerprints, palm prints, edges of the
hands, fingertips and the entire finger.
 PARTIAL FINGERPRINT = a latent print in which only a portion of the pattern
area is visible or able to be recovered.
 POINTS = it refers to the identical characteristics that are found in the
fingerprints from the known and questioned sources. It includes all the
different types that occur outside the pattern area on the fingers as well as
on the first and second joint of the fingers and the entire palm of the hand
to include the entire sole of the foot.
• The term ‘points’ generally refers to bifurcations and ending ridges while the
term ‘characteristics’ can refer to large pores, incipient ridges, dots, scars,
etc. It’s possible that the variation between practitioners in this study was
due to a lack of clarity in the directions.
 POST MORTEM FINGERPRINTING = it is the taking of the fingerprint of a
dead/deceased person for identification purposes.
 POLYDACTYLISM = the appearance of an extra finger.
 RECORD PRINT = those made for identification file or for a search to
determine whether the person has previously filed a fingerprint record or
for comparison with a chance impression for a purpose.
 RIDGEOLOGY = a method of evaluating all friction ridge structure or refers
to a forensic identification science that is associated with any or all ridge
details on the volar areas (bottoms of hand and feet) and not just only ridge
formation that may appear.
RIDGE CHARACTERISTICS = these are little details in the ridges of the
fingerprint patterns which are used in comparing and identifying
fingerprints. Also called “Minutiae” = a computerized scanning equipment
which was initiated through research and development by the FBI to read
and record fingerprint identifying characteristics.
Cheiloscopy

• The study of lip prints.

Dry-Labbing

• Reporting results from tests that were not actually done. Also
referred to as Dry-Benching.
Fulcrum Area

• The area between the thumb and index finger on the palm.
Dorsal

• The backside of the hand, the nonpalmar side.

Galton Details

• Term referring to friction ridge characteristics (also known as

minutiae)
 International Association for Identification
• .The(IAI)
IAI was founded by Harry Caldwell in Oakland, California as the
"International Association for Criminal Identification". The name was
changed in 1918 to reflect the noncriminal work done by the
identification bureaus. The IAI has put out many publications since
its inception including the 'International Identification Outlook',
'Sparks from the Anvil', 'Identification News' and the 'Journal of
Forensic Identification'. IAI ResolutionsResolution 1973 – Minimum
Number of Characteristics (revised in 2009)In 1973, The IAI
Standardization Committee released the results of a three-year
study. They recommended and adopted that “no valid basis exists at
this time for requiring that a pre-determined minimum number of
friction ridge characteristics must be present in two impressions in
order to establish positive identification.” This was based on the fact
that each print has a unique set of circumstances
 SEQUENCING = the placing of a group of classified set of fingerprints into
their correct filing order before beginning to file or search them.
 RIDGE COUNTING = refers to the process of counting intervening ridges that
is touched or crossed by an imaginary line drawn between the core and the
delta.
RIDGE TRACING = refers to the process of tracing the ridge that emanates
from the lower side of the left delta towards the right delta to see where it
flows in relation to the right delta.
 FINGERPRINT AS AN IMPRESSION
= by means of the reproduction on the smooth surface the patterns
and designs by friction ridges found at the inside of the end joints
of the fingers and thumbs through a transfer medium of ink or any colored
substances capable of producing visibility.

 METHODS OF RECORDING FINGERPRINTS

 PLAIN IMPRESSION = it requires that the fingers be taken or printed
simultaneously then the thumbs without rolling. Use to check upon the
sequence and accuracy/confirmation of the rolled impression.
 ROLLED IMPRESSION = it requires that the thumbs and fingers be rolled
from side to side or 180 degrees in order to obtain all available ridge details.
 NOTE: (Inking and Printing) = The THUMB should be rolled towards the
body of the technician/subject followed by all the fingers (away from the
subjects body).
Palm print impressing – is to impress palms unto the palm print impression column.
Impress it fully with extended palms.
 BRANCHes OF DACTYLOSCOPY

 1. CHIROSCOPY – allied science of Dactyloscopy which deals with

the study of the palms of the hand. Derived from the Greek words
 CHEIR which means a hand and SKOPIEN which means to examine.
 2. PODOSCOPY - branch of the science of dactyloscopy which deals
with the study of the sole of the foot. Derived from the Greek words
PODO which means foot and SKOPIEN which means to examine.
 3. POROSCOPY - branch of the science of dactytoscopy which deals
with the study of the sweat pores found in the friction skin. Derived
from the Greek words
 POROS which means pores and SKOPIEN which means to examine.
Pelmatoscopy

• The science which studies the friction ridges of the soles.

 Of the different aspects of personal identification, it was
proven beyond reasonable doubt and the proper authorities
 concerned that fingerprints is:

 1. The only infallible system of identification throughout the world.

 2. It is the most convincing proofs of man’s individuality.
 3. It enables to unmask the real identity of the law breaker.
 3 BASIC DOGMATIC PRINCIPLES
OF THE STUDY OF FINGERPRINTS

 
 1. Principle of Individuality (variation) = there are no two fingers
that are exactly alike unless taken from the same finger-uniqueness.
That the complex ridge details in a single fingerprint or even part one
is not duplicated in any other finger.
 2. Principle of Permanency (Constancy/Perennial/Immutable) = the
configuration and details of individual ridge characteristics of
fingerprint patterns do not change, remain constant and unchanging
and they persist after death till the final decomposition of the skin or
human body.
 3. Principle of Infallibility(reliability) = that fingerprint is a reliable
means of personal identification and all courts accept and adopt
fingerprints as a means of personal identification. It will not fail or be
forged.
Fingerprint Identification (AKA Friction
Ridge Identification or Friction Skin
Identification)
• The applied science of identification by friction skin based on the
Theory of Differential Growth and the Theory of Permanence.
• Skin is one of the largest organs of the body. It is recognized as an organ
because it consists of several types of tissues that function together. In
addition, it includes millions of sensory receptors and an extensive vascular
network. The skin is a protective, pliable covering of the body, one that is
continuously replaced.  The Integumentary System includes the skin and the
epidermal derivatives of hair, nails and glands.
 papillary structure/human skin

 Composed of ridge surface, pore, duct, the sweat gland, as well as

the epidermis, stratum mucosum, nerve and the dermis. The
EPIDERMIS is seen as the outer layer of the skin structure showing
the ridges and furrows. It is composed of several layers having
different structural characteristics. DERMIS is the true skin because it
contains blood vessels, various glands and nerves.
 DERMAL PAPILLAE – are irregular blunt pegs composed of delicate
connective tissues protruding and forming the ridges of the skin on
the finger, palms, toes and soles of the feet.
 The ridge generating element of the skin
 The boundary between the dermis and epidermis is a point of
potential weakness where the two tissues may be separated from
each other.  The fingerlike formations (or interdigitation) also serve
to strengthen the epidermis/dermis junction.
Papillary structure/human skin
 
Sub-divisions of Epidermis
• Stratum Corneum , or Horny Layer
• Stratum Lucidum, or Hyalin Layer
• Stratum Granulosum, or Granular Layer
• Stratum Spinosum, or Spinous Layer
• Stratum Basale, or Generating Layer
• Stratum corneum - consists of 25-30 layers of
stratified (layered) squamous (flattened) dead
keratinocytes (skin cells) that are constantly shed.
• Stratum lucidum - is present only in thick skin (lips,
soles of feet, and palms of hands). Little or no cell
detail is visible.
• Stratum granulosum - 3-4 layers of cell thick
consisting of flattened keratinocytes.  At this level
the cells are dying.
• Stratum spinosum - several layers thick, consisting
mostly of keratinocytes.  Together with the stratum
basale it is sometimes referred to as the Malpighian
layer (living layer).
• Stratum basale - a single layer of cells in contact
with the basement membrane.  These cells are
mitotically active - they are alive and reproducing -
the reason why it is often referred to as the
generating layer.  Four types of cells are present in
this layer:
Basement Membrane

• A thin, delicate layer of connective tissue underlying the epithelium

of many
• organs. Also called basement lamina.
• A membrane separating the dermis from the epidermis. The
basement membrane
• consists of an upper layer, (lamina lucida) and a lower layer (lamina
densa).
• Friction Ridge Path The paths or deviations of a friction ridge (endings and
bifurcations). referred to as 2nd level details. 
• Friction Ridge Shapes - The shapes (width and contour) of the ridges. Also
referred to as 3rd level details. 
• Friction Ridge Unit - A theoretical length of measurement.
Cell progression

• The entire progression of keratinocytes in the basal layer until it

reached to the horny layer, the cells (keratinocytes) are always
bound by desmosomes. After keratinizations occur, cells will slough
off like scales in the atmosphere.
• This process is called desquamation.
Friction Skin Formation,

• stages :
• Swelling of the volar pads.
• The volar pads start to regress.
• Primary ridges form.Sweat glands develop.
• Secondary ridges develop.
• Anastomoses form.
• Dermal papillae are created.
Mechanical Fusion Theory:

• As existing ridges separate, a demand for new ridges is created

because the surface has a tendency to be continually ridged
 FRICTION SKIN – hairless skin where hair cannot grow commonly located in
our hand and foot.
 RIDGE (ruga or rugae)
 was taken from the term applied to mountain, according to Webster, ridge
is defined as “the top of long hill.” The elevated portion of the outer skin.
 FURROWS are the canal or depressed portion between two ridges.
Ridges begin to form on the human fetus 3-4 months and fully
developed five to six months before birth/embryonic period.
 SWEAT GLANDS – a gland responsible in producing sweat or perspiration
when different tissues in the body under pressure or move.
 “DUCTS.”- small holes or passage way which carry the oil to the surface
from little pockets underneath the skin.
 PORE – a small opening anywhere across the ridge surface but is usually
found near the center.
 SMUDGE is nothing but a smear left by the finger.
 Two types of ridge destruction

• 1. Permanent Destruction – will not re-appear anymore

• 2. Temporary destruction- it will re-appear

 CAN FINGERPRINT BE EFACED?

No. As long as the dermis of the bulbs of the fingers are not
completely destroyed, the fingers will always remain unchanged and
indestructible.

CAN FINGERPRINT BE FORGED?

= There is a considerable controversy regarding the possibility of

forging fingerprint or making a simulated impression or a perfect replica of
impressions of the fingers. Authorities have conducted several experiments
and although they could almost make an accurate reproduction, no case on
record have been known and written that forgery of fingerprints has been a
success. The introduction of modern scientific examination, new technique
and up to date, knowledge in crime detection will always fail to attempt.
• So, do identical twins have identical fingerprints? The basic answer is NO.
Identical -- or monozygotic -- twins form when a single fertilized egg splits in two
after conception. Because they form from a single zygote, the two individuals
will have the same genetic makeup. Their DNA is virtually indistinguishable.
• However, fingerprints are not an entirely genetic characteristic. Scientists love
to use this topic as an example of the old "nature vs. nurture" debate.
Fingerprinting, along with other physical characteristics, is an example of a
phenotype -- meaning that it is determined by the interaction of an indivdual's
genes and the developmental environment in the uterus.
• The ultimate shape of fingerprints are believed to be influenced by
environmental factors during pregnancy, like nutrition, blood pressure, position
in the womb and the growth rate of the fingers at the end of the first trimester.
Thus, you will find similar patterns of whorls and ridges in the fingerprints of
identical twins. But there will also be differences -- just as there are differences
between the fingers on any individual's hands.
Phalange (Phalanx)
• Any bone in the fingers is referred to as a phalanx (or phalange).
The fingers each having 3;
• the distal phalanx,
• the medial or middle phalanx,
• and the proximal phalanx.
• The thumb has two; the distal phalanx and the proximal phalanx.
Phalanx is more frequently used for the singular form of the word
and phalanges is more frequently used for the plural form of the
word, but phalange or phalanxes can be substituted. 
• . The proximal phalange bone incorporates a finger segment as
well as part of the interdigital area.
• PATTERN AREA is the only part of the finger impression with which we are
concerned in regard to interpretation and classification. That part of a loop or
whorl in which appear the cores,deltas, and ridges with which we are concerned
in classifying. The pattern areas of loops and whorls are enclosed by type lines.
• ELEMENTS OF A PATTERN AREA
1. There must be a CORE/s appearing on the pattern area
2. There must be DELTA/s appearing on the pattern area
3. Other ridges wherein concerned in the interpretation and
classification of fingerprints.
• TYPE LINES may be defined as the two innermost ridges which start parallel, diverge and surround or tend to surround the
pattern area. Type lines are not always two continuous ridges

• BIFURCATION is the forking or dividing of one line into two or more branches.
• DIVERGENCE is the spreading apart of two lines which have been running parallel or nearly parallel.
• FOCAL POINT – Within the pattern areas of loops and whorls are enclosed the focal points which are used to classify them.
These points are called delta and core.
• DELTA (outer terminus) is that point on a ridge at or in front of and nearest the center of the divergence of the type lines.
• It may be:
• a. A bifurcation
• b. An abrupt ending ridge
• c. A dot
• d. A short ridge
• e. A meeting of two ridges
• f. A point on the first recurving ridge located nearest to the center and in front of the divergence of the type
lines.
• CORE (Inner terminus), as the name implies, is the approximate center of the finger impression. It will be necessary to
concern ourselves with the core of the loop type only.
 Focal Points1
• Focal points may include a delta, core, creases, scars, or
the flow of friction ridge detail (as with a recurve).
Focal points may be used for searching but not necessarily
be used in arriving at a conclusion during the ACE-V
process. The search parameters are increased for prints
with limited or no focal points.
2. In the Henry Classification, focal points refer specifically
to the core and deltas areas.
3. The term focal point is occasionally used to refer to a
target group.
 Ridge characteristics/ “Minutiae”
  Fingerprint may have the same fingerprint pattern but differ in their characteristics

 1. Re-curving ridge = a ridge that curves back in the direction which it started.

 2. Converging ridges = two (2) or more lines forming an angle, a ridge whose close end is angular and serve a s appoint of convergence.

 3. Diverging ridges = two (2) ridges running side by side and suddenly separating, one ridge going one way and the other ridge another way.

 4. Bifurcating ridge = a single ridge which splits into two (2) ridges forming a Y shape structure.
Trifurcation

 5. Eyeland, eyelet, lake or eye = it is a single ridge that bifurcates where the bifurcating ridges converge at a certain point to form again into a single ridge.

 6. Short or series of short ridges = fragmentary ridges form by short or series of short ridges.

 7. Ridge ending = it is a termination or ending of a ridge or ridges.

 8. Fragmentary ridges = they consist of disconnected sequence of short ridges embodied intensely. These ridges are considered in the classification if they appear dark
and as thick as the surrounded ridges within the pattern area.
 9. Ridge hook = it is a ridge that divides to form two (2) ridges which are shorter in length than the main ridge.

• Bridge Ridge -Bridge

• A connecting friction ridge between, and generally at right angles to, parallel running
• friction ridges.
Dysplasia

• Ridge units that did not form complete friction ridges due to a
genetic cause.
Bracelet Creases

• The creases located at the base of the palm. Usually where the
friction skin ends.
Flexion Crease

• Creases that are formed during friction ridge formation, completely

lacking of any ridge detail. Flexion creases are unique and
permanent. .
Proximal Inter-Phalangeal Flexion Crease

• The crease which separates the fingers from the palm.

• Metacarpo-phalangeal Crease
Medial Interphalangeal Flexion Crease

• The middle crease on a finger.

• Bertillonage
BERTILLON SYSTEM
• Bertillon's method of anthropometry.
• = by body measurement
• = otherwise known as the anthropometric system of identification 1870.
• BASIS:
• 1. Human skeleton does not change after 20 yrs.
• 2. It is impossible for two (2) human beings to have bones alike.
• 3. Measurement easily taken with the aid of simple instrument.
• CHARACTERISITICS OF INDIVIDUAL
• A. Description data, such as color of the hair, eyes, complexion, shape of nose and ear.
• B. Body marks such as moles, scars and tattoo.
• C. Body measurement.
• = standing height = arm reach
• = sitting height = breadth of head
• = length of left foot = cheek breadth
• = length of right ear = length of middle finger
• = length of little finger = length of left forearm
• = length of left forearm and hand
• The Bertillon System was generally accepted for thirty years. But it
never recovered from the events of 1903, when a man named Will
West was sentenced to the U.S. Penitentiary at Leavenworth,
Kansas. It was discovered that there was already a prisoner at the
penitentiary at the time, whose Bertillon measurements were
nearly the same, and his name was William West. Upon
investigation, there were indeed two men who looked exactly
alike. Their names were Will and William West respectively. Their
Bertillon measurements were close enough to identify them as the
same person. However, a fingerprint comparison quickly and
correctly identified them as two different people. (Per prison
records discovered later, the West men were apparently identical
twin brothers and each had a record of correspondence with the
same immediate family relatives.)
Fox, Albert Ebenezer and Ebenezer Albert

The Story of the Fox twins is the English equivalent to the William and
Will West story in the United States. The Fox twins were born in St.
Ippolytes, England and recognized as poachers and petty thieves who
accumulated over 220 convictions between them. Sgt. John Ferrier is
said to have used this case as an example at the 1904 World's Fair to
show how the Bertillon system wasn't sufficient for identification but
the Fingerprint System prevailed.
 TYPE OF fingerprint PATTERNS

 Fingerprints may be resolved into three large general groups of

patterns, each group bearing the same general characteristics or family
resemblance. The patterns may be further divided into sub-groups by
means of the smaller differences existing between the patterns in the same
general group.
  
 PERCENTAGE OF APPEARANCE OF PATTERNS
 These divisions are as follows:
 GENERAL GROUPS - I. ARCH – 5% II. LOOP - 60% III. WHORL – 35%
 SUB-GROUPS a. Plain arch a. Radial loop a. Plain whorl
 b. Tented arch b. Ulnar loop b. Central Pocket
loop
c. Double loop
1. Lateral pocket loop
2. Twin loop
d, Accidental whorl
3 Phalanx/phalange of finger

• Proximal phalanx - tne one nearest the wrist,

• middle phalanx,
• terminal phalanx – where you can locate the fingerprint patterns
 arches

• No delta
• No core
• Ridges flow from one side to other side
 loops

• 1 delta
• 1 core
• Sufficient recurve
 whorls

• Two deltas
• 1 or 2 cores
• Complete circuit of sufficient recurve
 ARCHES

1. PLAIN ARCH (A/60 %) = a finger print pattern in which the

ridges enter on one side of the pattern and flow toward the
other side with a slight rise in the center, with not more
than one of the four requisites of a loop and with no re-
curving ridge, no angular formation and no upward thrust.
• 2. TENTED ARCH (T/40 %) = a type of fingerprint pattern which has
no delta and core. The ridges flow from one side to other side rising
like a tent and with the present of an up thrust.  
 LOOPS

ULNAR LOOP (U/94 %) = when the opening end of the loop ridge
points in the direction of the little finger side of either left or right
hand.

 RADIAL LOOP (R/6 %) = when the opening end of the loop ridge
points to the direction of the thumb side of either left or right hand.
 WHORLS

PLAIN WHORL (W) = a pattern which there are the deltas and in which at least
one ridge makes a turn through one complete circuit. Imaginary lines drawn
between the two (2) deltas must touch or cross at least of the circuiting
whorl ridge within the pattern area

CENTRAL POCKET LOOP (C) = = It has two (2) deltas one which appears at the
edge of the pattern area as in plain loop and which shows inside
the pattern area just below the counter part ridges. Imaginary lines
drawn between the two (2) deltas must not touch or cross at least of the
circuiting whorl ridge within the pattern area
• LATERAL POCKET LOOP(W)(TALIKURAN) – a type of Fingerprint
pattern in which the core ridges of the two loops makes their
access and exist on the same side o the fingerprint impression.
• DOUBLE LOOP/TWINNED LOOP (D) (BALIKTARAN) = a fingerprint
pattern consisting of two separate distinct loop formation. One of
the loop surrounds or overlaps the other also called
“Composite Patterns” like the central pocket loop whorl. It
arises from the fact that these patterns are composite or
combination of two patterns in one with two (2) cores and
two (2) deltas. It forms an S shape in the center.
• ACCIDENTAL WHORL (X) = a fingerprint pattern that is a
combination of two or more different types of patterns
except in Plain Arch. It maybe a loop and a whorl, a
loop and a central pocket loop whorl, or any combination
of two different loops and whorl patterns. Like the
central pocket loop whorl and double loop whorl, they
called it “Accidental Whorl Composites”.
• 
Cuspal

• When the ridges on a finger run vertically from the crease to the tip
of the finger.
• Moenssens states that these patterns cannot be grouped into any of
the Henry pattern
• types. Cummins states that they should be grouped into the
accidental whorl category.
• Others have stated that cuspal patterns should be classified as a
tented arch.
FORMS OF DELTA
• A bifurcation
• An abrupt ending ridge
• A dot
• A short ridge
• A meeting of two ridges
• A point on the first recurving ridge located nearest to the center
and in front of the divergence of the type lines.
 It maybe
bifurcation
 An abrupt
ending ridge
A Dot
A Short
Ridge
Meeting
of two
Ridges
A point on the
first recurving
ridge located
nearest to the
center and in
front of the
divergence of
the type lines.
 When there is a choice between two or more
possible deltas, the following rules govern;
• 1. The delta may not be located at a bifurcation which does not open
toward the core.
2. When there is a choice between a bifurcation and another types of
delta, the bifurcation is selected.
3. When there are two or more possible deltas which conform to the
definite, the one nearest the core is chosen.

When single ridge enters the pattern area,

with two or more bifurcations opening toward the
case.
4. The delta may not be located in the middle of a ridge running between the
type lines toward the core, but at the nearer end only.

The location of the delta is this case depends entirely upon the point of
origin of the ridge running between the type lines toward the core.

4-a. If the ridge is entirely within the pattern area, the delta is located at
the end nearer the point of divergence of the type lines.
4-b. If the ridge enters the pattern area from a
point below the divergence of the types lines, the
delta must be located at the end nearer the core.
B. Core – is the appropriate center of the finger
impression.
SELECTION OF THE CORE OF A LOOP
1.The core is placed upon or within the inner most
sufficient recurve.
2. When the inner most sufficient recurve contains no ending ridge or
rod rising as high as the shoulders of the loops, the case is placed on
the shoulder of the loop farther from the delta
3. When the innermost sufficient recurves
contains an uneven number of rods rising as high
as the shoulders, like core is placed upon the end
of the center rod whether it touches the looping
ridge or not.
4. When the innermost sufficient recurve contains an even
number of rods, rising as high as the shoulder, the core is
placed upon the end of the farther one of the two center rods,
the two center rods being treated as though they were
connected by a recurving ridge.

Shoulder of a loop – are the points at which

the recurving ridge definitely turns or curves.
5. If such an appendage is present between the shoulders if a loop, that
loop is considered spoiled and the next loop outside will be considered
to locate the core.
6. In case of interlocking loops at the center, two loops are
considered as one.
6-a. When the shoulder line (x – x) is drawn it is found to cross exactly at
the point of intersection of the two loops. The two loops are
considered one with one rod, the core is being placed at (c) or point of
intersection.
6-b. When the shoulder line (x – x) is above the point of intersection of
the two loops. The two are considered as one with two rods, the core
being at C (farther from the delta)
6-c. When the shoulder line (x – x) is below the point of intersection of
the loops, again. The two are considered as one with two rods, the core
is being placed at C.
6-d. The two loops are treated as one, with two
rods, the core is being placed at C.
 FINGERPRINT KITS

 1. INK ROLLER – one of the inking devices required for spreading the ink on the glass
 slab
 2. INK SLAB – a piece of glass either ¼” thick and 6 or more inches long
 3. CARD HOLDER – this type of gadget is for clipping the fingerprint card to avoid
 movement of the card during printing
 4. FINGERPRINT INK – this is a specially manufactured ink for purposes of taking
 fingerprints
 5. MAGNIFYING GLASS – used to examine developed latent prints; a 3 inch wide
 reading glass is useful
 6. FINGERPRINT POWDERS – “Principle of contrast”
 7. FINGERPRINT BRUSHES – must be carried in pairs of three. Fiberglass brushes
 are preferably used by technicians. If magnetic powders are carried, use a magnetic
 device for application.
 8. FINGERPRINT LIFTING TAPES – there must be a sufficient supply of lifting tapes to
 be carried at all times. There are 3 kinds: frosted, rubber, and transparent.
 9. LATENT FINGERPRINT TRANSFER CARDS – used for preserving developed, lifted
 latent fingerprints
 10. FINGERPRINT CARDS – these record cards must be carried always for recording
 inked fingerprints for comparison STANDARD 8 x 8 INCH CARD
 11. FLASH LIGHT – a very useful device for searching and for focusing on developed
 latent prints
 12. ROLLER OR TAPE MEASURE – a roll type maybe carried for measuring a crime
 scene sketch
 13. PAIR OF FORCEPS – for picking up objects
 14. GRAPH PAPER – for sketching purposes
 15. EVIDENCE IDENTIFICATION TAPES OR TAGS – used to identify objects or
 physical evidence
 16. SCISSORS – required for purposes of cutting latent print tapes
 17. RUBBER GLOVES – to protect the technician’s fingers from leaving his own
 prints on the object.
 18. POST-MORTEM FINGERPRINTING EQUIPMENT – contains hypodermic
 syringe, spoon, tissue builder solvent, tissue cleaner
 19. CARRYING CASE – a box-like structure or an attaché type may suffice. There
 are several crime detection equipment manufactures or suppliers of fingerprint
 equipment
 20. INKLESS INKING DEVICE – porelon pad, sensitized fingerprint cards, purpose:
 not to stain the fingers. The finger is touched to the inkless pad then to the
 sensitized card and instantly a permanent readable print will be developed
 without staining the fingers.
 11 POINTS TO CONSIDER IN TAKING
LEGIBLE FINGERPRINTS

 1. Cleanliness of the equipment

 2. The right kind or amount of Ink
 3. The proper distribution of Ink on the glass slab
 4. The distance of the subject from the Inking plate
 5. The advice of the operator to the subject to RELAX and never aid in the operation
 6. The pressure exerted must be slight and even, and the rolling be continuous movement
including the lifting.
 7. The nail of the fingers should be at right angle to the glass slab or to the card before
starting the rolling and always roll the fingers up to the other side of the nail is reached.
 8. The Inking and printing must always reach below the first joint of the fingers.
 9. The thumbs should be rolled towards the operator’s/subject’s body and all other fingers
away from the subject’s body.
 10. While rolling the fingers, the subject’s hand should be held/controlled properly to
prevent twisting and slipping of the fingers.
 11. Observe proper alignment
General Technique or Ordinary Impressing –

•  Position of Impresser/Operator – the impressing

plate is on the left side of the table while the glass
plate or cardholder is on its right side.
• Positions of Persons – The Impressing attendant or
operator is on the left side while subject is on the
right side of the operator and about 20 cm off/away
from the impressing table
• Density of Ink – the amount of ink needed for
impression per person is the volume of a match
head.
 PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED IN TAKING
FINGERPRINTS OR FINGER
DISABILITIES THAT NEED EXTRA
ATTENTION
 
 1. When the fingers have fresh cut wound and bandaged -arranged for future
printing.
  2. When the hand is perspiring excessively,
 wipe the fingers with cloth before taking. If the perspiration can not be
controlled, wipe it with alcohol.
  3. When the fingers are very fine like the fingers of a baby,
 use little amount of ink/ spread a very thin coating of ink on the glass slab
 4. When the fingers are very dry like the fingers of a carpenter,
 rub the fingers with cream, oil or lotion.
 5. When one or more fingers are missing or amputated,
 record the present fingers and place a notation on the corresponding space on
the card that such finger is amputated or missing.
 6. When the fingers are band (twins), broken or crippled,
 use one (1) of the methods in taking the prints of a dead person.
 7. When the subject’s hand has more than ten (10) fingers are fully
grown,
 the thumbs and the next fingers, to them should be printed and on
the other side of the card, place a notation that such fingers are
extra-fingers.
 8. Should any extra finger appear anywhere between the fingers,
 record the print of the one fully formed or normal fingers in the
proper sequences, then record the extra-digits at the back of the
card with a notation as to where it appears.
 9. In case of split thumbs, a thumb having two (2) nails or when the
subject has two (2) or more fingers webbed or grown together,
 making it impossible to roll such finger in its sides, print a notation at
the back of the card to such effect.
 PROBLEMS IN RECORDING INKED
FINGERPRINTS
 1. Mechanical Operation
 2. Temporary disabilities
 2. Permanent disabilities
 3. General Deformities
 
 MECHANICAL OPERATION – in order to take fingerprints, the necessary
equipment should be maintained in a neat and orderly manner at all times.
 Use of poor, thin, and colored ink –
resulting in impression which is too light and faint. The ink will dry
quickly and blurred or smear with handling.
 Failure to clean thoroughly the inking apparatus and the fingers or foreign
substances and perspiration.
 causing the appearance or false marking and the disappearance of characteristics.
 Wind shield cleaner, gasoline, Benzedrine and alcohol are good cleansing agent.
 Failure to roll the finger fully from one side to the other side and to ink the
whole area from top until below or first joint of finger.
 the results of this is that the focal point of the impressions might not appear.
 Use of too much ink
obliterating or obscuring the ridge.
 Insufficient ink,
resulting in ridges to light and faint to be counted or traced.
 Allowing the finger to slip or twist,
resulting in smears, blurred and false appearing patterns.
 
 TEMPORARY DISABILITIES

 One problem that a fingerprint officer may encounter is temporary disability.

 1. Fresh cut/bandage/blisters – these disabilities will temporary disfigure the impression so
the operator must postponed/reschedule the printing until the wound or blisters will
healed.
 Exception: If the finger only suffered such fresh wound the printing will go on.
 2. Occupational problems - pose a challenge to fingerprint technicians. In such cases, the
appearance of the ridges are not exactly destroyed, but they are weakened and the prints
show faint ridges. The patterns are still present and have not changed. When such
workers have stopped working for a certain length of time, the ridges will come back clear
and sharp as they were before.
 - by means of softening agent such as oil and creams will aid to obtain legible
inked impression. It is further suggested that in this case a very small amount of ink should
be applied in inking plate.
 3. Excessive perspiration – caused the inked impression to be indistinct/unclear.
 - the used of alcohol, Benzedrine or other similar fluid will act as drying agents.
  
 PERMANENT DISABILITIES

 Lack of fingers (missing at birth)

 Amputated fingers
 Extra fingers (Polydactyl hand)
 Crippled finger (bent/broken)
 Fingers of old ages

 GENERAL PROBLEMS
 Under this situation, a relatively infrequent occurrence is the
appearance of a person with extra fingers. A subject may show two thumbs
or two little fingers on the same hand. Sometimes the extra digit may
appear on the index, middle, or ring fingers. It happens not infrequently
that a subject will have two split or webbed fingers. Such fingers should be
fully rolled and a notation be made on the card. Split digits most often
represent the thumbs with complete nail joints. For classification purposes,
only the inner thumb is used while the outer joint is not given any
consideration.
• Form BlindnessThe inability to see minute differences in form
regarding shapes, curves, angles and size
•  Form Perception The ability to see minute differences in angles,
forms, and size. Form perception or recognition takes place in the
visual cortex of the brain, not the eye.
Hyperdactyly

• characterized by the presence of more than the normal number of

fingers or toes
Brachydactyly

• Abnormal shortness of fingers and toes.

Macrodactyly

• Congenitally abnormal largeness of fingers or toes.

Oligodactyly

• Fewer than the normal number of fingers or toes. Oligo- is from the
Greek "oligos" (few or scanty) + -dactyly from the Greek "dactylos"
(finger) = few fingers. Oligodactyly is the opposite of polydactyly
which means too many fingers or toes.
Pentadactylous

• - The occurrence of five fingers or toes on a hand or foot.

Symphalangy

• End to end fusion of the phalanges of the fingers or toes.

Orthodactyly

• Fingers and toes cannot be flexed.

 TECHNIQUES IN TAKING FINERPRINT
IMPRESSIONS OF THe CLASSES OF
DECEASED OR DEAD PERSONS
 
 A. IN CASES OF NEWLY DEAD, where fingers are flexible, it is often
possible to secure inked fingerprint impressions through a regular
inking process on a standard fingerprint card.
It is convenient to cut the ten (10) “squares” numbered for
the rolled impression from a fingerprint card. After the finger is
inked, the square is rolled around the finger without letting up. After
all the inked impressions are properly taken, the ten (10) “squares”
bearing the impressions are paste or stapled to a standard
fingerprint card in their proper positions.
IN CASES WHERE RIGOR MORTIS

• B. (stiffening of the body) has set in and the fingers are tightly clenched, the fingers
maybe forcibly straightened by “breaking the rigor”. In the event the rigor can not
be completely overcome, secure a spoon shaped tool (spatula) for holding the cut
squares of the card while printing the fingers. In case the tips of the fingers are
fairly pliable and intact due to the presence of wrinkles in the skin where complete
impression can not be made, inject a tissue builder, glycerin or water.
• SCALPEL = use to cut finger joints of dead bodies
• XYLENE = a chemical which will readily clean grease and fatty matter from the fingers
• INCISION= the process of cutting the fingers for examination of ridge details
C. IN CASES OF BADLY
DECOMPOSSED BODIES,
 examine the fingers if they are all present, if not exert effort to determined
whether the missing finger is an amputation during the person’s lifetime or
whether the loss was due to destruction by animals or marine life. In making
examination, clean the fingers with soap and water then dry. Use a child’s
soft bristled toothbrush or a cotton swab to clean the fingers.

3 GENERAL TYPES OF FINGER CONDITION
 1. Decomposition of Putrefaction = prevalent in bodies found in bush or
buried in earth
 2. Desiccation or Mummification (dried out) = noted in bodies which have
been found in the open, in dry protected places or bodies subjected to
severe heat.
 3. Maceration (water soaking) = which ordinarily results from being
immersed in water.
 
D. IN CASES OF ADVANCE
DECOMPOSITION
 , removed the skin from the finger or cut the finger itself then soak it 10-15
percent of FORMALDEHYDE solution for approximately one (1) hour to
hardened it.
 
 GRAYISH WHITE = color of the skin treated with Formaldehyde solution
 = when the skin hardened sufficiently, wiped with a dry piece of cloth
then place to the operator’s owned fingers and held it in place by his other hand,
inked and rolled as though the operator were printing his own fingers.
 
 METHODS USED IN EXCISION OF THE FLESH FROM THE INSIDE OF THE FINGERS
 1. scrapping
 2. cutting
 3. trimming
 = if the skin is fairly pliable, the operator should attempt to place it over one of
his own fingers and try several points. If such point are not suitable, flattened
the skin between two (2) pieces of glass and photograph.
E. IN CASES OF DESICCATION OR
CHARRING DEAD BODIES,
• cut the fingers at the second joint and dissolved it in a Hydroxide,
Potassuim Hydroxide (potash) for 30 minutes. When it resumed its
normal size by the absorption of the solution, it is inked and printed.
• 
METHODS OF
COMPARING/IDENTIFYING PRINTS

• 1. ELECTRONIC FINGERPRINTING/AUTOMATED
FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AFIS) = this can
digitize fingerprint information to produce inkless
fingerprints. Latent fingerprints are scanned and converted
into an electronic image that is stored in a data base for
rapid retrieval.
Looking for minutiae
• 2. LIVE-SCAN METHOD OF FINGERPRINTING = it records, stores and
transmit fingerprints digitally. This method allows the police to place a
suspect’s finger on a glass plate which is read by a special device to
produce a digital image of the prints. The image can be transmitted over
a telephone lines to computerized criminal record centers.
• 3. LASER FINGERPRINTING = this eliminates the mess of inked
fingerprints and also many of the problems associated with it.
 FINGERPRINT SYSTEM = is an arrangement which in order to
effectively utilize fingerprints in criminal investigation, provides for
their systematic collection, classification/arrangement, custody and
use.
 
 TWO (2) SUB-SYSTEMS
 1. The Ten (10) Fingerprint System = whose basic material is
the ten fingerprints of the suspect whose purpose is to confirm the
identity and criminal history of an arrested suspect/s.
 2. Single Fingerprint System = whose basic material is the
fingerprint collected from the suspects individually.
 
FINGERPRINT SYSTEM

 = is an arrangement which in order to effectively utilize fingerprints

in criminal investigation, provides for their systematic collection,
classification/arrangement, custody and use.
 
 TWO (2) SUB-SYSTEMS
 1. The Ten (10) Fingerprint System = whose basic material is
the ten fingerprints of the suspect whose purpose is to confirm the
identity and criminal history of an arrested suspect/s.
 2. Single Fingerprint System = whose basic material is the
fingerprint collected from the suspects individually.
 
BASIC HENRY SYSTEM OF
CLASSIFICATION

 
 A.J RENOE EXTENSION = a modification of the Henry System of
classification.
 
 CLASSIFICATION = is the method of attaining a formula in a set of
Fingerprints placed in the Finger print chart/card.
 
 CLASSIFICATION FORMULA = is the numerical description in a set of
Fingerprints which is composed of letters and figures written above and
below the classification line like a fraction.
 
 CLASSIFICATION LINE = refers to the long line which is usually placed on the
right upper corner of the Fingerprint card/chart where Classification Formula
is written.
 
 
 RIGHT HAND
NUMBER 1 TO NUMBER 5
1 2 3 4 5
ULNAR RADIAL PLAIN WHORL ULNAR PLAIN ARCH

LEFT HAND
NUMBER 6 TO NUMBER 10

6 7 8 9 10
PLAIN WHORL ULNAR RADIAL CENTRAL PLAIN WHORL
POCKET
WHORL
 DIVISION OF THE CLASSIFICATION FORMULA
 1. Primary classification(SUMMIZATION OF WHORLS + 1/1
 2. Secondary classification
 a. Capital Letter Group (index fingers)
 b. Small Letter Group(four pairs of other fingers/RAT pattern)
 3. Sub secondary classification (Index, Middle, Ring fingers) <ridge
counts(I/O) and ridges tracing(IMO) transfer to symbol using the
table>
 4. Major Division(thumb fingers)
 5. Final classification(little fingers)
 6. Key (first loop)
• The position in the classification line for these divisions when applied are:
•  
• Key Major Primary Secondary Subsecondary Final
• Division Classification Classification Classification Classification
•  
• 10 S I U III 8
• S I U III
•  
 PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION

  
 Is the summation of the numerical value assigned to WHORL patterns appearing in the Fingerprint chart/card
which are expressed as Numerators and Denominators plus the pre-established fraction of 1/1(ARBITRARY
COUNT).
  
 WHY DO WE HAVE A PRE-ESTABLISHED FRACTION OF 1/1
 1. To give the numbered value groups placed in a file
 2. To avoid Zero over Zero numerical value or might be mistaken for a ridge tracing of Outer over
Outer.
  
 BLOCKING = is the process of writing below each Fingerprint pattern the corresponding symbol of its name.
 WHORLS = patterns with numerical values.
 LOOPS and ARCHES = patterns without numerical values.
 NUMERATOR = written above the line that constitute the total values of whorls appearing on the EVEN number
figures and appears in the Primary Classification (2,4,6,8,10 )
 DENOMINATOR = written below the line that constitute the total numerical values of whorls appearing on the
ODD number figures and appear in the Primary Classification (1,3,5,7,9 )
 = NOTE: If no whorls appear in the set of Fingerprints, an arbitrary count of 1/1 is given to both Numerator and
Denominator. 
FOUR (4) STAGES IN OBTAINING THE PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION
I. PAIRING = the ten (10) fingers are divided into five (5) corresponding pairs as follows:
a. 1st pair = right thumb and right index
b. 2nd pair = right middle and right ring
c. 3rd pair = right little and left thumb
d. 4th pair = left index and left middle
e. 5th pair = left ring and left little

FIRST PAIR SECOND PAIR THIRD PAIR

RIGHT HAND
1 2 3 4 5

LEFT HAND
6 7 8 9 10

THIRD PAIR FOURTH PAIR FIFTH PAIR

Block numbers 1 to 5 are for the Right Hand Fingers
Block numbers 6 to 10 are for the Left Hand Fingers
• II. ASSIGNED NUMERICAL VALUES TO CORRESPONDING WHORL FINGERS THAT ARE
PERMANENT
• These numerical values assigned to the corresponding fingers are permanent.
• Whorls appearing in the first pair have a numerical value of 16 for each whorl. Whorls
appearing in the second pair have a numerical value of 8 for each whorl.
• Whorls appearing in the third pair have a numerical value of 4 for each whorl. Whorls
appearing in the fourth pair have a numerical value of 2 for each whorl. Whorls appearing in
the fifth pair have a numerical value of 1 for each whorl.
• Table showing the numerical values in every pair with whorl-type patterns
RIGHT HAND
1 2 3 4 5
16 16 8 8 4

LEFT HAND
6 7 8 9 10
4 2 2 1 1
 III. TO KNOW THE NUMERATOR AND DENOMINATORS IN THE PAIRS
 The first pattern of every pair is the denominator while the second pattern of the pair is the
numerator. There are five numerators and five denominators in the pairs in a set of ten
fingerprints.

RIGHT HAND
1 2 3 4 5
Denominator Numerator Denominator Numerator Denominator

LEFT HAND

6 7 8 9 10
Numerator Denominator Numerator Denominator Numerator

 = Numerator (Even Nos. 2,4,6,8,10)

 = Denominator (Odd Nos. 1,3,5,7,9)
 IV. TO GET THE SUM TOTAL OF THE NUMERICAL VALUES OF THE WHORL
PATTERNS ASSIGNED IN THE SET OF FINERPRINTS PLUS THE ARBITRARY COUNT
OF 1/1 
 Ex: N = 16+8+4+2+1 = 31 +1=32
 D= 16+8+4+2+1 = 31 +1=32
 
 1,024 = possible combinations of PRIMARIES beginning 1/1 to 32/32.
 
 RULES FOR AMPUTATION OR FINGERS MISSING AT BIRTH
 
 1. If one (1) finger is amputated or missing at birth, its Fingerprint Pattern
is based on the OPPOSITE FINGER.
 2. If both fingers are amputated or missing at birth, they are considered
WHORLS with MEETING tracing. The rules are applicable to the six (6)
classifications.

 SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION

 Is based on the TYPES OF PATTERS appearing on the INDEX FINGERS of both hands
represented by CAPITAL and SMALL LETTERS GROUP.
 A. SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION BY CAPITAL LETTERS GROUP
 = it is executed by exhibiting the capital letter symbol of the individual type of
patterns from the two (2) INDEX FINGERS of both hands after the Primary Classification.
The Fingerprint appearing in the Right Index is the Numerator while on the left is the
Denominator.
 = A combination of the following SYMBOLS may appear as follows:
 a. Plain arch = “A”
 b. Tented Arch = “T”
 c. Radial Loop = “R”
 d. Ulnar Loop = U”
 e. Plain Whorls / Lateral Pocket loop= “W”
 f. Central Pocket Loop = “C”
 g. Double Loop = “D”
 h. Accidental = “X”
  
B. SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION BY
SMALL LETTERS GROUP
 = this refers to the three (3) types of Fingerprint patterns namely
PLAIN ARCH, TENTED ARCH AND RADIAL LOOP. Whenever any of
these patters appear in any finger except the INDEX FINGERS, the
symbol in small letter be exhibited in the classification line before
and after the CAPITAL LETTERS GROUP as follows:
 a. PLAIN ARCH = “a”
 b. TENTED ARCH = “t”
 c. RADIAL LOOP = “r”
 = WHEN TWO (2) OR THREE OF SAME FINGERPRINT PATTERNS
APPEAR, SUCH NUMBER AS THE CASE MAYBE, PRECEEDING SUCH
PATTERN IS WRITTEN.
 
 = WHEN A CERTAIN TYPE OF FINGERPRINT PATTERN INTERVENES
AND DOES NOT BELONG TO THE SMALL LETTER GROUP, THE PLACE
INTENDED FOR SUCH FINGER IS REPRESENTED BY A DASH (--) TO
SHOW OR INDICATE WHICH FINGER BELONGS.
SUBSECONDARY CLASSIFICATION

  This is derived through the process of ridge-counting the loops or ridge-

tracing the whorl type patterns appearing on the index fingers of both right
and left hands. Whenever loop patterns are shown on the above mentioned
fingers, each should be ridge counted and the result of such count in
number be displayed on the right upper corner of the block where found
and later on represented by a letter symbol (I or O) in the classification line
based on the inner and outer group division table for ridge counts of loops.
 Whorls are ridge traced and the result of such tracing is represented
by the letter symbols I, M, O (inner, meeting, or outer) on the table for
symbols of whorls for ridge tracing. The letter symbols are then placed on
the right upper corner of the blocks where found and later on the same
symbols are exhibited on the classification line.
 Under this classification, the right index, middle, and ring fingers are
numerators while the opposite fingers from the left hand are the
denominators. The plain arch and tented arch are neither ridge counted nor
ridge traced. They are merely represented by a dash (-) on the classification
line.
RIDGE COUNT
 = is the total number of ridge intervening between the Delta and Core.
  
 RULES IN RIDGE COUNT OF LOOPS
 1. Ridge Count always starts from the Delta towards the Core (but never includes the two in counting).
 2. Ridge/s are counted only when they actually crossed or touched the straight between Delta and Core. 
 a. Trifucation = 3 counts
 b. Bifurcation = 2 counts
 c. Criss Cross of Two Ridges = 2 counts
 d. Meeting of two (2) ridges = 2 counts
 e. Enclosure of Island = 2 counts
 f. Ending Ridge = only one (1) count
 g. Dot Ridge = one (1) count
 h. Long and short ridge = one (1) count
 RIDGE COUNTING OF WHORLS
 In counting ridges in whorl, the count is taken from the left delta to the core in the right hand and
from the right delta to the core in left hand.
  
Ridge counting
TABLE RIDGE COUNT FOR LOOPS

  1. INDEX FINGER

 a. 1-9 = Inner (I)
 b. 10 or more = Outer (O)
 2. MIDDLE FINGER
 a. 1-10 = Inner (I)
 b. 11 or more = Outer (O) 
 3. RING FINGER
 a. 1-13 = Inner (I)
 b. 14 or more = Outer (O)
 RIDGE TRACING

 = the tracing or tailing the ridge commencing from the LEFT

 DELTA going across towards the RIGHT DELTA or NEAREST
 DISTANCE to the RIGHT DELTA.
 TABLES FOR RIDGE TRACING IN WHORLS
 1. When three (3) or more intervening ridges goes INSIDE/
INFRONT THE RIGHT DELTA, the tracing is known as INNER (I).
 2. When there are two (2) or less ridges intervening, the
tracing is known as MEETING (M).
 3. When three (3) or more intervening ridges GOES
OUTSIDE/BELOW THE RIGHT DELTA, the tracing is known as OUTER
(O).
 RULES IN RIDGE TRACING

 1. Ridge tracing always starts from the Left Delta going to or

nearest the Right Delta.
 2. When the ridge being traced end up abruptly, the next ridge
below is treated as its continuity to affect the tracing.
 3. When the Left Delta is at the end of a ridge or on a Dot
ridge, the next ridge just below is tracked down to culminate the
tracing.
 4. When the ridge being traced “forks” into two (2) branches,
the lower branch is trailed until the tracing is consummated.
 MAJOR CLASSIFICATION
 = it is created by the RIDGE COUNT or WHORL TRACING of the THUMB PATTERNS which are
represented by CAPITAL LETTER SYMBOL (SML or IMO).
 = This concerns with the THUMBS of the hands and is placed just to the LEFT SIDE or
BEFORE the PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION.
 A. LOOPS = the ridge count of LOOPS appearing in BOTH THUMBS is indicated by symbols: S, M,
L.
 FORMULA 1 ( RIGHT THUMB ONLY )
 a. 1-11 = S
 b. 12-16 = M
 c. 17 or more = L
  
 NOTE : When LEFT THUMB has 17 or MORE Ridge Count, this FORMULA will apply to RIGHT
THUMB.

 FORMULA 11
 a. 1-17 = S
 b. 18-22 = M
 c. 23 or more = L
FINAL CLASSIFICATION

  Appear after the SUB-SECONDARY Classification at extreme right portion of the

classification formula.
 = The ridge count of LOOP or WHORL in both Little Fingers are expressed in
Number. The Right Little Finger is used as Numerator and the Left Little Finger as the
Denominator.
  
 RULES IN OBTAINING FINAL CLASSIFICATION
 1. If a LOOP appears in ONE (1) LITTLE FINGER and a WHORL in the other,
enumerate both their ridge counts by tracing the Whorl as an Ulnar for counting
purposes.
 2. If no LOOPS appear in any of the LITTLE FINGERS , a WHORL maybe used to
obtain a FINAL CLASSIFICATION counting from LEFT DELTA TO CORE IN THE RIGHT HAND
and from RIGHT DELTA TO CORE IN LEFT HAND.
 3. When there are two (2) or more CORES which usually apply to Accidental Whorls, the
ridge count is made from LEFT DELTA OF RIGHT HAND AND RIGHT DELTA OF THE LEFT
HAND TO THE CORE which is the least number of ridge distant from the Delta. In case of
DOUBLE LOOP, the ridge count is to be made from the Delta to Core of the UPRIGHT
LOOP, where DOUBLE LOOP are Horizontal, the nearest Core is used.
 4. In cases where BOTH LITTLE FINGERS are “a” or “t”, FINAL Classification is indicated by
a DASH (--) in Numerator or Denominator.
KEY CLASSIFICATION

 Is the ridge count of the FIRST LOOP appearing in the set of

Fingerprints on the Chart/Card beginning with the RIGHT THUMB but
excluding  both LITTLE FINGERS. If the set of Fingerprints are all
WHORLS, the RIGHT THUMB is treated as ULNAR LOOP for counting
purposes. Whatever ridge count is obtained, that is the KEY
CLASSIFICATION.= NOTE: First LOOP ridge count in the set of
Fingerprints except both little fingers is the KEY CLASSIFICATION.
 =EXEMPTION : If all the Fingerprints belongs to ARCH FAMILY, the
KEY CLASSIFICATION FORMULA would be represented by DASH (--).
FBI EXTENSIONS
  = In the FBI, the AGE Extension is utilized as a “Reference group” while a
“Presumptive Dead File” are maintained, however, a five (5) years allowance is
given to allow for a discrepancy on the prints bearing the ages 50 years old and
above.
 
 AGE GROUP
 1-54 = Regular File
 55-74 = Reference File
 74 and over = Presumptive Dead File
 
 REFERENCE SEARCHES
 50-54 = Reference to Reference File
 70-74 = Reference to Presumptive Dead File and Regular Files
 75-79 = Reference to Reference and Regular File
 80 and above = Reference to Regular File only
 CLASSIFICATION OF AMPUTATIONS
AND FINGERS MISSING AT BIRTH

 When one or more amputations appear upon a fingerprint card, it may be filed separately from those
having no amputations in order to facilitate searching. It is to be noted that before it may be filed in the
amputation group, the card must contain definite and unequivocal statement or marking by the contributor to
the effect that a certain finger or fingers have been amputated but which in reality were merely injured and
bandaged when previous prints were submitted.
 If one finger is amputated, it is given a classification identical with that of the opposite finger,
including pattern and ridge count, or tracing, and referenced to every other possible classification.
 If two or more fingers are amputated, they are given classifications identical with the fingers opposite,
with no additional references.
 If two amputated fingers are opposite each other, both are given the classification of whorls with
meeting tracings.
 When a fingerprint card bearing a notation of fingers missing at birth is classified, the missing fingers
should be treated as amputations in that they are given identical classifications of the opposite fingers and are
field in the amputation group. As these fingers are missing from a prenatal cause, they would have always
received the identical classification of the opposite finger on any previous occasion.
 If all ten fingers are amputated or missing at birth, the classification will be
 M 32 W MMM. If both hands are amputated or missing at birth, the footprints should
 M 32 W MMM
 be taken as they too, bear friction ridges with definite patterns. A footprint file is maintained by the FBI for
identification purposes in instances where the subject has all fingers amputated or missing at birth.
 LATENT PRINTS

  = these are chance impression found at the scene of the crime or on

items of investigative interest.
 Causes of Markings:
 ridges or raised strip of the epidermis
 Sweat or perspiration
 PERSPIRATION CONSISTS OF:
 a. Water (98 %) = sweat gland excreta
 
 b. Solid materials (2 %) salt, urea, oil/fats & acid = sebaceous excreta
Patent Print

• Friction ridge impression of unknown origin, visible without

development.
• A friction ridge impression that can be visualized without processing.
This may be deposited intentionally or unintentionally. 
Substrate

• The surface upon which a latent fingerprint is deposited or placed.

FACTORS AFFECTING LATENT
IMPRESSIONS

 1. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS
 Under this factor, too much exposure to the elements would reduce the chance of
their being recovered. Heavy condensed moisture such as rain, snow, or dew will
immediately erase fingerprints. Excessively high temperature caused by direct rays of the
sun during summer months can destroy them in a matter of few minutes. The winds due
to warm temperature will cause the disappearance of fingerprint evidence because of the
increased evaporation of watery substances. Dust accumulating on finger impressions also
obliterate identifying ridge characteristics.
 2. SUBJECT FACTORS (PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE INDIVIDUAL)
 Under this, we have the distinction of deciphering finger marks left by a male or
female human being. For those prints belonging to young female adults,friction ridges are
found to be finer than those of men. However, it was also found that fine ridges can be
seen on young and old and that manual labor has affected or strengthened the ridges.
 3. NATURE OF THE SURFACE
 Latent fingerprints left on a smooth non-porous surface like glass, metal, ceramic,
or enamel will formally retain their usefulness longer than those impressed on a porous
surface such as fabric, unpolished wood, paper and other rough surface objects.
 4. NUTRITION OR KIND OF FOOD THE BODY EAT
CATEGORIES OF LATENT PRINTS

 1. VISIBLE LATENT PRINTS = these are made by fingers smeared with

colored substances, such as blood, ink, grease, dirt or paint. Can be seen by
the naked eye without being developed. If the ridges happen to stand out
clearly in them, no powder or chemical development is necessary to be
made or any treatment to the print.
 a. Photographed
 b. Recorded in notes
 c. Must be sketched
 2. SEMI-VISIBLE LATENT PRINTS = these are molded or plastic
impressions made in plastic materials such as soap, melted candles, wax,
paraffin, adhesive gums to envelope, postage stamps etc.. These prints need
not be developed either, although photograph is more difficult than with
visible prints.
 3. INVISIBLE LATENT PRINTS = these are the most common type of
chance impression that can not be seen by the naked eye especially on
papers, card boards, box and can be developed by the use of the right kind
of powder and chemicals to make them visible.
Eccrine Gland

• Any of the numerous small sweat glands distributed over the body's
• surface that produce a clear aqueous secretion devoid of cytoplasmic
• constituents and important in regulating body temperature
Double Tap

• A subtle double impression where additional friction ridges will

coincide or be close to running in the same direction as the existing
ridge flow. Double taps are made in close time proximity to the first
friction ridge impression. Double Taps are made by the same finger.
Image Reversal

• An Image Reversal is when the friction ridges in a latent print are

reversed from the standard direction. This typically occurs in
unintentional transferred prints and on latents lifted with rubber
lifters.
Fabricated Latent Print

• A fabricated or falsified latent print is a latent print intentionally

manufactured by law enforcement personnel in order to enhance
the case against a suspect. This can be done by intentionally
mislabeling a print (latent or inked) as coming from an object at the
crime scene. Aka Falsified Latent Print. 
Forged Latent Print

• A forged latent print is the print of an innocent person planted at the

scene of a crime by the perpetrator in an attempt to implicate
another person. The latent print may be planted by transferring a
print from one surface to another or by touching an item with a mold
of someone else’s fingerprints. 
CRIME SCENE PROCEDURES

 PROTECTING THE CRIME SCENE

 The first duty of a fingerprint expert or technician when he arrives at the crime scene is to instruct
everybody to keep “HANDS OFF.” Crime scene protection is fundamental in criminal investigation and should be
initiated by the first officer upon arrival at the scene. It is necessary that adequate security measures should be
implemented to prevent the destruction of physical evidence. This is one of the most important phase in latent
print work. It is best to restrict the number of persons in the crime scene area by posting a sign or uniformed
policeman to prevent outsiders from entering.
  
 Photographs of the Crime Scene
 General view
 Distance shot and close-up shot of latent print
 Photographs of every object bearing latent prints
 Photographs of every latent print before lifting
  
 Sketch of the Crime Scene
 Sketch of locality – it gives a picture of the scene of the crime and its environment such as neighboring building
and road.
 Sketch of grounds- pictures the nearest physical surroundings like floor plan of the house.
 Sketch of details - describe the immediate scene only
  
 Things that may not be done in the crime scene
 Do not lift without taking photographs
 Do not lift on small movable object
 Do not remove object without taking photographs
 Do not place powder to the entire crime scene
 Do not develop visible latent print
  
 Crime Scene Procedures
 Check for injuries and summon the necessary aid
 Secure the crime scene
 Question all witnesses
 Photograph the entire crime scene
 Locate pertinent evidence BUT NOT COLLECTING YET
 Begin the search for fingerprints
 Prepare the crime scene sketch and
 Collect all the physical evidence
 Searching for latent prints
 Ken-saku – is the method of searching activities for finding scene fingerprints and where they are impressed.
Methods of Search:

 a. Strip method of search – a method applied if the shooting took

place in closed small area.
 b. Double strip method – a method applied if the shooting took place
in a bigger area.
 c. Spiral method – a method where the searcher follows each other
in the path of a spiral beginning on the outside and then spiraling in toward
the center.
 d. Wheel method – a method applied in crime scene search that the
searchers gather at the center and proceed in outward radii or spokes. This
procedure should be followed repeatedly depending on the size of the area.
 e. Zone method – a method applied if shooting incident took place in
a bigger area. This method can be adapted. The area is divided into zones
and each zone one of the above four methods may be used. This method is
very practical in outdoor shooting or in cases of running gun battles. One
searcher may be assigned in one zone.
 The technician would handle the aforementioned
marks in the following manner:

 1. Develop the mark by the use of powders, for those found on paper or
notebook
 make use of a chemical, ninhydrin is preferable.
 2. Photography is recommended. If the mark is quite faint or lightly seen,
attempt to
 enhance it by using powder to show some few ridges. Usually, it is not
advisable to
 brush because there is a tendency to destroy the marks. It is worth having
faint but
 decipherable marks than losing these by indiscriminate brushing.
 3. Here, again photography is needed. What is important is light arrangement.
 4. No development; photography is required.
 5. No development; again photography is required
 6. No development; a good photographic result may be obtained
 
WAYS AND MATERIALS USED IN
DEVELOPING AND LIFTING LATENT
PRINTS
 I- PHYSICAL OR POWDER METHOD (Application of Powder)
 = The powder used should/will contrast the color of the surface.
 A. WHITE POWDER = it applies on black and smooth surfaces.
 B. BLACK POWDER = it applies on white, smooth and light colored surfaces.
 C. SOOT = Alternative for Black Powder
 C. LYCOPODUIM POWDER = this is applied on leather surfaces and bags. It is directly placed on
the surface using a blower to spread the powder instead of a brush. It is also used to develop
latent print on human skin.
 1. Lycopoduim Powder
 2. Gelatin Paper
 D. GRAY POWDER = used on dark colored surface. Also used on mirrors and metals which have
been polished by the use of a fingerprint camera
 E. GOLD AND RED BRONZE = use to photograph dark surfaces and on light colored surfaces.
 F. DRAGONS BLOOD = a photographically neutral powder and maybe used in dusting light and
dark surfaces.
 G. GRAY BLACK POWDER = use on clear transparent glass or light surfaces.

Magnetic Powder (aka Magna Powder)

• Available since the early 1960's, magnetic powder is used to

process an object with the purpose of visualizing friction
ridge detail. Magnetic powder looks similar to regular black
powder but contains iron to establish a magnetic affect. It is
commonly black but is available in a wide range of colors.
Magnetic powder is best used on paper, plastic, glass, and
vinyl objects (any nonmagnetic surface) and is applied by
using a magnetic powder applicator. The advantage of using
a magnetic powder instead of a regular latent print powder
is that with magnetic powder the brush never touches the
latent print, avoiding possible damage to the latent print.
Also, magnetic powder doesn't become airborne as easily as
regular latent print powders, resulting in less powder being
inhaled by the user.
II. CHEMICAL METHOD

   A. VICTORIA BLUE = it is used to detect latent prints on leaves, scotch tape, masking tape
(kidnapping and rape cases). A dye can be a substitute for Victoria blue
 B. NIN HYDRIN SOLUTION = it is used to detect latent prints on absorbent materials.
 1. Ninhydrin Method = this is dependent upon the presence/traces of Amino acids
in human perspiration. It is applied by spraying, brushing or water soaking/dipping but
SPRAYING is the most effective method of application because after treatment, latent
prints may appear at room temperature in two (2) hours. However on old prints, this
solution is expedited by a. application of heat by the use of an electric steam iron and b.
blowing of hot air on the object. Once print is developed, it must be photographed and
properly marked for identification.
 2. Iodine Fuming = this employs the use of iodine gun/fuming cabinet made of
glass, usually found in any laboratory. Normally, specimens subjected to this technique are
equipped with tweezers and gloves. The iodine crystals are placed on the fuming gun
subject to mild heat which causes the crystals to vaporize and produced violet fumes. If
fats or oil are present, the ridges will appear in YELLOW-BROWN in color. Once print/s are
developed it must be photographed immediately and properly marked for identification.
 C. TETRAMETHYL BENZEDRINE (TMB) =it is used to developed bloody fingerprints.
  
Flame Technique

• Many common materials (e.g., camphor, magnesium, masking tape,

nito-cellulose, pine tar, titanium tetrachloride) burned to produce
soot for detection of friction ridge
• Hot Flame Method.
Muriatic Acid

• A chemical used to process thermal paper to develop friction ridge

detail. Also known as Hydrochloric Acid.
OTHER CHEMICAL METHODS OF
DEVELOPING LATENT PRINTS

 AMINO BLACK = is a dye sensitive to properties of blood and maybe used

with contaminated/visible prints involving blood. It has the capability to turn
blood proteins to a Blue-Black color.
 CRYSTAL VIOLET = it is used to develop latent prints on the adhesive side
of almost any kind of tape.
 8-DIAZAFLUREN-9-ONE (DFO) = similarly to Ninhydrin solution which is
three (3) times more effective in developing latent prints on paper.
 RHODAMINE 6G = this is an excellent fluorescent chemical dye used on
metals, glass, leather, plastic, wood and many other types of non-absorbent
surfaces.
 BASIC YELLOW 40 = it can effectively be used on surfaces such as cans,
leathers and plastics.

 III. GAS METHOD

 A. SUPER GLUE = it is used to detect latent prints on masking tape, leaves,
fruits, plastic materials. A MIGHTY BOND can be used as a substitute
Cyanoacrylate Ester

• A fuming technique used to develop friction ridge detail on

nonporous items, but does not interfere with the processing
of porous items. The cyanoacrylate ester polymerizes on
the components of the latent residue creating a white
impression.
• Heating cyanoacrylate ester decreases the development
time,
• but heating it above 400 degrees Fahrenheit generates
hydrogen cyanide (Identification
• Humidity and vinegar are both known catalysts to this
technique.
• Also referred to as superglue
Mikrosil ™

• A silicone-casting agent developed by Kjell Carlsson of Sweden. This

product is useful for lifting latent prints from textured or curved
surfaces. It also works well in recovering prints from the deceased.
Boiling Technique

• A method to re-hydrate the friction skin of a deceased person. In

this method water is boiled and then removed from the heat. The
hand is submerged in the water for approximately 5 seconds. If re-
hydration isn’t fully achieved the hand can be re-submerged for
another 5 seconds. The hand is then dried before attempting to
record the friction skin detail.
Hot Breath Method or Technique (aka
Huffing)
• Breathing on a latent print either to visualize the print or to infuse
moisture back into an older latent print.
LIFTING LATENT PRINTS

 LIFTING = the process of securing and preserving latent prints by the

use of an adhesive material known as “Fingerprint Lifter” which is done by
pressing the sticky surface against the latent impression that has been
powdered/dusted.
  
 REQUIREMENTS IN LIFTING
 a. Must be witness by two (2) competent persons.
 b. The time, date and signature of the technician must be recorded during
the lifting.
 PROCESS OF LIFTING
 = In either case, the card board paper, index card or glass surface where
the lifted latent print is mounted should contain the following: a. should
be properly marked with the date, time, location of the print was lifted b.
the case number and c. identification of the print technician. (rubber lifting
tape similar to tire patch can also be used)
LEGALITY OF FINGERPRINTING

  
 LEGAL ASPECTS OF FINGERPRINTING
 = As early as 1911 in People vs Jennings pass upon the admissibility of Fingerprint .
The court’s conclusion was based on the comparison of the photographs of such prints
with the impression made by the accused there being no question as to the accuracy or
authenticity of the photographs but gives weight on the testimony of the fingerprint
expert. By means of photographs alone of the fingerprint can be sufficient alone with the
identification of the fingerprints by an Expert to show these of the defendant.
  
 = In a California case (People vs Corall) the court stated that fingerprint is the
strongest evidence of the identity of the person/suspect.

 = In the Philippines (BILANGWA VS. AMADOR) a Fingerprint Expert and Constabulary

Seargent testified and successfully defended fingerprint evidence based on eight (8)
identical ridge points.
 PP VS MEDINA 59 Phil 330, the first leading Judicial decision in the Philippine
Jurisprudence on the science of fingerprint.
• Jennings (People vs. Jennings, Illinois, 1910)The first
State Supreme Court case to uphold the admissibility of
fingerprint evidence. Dec. 21, 1911, The Illinois State
Supreme Court upheld the admissibility of fingerprint
evidence concluding that fingerprints are a reliable
form of identification. Jennings, ThomasThomas
Jennings was the first person to be convicted of murder
in the United States based on fingerprint evidence. In
1911, Jennings appealed his conviction to the Illinois
Supreme Court, questioning the admissibility of
fingerprint evidence. TheIllinois Supreme Court upheld
his conviction concluding that fingerprint evidence is
admissible and a reliable form of identification.
Thomas Jennings was sentenced to death and executed
on Feb. 16, 1912 for the murder of Clarence B. Hiller. 
Betts case- Ohio 1917

• The Betts case may have been the first conviction based solely on
palm print
• evidence. In 1917, Samual W. Betts was arrested and charged with
burglary based
• on the fact that his palm print was found on a windowpane. George
Koestle (one
• of Ferrier's students) was the person who took and compared the
palm prints.
State of New York v. Crispi

• (1911)Aka People v. Crispi. Charles Crispi, aka Cesare J. Cella, was

the defendant in this case, which is noted as being the first case that
fingerprint evidence was the sole evidence.
State of New York v. Kent (1968)

• Aka People v. Kent. Perhaps the first trial that a defense expert
testified that although the identification had 12 (some articles say
14) points of similarity, the prints were not identical.
• Daubert Trilogy
• The 3 main Daubert cases that set the requirements for admissibility
of expert testimony.
• Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals (1993)
• General Electric Company v. Joiner (1997)
• Kumho Tire Company v. Carmichael (1999)
• 
 Brandon Mayfield - 2004
• Brandon Mayfield is a U.S. citizen who in May of 2004 was
wrongfully arrested as a material witness with regard to a
terrorism attack in Spain. His arrest was due to an erroneous
fingerprint identification made by 3 FBI Examiners, Michael
Wieners, John T. Massey, Terry Green and 1 private fingerprint
expert, Ken Moses. News reports indicate, "Court records show
that retired FBI agent, John Massey, who worked on the Madrid
case, was reprimanded three times by the FBI between 1969 and
1974 for errors, including twice making false fingerprint
• identifications."
• In November 2006 Mayfield was awarded a $2 million dollar
settlement by the U.S. Justice Department. The settlement also
included an apology and an agreement to destroy communications
intercepts conducted by the FBI against Mayfield's home and office
during the investigation. The Justice Department added that
Mayfield was not targeted because of his Muslim faith.
United States v. Byron Mitchell (1999)

• This was the first legal case where fingerprints evidence was
challenged at a Daubert hearing. The defense claimed that the state
had failed to establish the scientific validity of latent prints stating,
"Is there a scientific basis for a fingerprint examiner to make an
identification, of absolute certainty, from a small distorted latent
fingerprint fragment". The US District Court for the Eastern District
of Pennsylvania's decision was that the defense's motion to exclude
fingerprint evidence was denied. 
 Adalberto Izaquierdo Garcia (suspect)
• - Feb. 3, 2013
• On Dec. 11, 2012, Adalberto Izaquierdo Garcia was arrested on an
outstanding Jackson County, Missouri manslaughter warrant in a
crime that now even prosecutors concede he didn’t commit.
• While crossing the border between Mexico and Texas to attend his
mother’s funeral, Adalberto Garcia was arrested on a warrant for
Alberto Garcia. It was stated that his fingerprints
• matched those for the warrant. The fingerprints were double
checked and again reported to match those on file for Alberto
Garcia. On Jan. 28, 2013 the results of a DNA test were
• completed and showed that Adalberto Garcia was not the same
person as Alberto Garcia. The reason behind the error was not
reported.
 Hall-Mills Case (1922)(Trial, Nov. 1926)
• On Sept. 14, 1922 the Reverend Edward W. Hall and Mrs. Eleanor
Mills were murdered in Somerville, New Jersey. This quickly
became one of the most sensational investigations and trials in
American crime. The case involved sex, scandal, dramatic players,
a bungled investigation and a million dollar defense. Although
numerous articles and books have been written about this case, its
significance to the fingerprint community seems to have gone by
unnoticed. This is the case of the first known erroneous
identification. Retired Deputy Police Commissioner Joseph Faurot
(NYPD) along with Lieutenant Fred Drewen and Edward H.
Schwartz erroneously identified a latent print on key evidence to
one of the suspects, William Stevens. J.H. Taylor and Gerhardt
Kuhne (brother of Frederick Kuhne) testified for the defense in this
trial. All suspects were acquitted and this case remains unsolved
today.
The Spa Murders © (State of Florida v.
Stephen William Beattie (1978))
• The spa murders occurred on July 23, 1978 in North Miami Beach,
Florida. This case was the first case on record where a latent
fingerprint developed from a homicide victim's skin was identified
with an offender and introduced as evidence in court.  
State of Virginia v. Robert Douglas Knight
(1991)
• The first (case to establish a precedence for the acceptance of
digitally enhanced evidence in American criminal proceedings) is
Commonwealth of Virginia vs. Robert Douglas Knight.
• State of Washington v. Eric Hayden (1998)The 2nd court case in the
United States ruling on the computer enhancement of fingerprint
images.
Erroneous Exclusions and Erroneous No-
Values, known cases

• George Allen (suspect) - Nov. 3, 2012

• “Almost 30 years after George Allen was sentenced to 95
years in prison for the rape-murder of a woman in her St.
Louis home, a judge has reversed the convictions, saying
police
• withheld critical evidence favoring his innocence.”
• “… the judge relied upon several factors:
• -A police fingerprint technician erroneously testified that
seven key fingerprints “were of no value.”
• rior to making her statements.”
CAN YOU FORCE A PERSON TO BE
FINGERPRINTED?

• Yes, as long as the person is under legal arrest. If he resist, he

can be prosecuted for disobedience to an agent of a person in
authority, defined and penalized under Article 151 of the RPC.
 PREPARING FINGERPRINT FOR COURT
PRESENTATION
 PROCEDURES:
 a. Draw an oval with pencil around the print having at least one (1) inch margin.
 b. The point of the oval should be nearly equidistant from the margin of the point as possible.
 c. Marked with pencil and extend so as to touch the line forming the oval all around the print. (try to space your
radiating lines equally, so as not to make the work appear crowded in parts. This line should be drawn very lightly
so that correction will be made)
 d. Inked all the lines with Red or Black Indiana Waterproof Drawing Ink.
 e. Number each ridge characteristic consecutively in a clockwise direction around the print.
 f. The two (2) marked prints (Latent Print and Standard) and table of explanation should be mounted on a large
sheet of paper or chart so as to be in the best and most available form for explanation.( 12 characteristic prints is
enough to secure a conviction but it is well to point out as many characteristics as you can).
 = Determine whether the lifted and developed Latent Prints with the standard Finger Print card is of loop pattern,
whorl or arch either of the thumbs, index, middle, ring and little finger.
 = Start to point out the comparison by assigning numbers both of the enlarged photograph of the Latent Print and
the Standard Finger Print card placed side by side labeling the result of identical characteristics.
 = When you are called at the witness stand or called to explain what the various lines of ridge characteristics mean
and the numbers, same you will point them off or read them as done in your examination.
 = To prepare a set of enlargement for court presentation, take pains and mark them just as plainly as you know
them or how. The judge or lawyers that you are going to present the prints to and when you are going to convince
as to the innocence or guilt of the accused by your evidence presentation may have never seen or encountered
such case before. (use 8x10 inch photograph)
• B. Identification or Comparison
• 
• Procedures on Fingerprint Comparison and Identification
• 
• Preliminary Examination – sufficient ridge details
• Examination Proper – comparison of Q and S
• Photograph Examination – enlarged the prints

• 
• Four (4) Requisites in Comparison of Friction Ridges
• 
• General Pattern Agreement – eight types of pattern
• Qualitative Concordance – different ridge characteristics
• Quantitative factors – sufficient number
• Relationship of Ridge Details – location of the ridges
GYRO
• A color coded system of documenting the level of confidence that an examiner
has assigned to friction ridge details observed in fingerprint images. The level of
confidence refers to the analyst’s certainty of the existence of the feature and
the tolerance which has been assigned to that feature. This system was
developed by Glenn Langenburg in 2005 and published in 2011. GYRO is an
acronym for Green / Yellow / Red / Orange. Although these colors are used in
GYRO, other colors can be used as long as the meaning of the colors is
established.
•  (G)reen is used to note ridge details observed with high confidence levels.
• (Y)ellow is used to note ridge details observed with medium confidence levels
(details that may be associated with minimal distortion).
• (R)ed is used to note ridge details observed with a great deal of uncertainty
(details that may be on the edges or associated with high distortion).
• (O)range is used to note ridge details not observed initially in the analysis phase
of ACE-V but observed after observing the exemplar print, in the comparison
phase of ACE-V.
Quality/Quantity Relationship

• The two factors that combine in an inverse relationship to form the

basis for determinations of suitability or sufficiency of a friction ridge
impression. The more quality that is present, the less quantity is
necessary, and vice versa. 
Pressure Distortion

• Lateral pressure during deposition of a fingerprint.Quantitative-

Qualitative Friction Ridge Analysis, David R. Ashbaugh 1999 CRC
Press Pressure distortion may be described as deposition pressure
(downward pressure on the object), directional pressure (vertical,
horizontal, or twisting), or a combination of deposition and
directional pressure. 
Pincushion Method

• Also known as the Constellation Method. An obsolete method used

in the first half of the 20th century to confirm an identification. In
this method enlargements of the latent and known prints are used.
Pins are pushed through the enlargement at each ridge
characteristic. The holes on the reverse side are joined together and
the designs are compared.
The road to success is not straight.
There is a curb called Failure, a loop
called Confusion; speed bumps called
Friends; red lights called Enemies;
caution lights called Family. You will
have flats called jobs. But, if you have a
spare called Determination; an engine
called Perseverance; insurance called
Faith, and a driver called Jesus, you
will make it to a place called Success!!