PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION

COVERAGE OF PRESENTATION BASED ON PRC TOS 2022

1. Basic principles of personal identification
2. Application of dactyloscopy as the gold standard in personal
identification and other scientific and non-scientific techniques of
personal identification to crime detection and investigation
(recognition, collection, preservation, classification, comparison,
and identification of latent prints.
3. (Apply) Techniques in detection, collection, preservation of forensic
evidence relative to friction ridges and other means of personal
identification
4. (Utilize) Various forensic tools/equipment and employ systematic
methods (ACE-V method) in processing latent prints/friction ridge
details to ensure positive identification
5. (Demonstrate competence in the) Examination, identification, and
preservation of evidence communicated in format and in content
acceptable in court proceedings
Important Terms
1. Fingerprint as an impression. It is the reproduction on some smooth
surface of the pattern or design formed by the ridges on the inside of
the end joint of the fingers and thumb, through the medium of ink or
any coloring substance capable of producing visibility.
2. Fingerprint as a science. It is the identification of a person by means
of the ridges appearing on the fingers, on the palms and on the soles of
the feet.
3. Palm print. The impression or reproduction left on any material by
the friction skin of the palms.
4. Footprint/toe print. The impression or reproduction left on any
material by the friction skin of the foot/feet or toe/toes.
5. Friction skin. The skin on inner hands and fingers, and on the bottom
of the feet and toes, which is characterized by alternating strips of
raised ridges and furrows arranged in a variety of patterns.
6. Furrow. That portion of the skin lower and between the ridges.
7. Friction ridge. The raised portion of the skin that leaves the
impression or reproduction.
8. Dactyloscopy. It is the identification of a person through the
examination and comparison of fingerprints. It is also the classification
of fingerprints. It came from two Greek words “dactyl”, finger and
“copy,” study.
It is the identification of a person through the examination and
comparison of fingerprints. It is also the classification of fingerprints.
It is the study of fingerprint as a means of identification. A Greek
term that translate as “to view the fingers.”
9. Dactylography. It is the process of analyzing fingerprints. It is the study of identification by
means of fingerprint. A Greek term that translate as “finger writing.”
10. Dermatoglyphics. It is the study of the lines, tracing the designs of the ridges of the
papillary skin. A Latin term that translates as “skin carving.”
11. Forensic science?
This includes relating to or dealing with the application of scientific knowledge to legal
problems (modern definition of Webster). The application can be in one or more of many
specific fields of study or branch of specialized knowledge such as science, technology,
medicine, or other area of knowledge used to assist courts to resolve disputes, whether
criminal, civil, or administrative.
It is the scientific investigation into matters pertaining to law in the course of a crime. The
practice of matching people to people, or people to places, during the investigation of a
crime.
12. Identification. In forensic science is simply answering the question “what is
it?” while Individualization is the uniqueness of an object to the exclusion of all
other objects like itself. e. g. “What kind of salt is it?”
13. Exemplars. These are objects that are commonly encountered in
investigations or the possible real object that created the evidence.
e.g. If a tire tread is found at a scene, it becomes evidence. If a suspected car
is uncovered in the investigation, the tires on the car can serve as exemplars,
and each produced will be tested and measured to see if it could have produced
the tire tread from the scene.
14. Criminalistics. It is the application of forensic science to criminal matters.
Functions of the Personal identification Division of the Law Enforcement

The primary function of the fingerprint identification division is the

collection and scientific examination of fingerprint evidence of criminal
in nature and the compilation of laboratory report, preparation of
expert testimonies in court trials.
The secondary function is the maintenance of fingerprint files,
criminal and non-criminal, classification, searching and filing of
fingerprint cards submitted from the different police stations
throughout the country.
The Anatomy of Fingerprint
Fingerprint can be regarded as a special category of mark evidence.
The SKIN is the largest organ of the body. It provides our first line of
defense to infection and the mechanism for our sense of touch. Friction
skin provides grip to the hands and feet. In fact, the same friction skin
ridges that allow you to hold on an object.
“You do not always leave fingerprints.” People with very dry skin
may not make fingerprints when they pick up an object. The same is
true for someone who recently washed or dried his or her hands.
(Fisher, Tilstone, Woytocicz, 2009)
 PRINCIPLES INVOLVED IN THE
STUDY OF FINGERPRINTS
1. Principle of Individuality – There are no two fingerprints that are exactly alike.
Why Identical Twins Have Different Fingerprints?
By: Edward P. Richards, J.D. M.P.H, Professor of Law, UMKC, School of Law.
The fingertips are in contact with other parts of the fetus and the uterus, and their position
in relation to the uterus and the fetal body changes as the fetus moves on its own
and in response to positional changes of the mother. Thus, the environment of the growing
cells on the fingertip is influx (a flow), and is always slightly different from hand to hand and
finger to finger. More generally, the environment in the uterus affects the phenotypic
development of all parts of twin fetuses. Thus despite an identical DNA structure of the two
fetuses, a very careful examination of other physical characteristics will show that twins are
systematically different.
2. Principle of Permanency- The configuration and details of individual ridges
remain constant and unchanging.
Friction Skin
1. Epidermal layer (Epidermis)
a. Stratum corneum = It consists of 25-30 layers of stratified (layered)
squamus (flattened) dead keratinocytes (skin cells) that are constantly shed.
b. Stratum lucidum = It is present in thick skin (lips, soles of feet, and palms of
hands). Little or no cell detail is visible.
c. Stratum granulosum = It consist 3-4 layers of cell thick consisting of
flattened keratinocytes. At this level, the cells are dying.
d. Stratum Spinosum = These are several layers thick, consisting mostly of keratinocytes.
Together with the stratum basale, it is sometimes referred to as the Malpighian Layer (living
layer).
e. 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.
e. 1 Keratinocytes (90%) = Responsible for waterproofing and toughening the skin.
e. 2 Melanocytes (8%) = Synthesize the pigment melanin which absorbs and disperses
ultraviolet radiation.
e. 3 Tactile cells = Very sparse and function in touch reception.
e. 4 Nonpigmented granular dendrocytes = Cells that inges bacteria and foreign debris.
2. Dermal Papillae = The primary function is to sustain and support the epidermis. It is made up
of connective tissue with fine elastic fibers.
Importance of knowing the two layers of the skin
Damage to the epidermis alone does not result to permanent ridge
destruction, while damage to the dermis will result to permanent ridge
destruction.
Can fingerprints be effaced or erased?
John Dellinger, a notorious gangster and a police character attempted to
erase his fingerprints by burning them with acid, but as time went by, the ridge
were again restored to their natural feature. The acid he applied temporarily
destroyed the epidermis of the bulb of the finger.
As long as the dermis of the bulbs of the fingers are not completely
destroyed, the fingerprints will always remain unchanged and indestructible.
General Rules on Ridge Destruction
1. Destruction of the epidermis –Temporary
2. Destruction of the dermis - Permanent
3. Cut more than 1mm will constitute a permanent scar
Can fingerprint be forged?
Various experiments were conducted by authorities and although
they could almost make an accurate reproduction, still there is no case
on record known or have been written that forgery of fingerprints has
been a complete success. The introduction of modern scientific
equipment, new techniques, and up-to-date knowledge in crime
detection will always fail the attempt.
3. Principle of Infallibility – Fingerprint evidence is reliable. The following are the
reasons why fingerprint is one of the infallible means of personal identification.
a. Fingerprints are already formed about 3 to 4 months of intra-uterine life and
remain unchanged throughout life until the final decomposition of the body after
death.
b. The pattern formation formed by the papillary ridges contains peculiar
characteristics upon which a person can always be identified by fingerprint examiners.
c. Almost every police and law enforcement agencies throughout the world accept,
adopt, and utilize fingerprint system as a means of absolute identification of a person.
d. The courts and other authorities had since time immemorial taken cognizance of
its importance as a means of identification.
 Uses of Fingerprints and their Application to Law Enforcement

1.Identification of criminals whose fingerprints are found at the crime scene.

2.Identification of fugitives through comparison of fingerprints. Exchanging of
criminal identifying information with identification bureaus of foreign
countries in cases of mutual interests.
3.Accurate determination of the number of arrests and convictions which, of
course, results in the imposition of more equitable sentences by the judiciary,
thus enabling the prosecutors in defending their cases in the light of
defendant’s previous records.
4.Furnishing identification data to probation or parole officers and to parole
boards for their enlightenment in decision making
5. Means of personal identification.
6. Identifying amnesia victims, missing persons and unknown deceased
if their fingerprints are on file.
7. Prevention of hospital mistakes in the identification of infants (in
some countries).
8. Personal identification in disaster work.
9. Licensing procedures to automobiles, firearms, aircrafts and other
equipment.
Purpose
The ultimate purpose of fingerprints is to provide the most positive
means of personal and criminal identification.
Allied Sciences of Fingerprint
1. Poroscopy – The science which deals with the study of the pores
found on the papillary or friction ridges of the skin for the purpose of
identification.
The method was discovered and developed by Edmond Locard in
1912. Locard observed that like the ridge characteristics, the pores are
also permanent, immutable and individual, and these are useful to
establish the identity or otherwise of individuals when available ridges
do not provide sufficient ridge characteristics.
2. Chiroscopy – The science of palm print identification.
3. Podoscopy - The science of footprint/footwear identification.
COMPONENTS OF FRICTION SKIN
1. Ridge surface
= Ridge- the elevated or hill-like structure/ the black lines with white dots
= Furrows-the depressed or canal-like structure/ the white space between ridges
2. Sweat pores
= The tiny opening/ the tiny white dot
3. Sweat duct
= The passage way
4. Sweat gland
= The producers of sweat
Types of Ridge Formations
1. Bifurcating Ridge - A single ridge that splits into two forming a “Y”
shape.
2. Diverging Ridges – Two ridges running side by side and suddenly
separating, one ridge going one way and the other ridge going another
way.
3. Converging Ridge – These are two ridges that meet at a point forming
an angle.
4. Recurving Ridge – A single ridge that curves back in the direction from
where it started.
Basic and composite ridge characteristics (minutiae)
A ridge ending is one end of a long island. The island is long enough
that the ends are not easily recognized as being from the same island.
A bifurcation is where the ridge path divides forming a Y shape with
legs having the same length.

A ridge dot, one ridge unit, is the shortest of all island and the building
block of the friction ridge.
A lake (enclosure) is a bifurcation which does not remain open but
which the legs of the bifurcation after running along side for a short
distance come together to form a single ridge once more.

A spur is where the ridge path divides and one branch comes to an end
(leg is shorter).
 A short ridge has two or more ridge units with both ends easily
recognized as being from the same island.

A ridge bridge (cross) is a connecting ridge between two ridges.

A double bifurcation is a bifurcation where one of the ridge path

bifurcates.
A trifurcation is a when two bifurcations develop next to each other on
the same ridge, a unique formation.

An opposed bifurcation are bifurcations found on both ends of a ridge.

A ridge crossing is the point where two ridges crosses each other
forming an “X” formation.

An overlap is where two ridges ends meet and overlap.

Type Lines and Pattern Area (John Edgar Hoover -FBI Director, The
Science of Fingerprint)
Type lines or skeleton of the pattern are two innermost ridges
which start parallel, diverge, and surround or tend to surround the
pattern area. They serve as basic boundaries of a fingerprint pattern.
Type lines are not always two continuous ridges. In fact, they are
more often found to be broken. When there is a definite break in a type
line, the ridge immediately outside of it is considered as its
continuation.
 Pattern area is the part of a loop or whorl in which appear the
cores, deltas, and ridges. For arches, in many cases, it is impossible to
define.
Core and Delta Location (John Edgar Hoover -FBI Director, The Science
of Fingerprint)
The core and delta are the focal points of fingerprint patterns
except in arch pattern
The core is a point on the ridge formation usually located at the
center or heart of the pattern. The core is also known as inner
terminus.
 A delta or outer terminus is a point on the ridge formation at or
directly in front or near the center of the divergence of the type lines.
Ridge Counting and Ridge Tracing (John Edgar Hoover-FBI Director, The Science
of Fingerprint)
Ridge Counting = It refers to the process of counting the ridges that touch or
cross an imaginary line drawn between the core and the delta. It is the number
of ridges intervening between the delta and the core. Neither the delta nor
core is counted.
In the event there is a bifurcation of a ridge exactly at the point where the
imaginary line would be drawn, two ridges are counted.
Where the line crosses as island, both sides are counted.
Fragments and dots are counted as ridges only if they appear to be as thick
and heavy as the other ridges in the immediate pattern.
12 Counts
Ridge Tracing = It is the process of tracing the ridge that emanates from
the lower side of the left delta to the right delta to see where it flows in
relation to the right delta.
 Pattern Interpretation

A. LOOPS (65 % appearance)

1. RADIAL LOOP = A loop is radial when the opening end of the loop
ridge points in the direction of the thumb side of either the left or right
hand.
2. ULNAR LOOP = A loop is ulnar when the opening end of the loop ridge
points in the direction of the little finger side of either the left or right hand.

The term “radial” and “ulnar” are derived from the radius and ulna
bones of the forearm.
B. WHORLS (30 % appearance)
1. PLAIN WHORL = A fingerprint pattern in which there are two deltas
and in which at least one ridge makes a turn through one complete
circuit. Imaginary line drawn between the two deltas must touch or
cross at least one of the circuiting whorl ridges within the pattern area.
2. CENTRAL POCKET LOOP WHORL = A fingerprint pattern which form
the most part of a loop, but which has a small whorl inside the loop
ridges, sometimes called a “composite pattern” which means that it is
made up of two patterns in one, a whorl inside a loop.
It has two deltas, one which appears at the edge of the pattern area
as in loop and one which shows inside the pattern area just below the
counterpart ridges.
3. DOUBLE LOOP WHORL = A fingerprint pattern consisting of two separate
and 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 a composite or combination of
two patterns in one with two cores and two deltas.
The two loops in a double loop whorl need not comply with all the
requirements for a loop pattern that no ridge count is necessary for both
loops in the formation.
The two loops do not have the same length nor the same size. All that is
required is that there be two separate and distinct loop formation, two sets
of shoulders and two deltas.
The distinction between twinned loops and lateral pocket loops made by Henry and adopted by other authors
has been abandoned by the Federal Bureau of Investigation because of the difficulty in locating and tracing the
loops. Both types have been consolidated under the classification “double loop.” (John Edgar Hoover (FBI
Director), The Science of Fingerprint)
4. ACCIDENTAL WHORL = A fingerprint pattern that is a combination of
two or m ore different types of pattern except in plain arch. It can be a
combination of 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 the double loop whorl, some
authors call accidental whorl “composites.”
Unlike the other whorl type patterns, an accidental whorl can be
having two, three or four deltas. An accidental whorl pattern is one that
looks like a conglomeration of ridges.
 C. ARCHES (5 % appearance)
1. PLAIN ARCH = A fingerprint pattern in which the ridges enter on one
side of the pattern and flow towards the other side, with a rise in the
center.
2. TENTED ARCH = A variety of arch family but their ridge formation are
not so simple as those of a plain arch, also considered “transitional
pattern” between a plain arch and a loop.
What is a latent print?
Latent fingerprints are the unintentional impressions that are left at crime
scenes, which are considered to be highly significant in forensic analysis and
authenticity verification
These are traces of sweat, oil, or other natural secretions on the skin, and they
are not ordinarily visible.
Latent prints are impressions produced by the ridged skin, known as friction
ridges, on human fingers, palms, and soles of the feet
LATENT PRINT is a GENERAL TERM used in Personal Identification meaning all
Friction Ridge Areas, (Fingers, Palms and Feet) and all types of chance imprints
and impression)
It is also called chance impression, unknown print, crime scene print.
How do latent fingerprints occur?
When criminals work, they cannot avoid leaving clues in the form of
fingerprints unless they wear gloves or some other form of protection.
Prints may be produced when someone takes hold of an object or
supports themselves with their hands. Prints are formed by friction
ridges, which deposit grease and perspiration on the object touched.
Prints may be formed when fingers are contaminated with foreign
material, such as dirt, blood, grease or when the fingers are pressed
against some plastic material and produce a negative impression of the
pattern of the friction ridges.
Where to look for latent prints?
In robbery investigations, the perpetrator’s point of entry should be
at the beginning area to start a search for prints. If a door was broken
open, prints (including shoe prints) may be located on the lock, the
immediate surroundings, or other places on the door where the entry
had been forced. With broken windows, particular attention should be
given to search for pieces of broken glass, which are useful for standards,
may contain prints or blood. Fingerprints may be left on the inside of the
window sill, the window frame, and jamb when the perpetrator climbs
through the window and grips these parts of the window frame.
 Searches of fingerprints should be made in areas where the
perpetrator is suspected to have eaten or had a drink. Prints on glass
are generally of good quality. If he removed liquor bottles from the
scene, prints may be found on glasses or on bottles that were moved
and examined by him.
Light switches, circuit breakers, and fuses should always be
examined as well as any light bulbs that were loosened or removed. If
the thief used the toilet, he might removed his gloves if he is wearing
such. Prints should be examined for on the toilet – flush lever, on the
door lock, and on any paper that might have been used.
 Thieves sometimes bring tools or other objects to the scene and
leave them behind. Fingerprints may be detected on papers used to
wrap tools, on flashlight (don’t forget to examine the batteries), and
other items such as the inside of latex gloves. All smooth surfaces on
which prints could be left should be examined. When examining
furniture, do not omit places the criminal may have touched when
pulling out drawers, or moving the furniture.
THREE TYPES OF CHANCE IMPRINTS OR IMPRESSIONS
1. Visible or patent prints – These are made by fingers smeared with
colored substances such as blood, ink, grease, dirt, or paint.
Patent impressions are visible and usually need no enhancement.
They are simply photographed and the item that they are deposited
on is collected if necessary. The photograph and or object actually
becomes the investigators lift.
2. Plastic – A plastic or molded impression is deposited when the hands,
fingers, or feet is pressed into a soft rubbery type material that will retain
the impression of the ridge detail. Plastic impressions are visible and
molded. These must be photographed with side (oblique) lighting. Plastic
prints result from friction ridges pressing into some plastic material such as:
soft putty, soft wax, soap, tar, plastic explosives, butter, grease, etc.
3. Latent print – The skin has deposits of oil and perspiration that
normally coat the surface. When the hand touches the surface, some
of the moisture is transferred from the hand to the object, leaving an
impression of the friction ridge detail. These are referred to as latent
impressions. On most surfaces the latent impressions are not readily
visible. This must be developed either with fingerprint powder or
chemicals. Latent prints are the results of the secretions from the skins
pores due to perspiration. The secretion is composed of 99% water and
1 % oily acids and salts.
 Conditions Affecting Latent Prints

1. Type of surface. The best surface is smooth, clean and glossy or

nonporous. Coarse cloth, grained leather, unfinished wood and
stippled surfaces generally are poor candidates.
2. Manner in which the object was touched. If the finger moves
slightly while in contact with the object, ridge detail may be lost and
distorted beyond usability, Many times the pattern area may be
smudged but other areas may be clear.
3. Weather. This may dry out or wash away the print, especially if
the print is on an exterior surface.
4. Humidity. This may cause print to be absorbed into a surface or to dissipate.
5. Perspiration. This may obliterate print if both ridges and valleys are covered. The more
oil deposited with perspiration, the longer the latent print will last. Oil is transferred to
the fingers from the hairy area of the body. Frequently, there is no oil in the perspiration
of the finger.
6. Use of the object. Was the object simply handled and set down? Was the object used
as a weapon? Was the object used as a pry tool?
7. Care of the suspect. Most suspects are not concerned about the way in which they
handle items. Suspects are usually in a hurry in a burglary or other crimes, and as such,
they are not careful about what they do and how they do it.
DETERMINING AGE OF LATENT PRINTS ON A SURFACE

Many times, the question regarding the age of a latent print arises. To date,
there are no scientific tests to determine the age of a latent print on a surface. A
number of factors affect the life of a print on a surface such as weather
conditions, air temperature, degree of humidity, condition of surface, condition of
subject's friction ridges, etc. Occasionally the experienced investigator, after
considering the factors which affect the life of a print, can make a reasonable
determination as to the possible age of a latent print. For example: most recently
touched surfaces will generally react very quickly to mechanical (powder)
processing.
 A good crime scene management technique will require the investigator to perform
four or five tasks, depending on the extent of the scene and the evidence.
1. Observation: Do a cursory walk through the scene, preferably with someone who is
intimate or familiar with the scene. People live different lifestyles and under varied
conditions. The investigator is not there to make judgments on living conditions, but
rather to act in the capacity of a professional and identity and develop the evidence.
2. Evaluation: What is of evidentiary value? What will be the best method to deal with
the evidence? What is the evidence saying? How was the evidence used? Good
investigators will ask themselves: “What was touched, used, or altered during the
commission of the crime by the suspect, victim, or both?” What are the safety issues
associated with the scene and evidence?
3. Documentation: How will the scene best be documented? What is important and
what is extraneous? Which documentation technique should be utilized—
photography, notes, or diagrams? Should all three be utilized? What is being
depicted? Will the photographs be a true and accurate representation of the
scene? Do I need to shoot overalls, medium, close up, or identification photos?
4. Collection: What should be collected? How will the item be collected? Do I have
appropriate containers? Do I have sufficient numbers of containers? What safety
issues are involved? Are there bloody prints? Transportation issues?
5. Analysis: Which technique will be used? Will the development be better
performed at the scene or in a controlled environment? What are the safety
considerations?
 How a Crime Scene Investigation is Conducted

1. Establish the scene dimensions and identify potential safety and health
hazards - Investigators initially locate the “focal point” of the scene, the main area
of disturbance such as:
* ransacked bedroom * weapons
* the area where an attack occurred * biohazards
* or the room in which a victim was found * chemical hazards
* potential paths of perpetrator entry/ *intentional traps
* exit are identified
2. Establish security
* secure the area (Police line)
* common entry way is established
* document all people entering and leaving the area
*additional areas for consultation and evidence storage may also be
established if necessary (Command Post)
3. Plan, communicate and coordinate
* Investigators must first develop a theory regarding the type of offense that
occurred
* Gathering information from witnesses or persons of interest
* Based on this information, the crime scene team will develop an evidence-
collection strategy taking into consideration weather conditions, time of day and
other factors
* Additional forensic resources may also be requested to handle special
situations
4. Conduct a primary survey/walkthrough
* The purpose is to prioritize evidence collection
* The lead investigator will identify potentially valuable evidence, take notes
and capture initial photographs of the scene and the evidence
* The crime scene is documented to record conditions such as whether lights
were on or off, the position of shades and doors, position of movable furniture, any
smells present, the temperature of the scene, etc.
* To facilitate this process, crime scene specialists may create an evidence-free
pathway leading to the primary area of interest by conducting a thorough sweep
for evidence in that area.
5. Document and process the scene
* This entails detailed documentation with digital and video cameras or, if
available, a 3-D scanner.
* For some situations, sketches and diagrams are also created.
* During the evidence-collection process, it is crucial that the crime scene
investigator follow proper procedures for collecting, packaging and preserving the
evidence, especially if it is of a biological nature (Method of crime scene search).
* Biological evidence can be destroyed or damaged by weather conditions,
individuals can inadvertently contaminate it, or it can be overlooked entirely if
alternate light sources are not used to inspect the scene.
6. Conduct a secondary survey/review - To ensure that the scene has been
thoroughly searched, a second survey of the area is conducted as a quality
control step (Final survey).
7. Record and preserve evidence - To make certain that all evidence is
accounted for, an inventory log is created. The descriptions recorded into the
log must match the photo of the evidence taken at the scene and the
description included in the crime scene report. For instance, if a gun is
collected, the serial number of the firearm in the evidence log must match the
serial number shown in the photo that was taken at the scene. This paper trail
establishes the chain of custody that will follow the evidence throughout the
lifecycle of the case.
 Searching for Chance Impressions

1. Precaution is important, do not remove the object from original

position or touch by bare fingers anything that requires fingerprint
examination.
2. Search of latent print should be conducted in a systematic way and
intelligent manner.
3. Attention should be given to object, such as guns, door knobs,
glasses, window, papers, bottles, to protect and preserve any latent
print developed.
4. Amount and quality of powder to be used. The purpose is to
develop latent prints that can be classified, analyzed and identified
 Things that must not be done at the crime scene

1. Do not lift developed latent prints without photographing.

2. Do not lift latent print on small movable object.
3. Do not remove object without photographing.
4. Do not powder the entire crime scene.
5. Do not develop visible latent prints.
 Pointers to give fingerprint evidence probative value

1. Is the latent print really lifted from the crime scene of the particular
crime in question? This should be supported by a sketch, photographs
and testimonies of witnesses.
2. Is the latent print really left at the crime scene by the suspect during
the commission of the crime? Is there any evidence to the contrary?
3. Is there any possibility of tampering or substitution of the lifted
latent prints from the time of lifting to the time of examination?
(Observance of proper marking and chain of custody of evidence)
4. Is the standard fingerprint really taken from the suspect or is it there
any doubt in the authenticity of the standard fingerprint? (Signature of
the suspect and the technician on the standard prints)
REASONS WHY LATENT PRINTS ARE NOT ALWAYS FOUND AT SCENES

Latent prints are not easily left on or in a surface. It does not follow
that if a person touches a surface that he will automatically leave a
latent print. Consider the following reasons.
1. Some people do not perspire and, therefore, do not secrete body
fluid from the skin pores which is sometimes necessary to leave friction
ridge patterns on or in a surface.
2. Some surfaces are not conducive to latent prints. For example:
stippled surfaces (most safes have this finish), grained leather or some
plastic items, engraved gun grips, etc. In some instances, ridge detail
might be detected with the naked eye on these articles. However, upon
closer examination with a fingerprint magnifying glass, the ridge
characteristics are not distinct in that they are obstructed by the design
of the surface.
3. Weather has an effect on latent prints.
a. sunlight and heat will dry the secretions left on or in a surface.
b. cold prevents perspiration, therefore, little or no secretion occurs.
c. latent prints on a surface will freeze (perspiration is 99% water)
when the temperature is approximately 32°F. or below. If a surface is
cold enough to freeze prints, it is best to gradually warm the article to
room temperature before processing it.
4. Dust and dirt affect latent prints. These substances may
a. dry the hands and fingers leaving no medium to transfer the
friction ridge impressions on or in a surface.
b. fill the furrows between the friction ridges resulting in a fingermark
which lacks ridge detail.
5. Liquids and moisture can cause the secretions to become too
watery, thereby, distorting the latent print. For example: a drinking
glass which was dry when handled and subsequently became moist
from condensation will ordinarily retain the prints on its surface.
6. Size of surface can be a factor which affects the latent print. For
example: a surface area smaller than the head of a thumb tack will
usually not contain enough fingerprint characteristics for identification.
7. Superimpose of several latent prints (one on top of another) are
usually of no value. Superimposes are found on constantly used
surfaces such as door knobs, handles, telephones and other heavily
used surfaces and or items. Superimposes can accumulate on a surface
over a period of time. Identification of the superimposed print is
difficult because the ridge characteristics cross one another and are not
distinct.
8. Hand covers may prevent an individual from depositing his prints on
a surface. Gloves, socks, long sleeved shirts, bandages, plastic spray.
nail polish, etc., are considered hand coverings; they prevent the
friction ridges from coming in direct contact with a surface leaving only
fabric, leather or other ridge less fingermarks. '
9. Pressure or movement can result in a distorted print on a surface.
Too much pressure applied to a surface will cause friction ridges to
spread distorting their characteristics, whereas movement during
contact with a surface can cause the latent print to smear.
 LATENT PRINT DEVELOPMENT

FINGERPRINT POWDERS AND THEIR USE ON SMOOTH, NON· POROUS

CONTRASTING SURFACES (Principle of Contrast)
1. Black powder has a carbon-black base plus a wetting agent. The wetting agent
allows an even and efficient flowing of the powder.
2. White powder consists mainly of some form of chalk plus a wetting agent.
There are numerous other colored powders available namely:
a. Silver and gray which are most useful on glass and metallic surfaces, these
powders photograph well.
b. Gold, copper (both have excellent adhering qualities) and red are
useful on multi-colored surfaces because they enhance photography.
Choice of a particular powder to be used on a surface is determined
by the individual investigator's expertise and availability of the powder.
3. Ferromagnetic powders are finely ground metal fillings mixed with a finely
divided colored powder. This powder is especially good when the investigator is
seeking latent prints from most recently touched porous surfaces such as paper,
cardboard, wood, leather or other small non-metallic surface(s).
Ferromagnetic powder is used simply by dipping a magnetic wand into a jar
containing the metal filings and powder, thereby, forming a bristle like brush
which is gently applied over a suspected latent surface. After the surface has
been processed for prints the excess powder, unlike conventional powder which
should be discarded after use, is picked up with the magnetic wand and
deposited back into the jar.
4. Fluorescent powders are used for contrast on multi-colored
nonporous surfaces. Use of fluorescent powders involve photographing
the processed surface with ultra-violet light so that the prints become
visible in a neutral color.
NOTE: The components of fingerprint powders are trade secrets
among the various manufacturers.
 TOOLS USED FOR DUSTING, PHOTOGRAPHING AND LIFTING LATENT
PRINTS

1. Feather dusters usually made from turkey feathers are used almost exclusively
by the Crime Scene Unit investigators. Feather dusters of this type are excellent
for processing larger surfaces more quickly and efficiently.
2. Camel, Pony or Goat hair brushes (Bristle length approximately 2") are used for
dusting small areas or items and to 'clear out' an 'over-powdered' latent print.
3. Fiberglass brushes have the capacity to retain large quantities of fingerprint
powder, thereby, eliminating the need for constant powder replenishment.
Fiberglass brushes are good for processing most surfaces. They can be cleaned by
washing and reused.
4. Magna Brush Wand is for use with ferromagnetic powder. [There are a variety of
other brushes and dusters on the market which can be used depending on the
individual investigator's preference. However, the feather duster and/or camel's
hair brush is sufficient for processing most surfaces.]
5. Hand magnifying glass of sufficient size, in conjunction with a small light
(flashlight or 'Hi-Lo' intensity lamp) should be used to inspect a surface for latent
prints.
6. Polaroid Land Camera, Model CU 5 (for 1 to 1 photography), which uses #107 or
#667 black and white Polaroid film, is used to photograph a latent print on a flat
accessible surface. (This is replaced with the SLR)
 Safety and Do's and Don'ts

1. Remove any excess powder from the surface of the

developed impression before applying the lifting tape.
This can be done by blowing on the surface, using a small
can of compressed air or brushing lightly in the opposite
direction over the area. This assures a clean lift with no air
pockets (fish eye).
2. Wear a respiratory (dust) mask, gloves and eye protection when
working with powders of any kind for a prolonged period. It is
important that the investigator/technician be aware of the tools that
they are using in the field as well as in the laboratory. The
Manufacturer Safety Data sheet (MSDS) is available with all products
and should be read on any items used by the technician/investigator.
This will assure that the investigator is aware of any potential safety
hazard that might exist with the products being used. Safety should be
the top priority for the investigator.
3. Never hold the bristle part of the brush. The brush should be free
of any oil or contaminates. This assures the technician/investigator
does not have a brush with hardened bristles that will rub out or
destroy the print.
4. Never reach up to apply powder to an item above you. Use a
ladder or step stool to keep the processing procedure below eye level.
Small powder particles may cause irritation and/or infection to the
eyes.
APPLICATION OF FINGERPRINT POWDER ON A SURFACE

1. The feather duster or brush and the surface to be processed must be

dry. The surface should be at room temperature for best results.
2. Choose a powder that will contrast with the surface to be processed.
3. Pour a small amount of powder onto a clean dry receptacle, such as
a piece of paper or cardboard, or into an envelope from which powder
may be taken during the processing procedure. Re-seal the powder
container that contains unused powder so that moisture will not cause
it to become lumpy and difficult to use.
4. Protect the area surrounding that which is to be processed from
becoming unduly soiled, i.e. floors, furniture, appliances, etc...
Newspapers or other disposable materials are a good source of
protection.
5. Gently dip the feather duster or brush into the powder.
6. Carefully dust or brush the powder onto the suspected surface
7. If friction ridges start to appear, continue dusting or brushing in the direction of
the ridges.
8. Add powder to the surface as necessary. Avoid using too much powder, a
common fault. This tends to paint or fill-in the furrows or valleys of the print,
thereby, obscuring ridge details and hindering identification.
9. Clear the print by dusting or brushing the excess powder from between the
ridges while following the ridge contour of the fingerprint pattern.
10. Measure and record the location where the latent print was found.
 RECORDING LATENT PRINTS WITH THE USE OF PHOTOGRAPHY

As a general rule, all latent prints should be photographed before

lifting.
a. if there appears to be a lifting problem and the surface is flat, then
photograph the print before lifting it by using a Polaroid Camera (CU 5
- 1 to 1) and placing an identification tag into the photograph.
b. if using the strobe light to photograph a latent print on a reflective
surface, care must be exercised when positioning the camera to
prevent the reflection of the strobe light circle from blocking out the
print
 LIFTING LATENT PRINTS FROM A SURFACE

Unwind the roll of transparent lifting tape with a slow, steady, pulling motion
to a size of sufficient distance on either side of the Latent Print. Prevent
unnecessary contact with the Latent Print.
1. Place the end of the tape on the surface a safe distance from the edge of the
latent print.
2. Use the bulbous part of a finger to press the tape firmly and evenly over the
print. Avoid or eliminate any air bubbles between the tape and the print by
pressing them out.
3. Lift the tape by pulling it up and away from the surface upon which the print is
located, until the print is clear of the surface. Place a clear, if white powder is used,
or contrasting lifter background if other than white powder, is used, on a hard flat
surface underneath the lifted print.
4. Carefully press the tape containing the print onto the background in one even
motion.
5. Cut the tape from the roll and fold the excess tape under the edges of the lift
card. This will indicate the proper direction of the lifted print. Be sure to fold the
unused end over against the roll of tape to serve as a tab.
6. Record the identity of the lift marking it according to the item and location
where the print was lifted from, address, date of lifting, Case number, precinct, the
lifting investigator's name, shield number, command and diagram of item marking
'X' where latent print was lifted from. Initial lift card.
 It is sometimes possible to re-lift the same print a second or third time if the first
lift was obscure. In order to attempt to re-lift a print, re-dust the area where the
original lift was taken from and repeat the aforementioned lifting procedure.
In order to preserve a latent print on its original surface, apply the transparent
fingerprint tape over the latent print and do not attempt to lift the print. Rather,
allow the tape to remain on the surface over the print.
When finished lifting, clean the area and discard the paper containing the unused
powder. Do not attempt to pour the unused powder back into the original container
because this will eventually cause the powder to become lumpy and unusable.
 LATENT PRINT DEVELOPMENT - ON HUMAN SKIN

1. THE IODINE SILVER TRANSFER METHOD

The equipment needed for the Transfer Method is:
a. an iodine fuming pipe.
b. a 2" or 4" square silver sheet .005 inches to .010 inches thick.
c. a strong light source such as a 100 watt bulb.
THE BASIC STEPS IN THE TRANSFER METHOD
a. fume the skin tissue with iodine vapor from the iodine fuming pipe.
b. press the silver plate directly onto the skin, being sure to cover the area
where there may be a latent print (discolored area from fuming).
c. remove the silver plate and expose it to a strong light.
d. photograph the plate immediately.
NOTE: These prints are reversed (mirror image) on the plate and must be
corrected by photography to insure proper comparison and identification.
e. protect the print on the plate with fingerprint tape and place the plate into
a light proof envelope to insure that the print will not fade.
2. The Iodine - Polaroid Film Transfer Method
A technique found to be somewhat more economical and practical for
developing latent prints on human skin. The development process in this procedure
is the same as the Iodine-Silver Plate Method except that an unexposed #107 or
#667 Polaroid (black & white) film sheet is used instead of the Silver Plate.
Additionally, after the Polaroid film has been pressed onto the skin, the film sheet
is dusted with black powder so that the print can be developed. It should be
noted, the prints will not fade. These prints are reversed and must be corrected
by photography for latent identification.
3. The "Magna-Brush Method" is a technique which has been used successfully
under ideal conditions. This method employs the procedure described for
"ferromagnetic powders", in conjunction with "The Iodine - Polaroid Film Transfer
Method" instead of using conventional black powder. It should be noted, these
prints are reversed and must be corrected by photography for latent identification.
Fingerprint tape can be used to cover and preserve the latent print on the Polaroid
film, these prints will not fade.
 THE FOLLOWING FACTORS AFFECT LATENT PRINT DEVELOPMENT ON
HUMAN SKIN

a. The body area must be smooth and free from hair.

b. The length of time which lapses between the time the victim is touched
and the time of the latent print examination is an important consideration.
The longer the time lapse, the less chance there will be to develop a latent
print.
Identifiable latent prints on the skin of a live person have been developed
under laboratory conditions up to one hour after the skin was touched.
Whereas, prints have been developed up to 42 hours after the skin of a
deceased unembalmed person were touched.
c. Conditions of the skin either before and/ or after death. For example, moisture
(perspiration), dirt, etc., on the skin can insulate the skin and prevent a latent from
being deposited.
d. Amount of finger /palm pressure applied to the skin. Usually too much pressure is
applied by a perpetrator upon a victim when physical contact is made. This excess in
pressure will prevent an identifiable latent print from being deposited.
e. The location where the body is found. For example, if the body is found outdoors,
weather conditions could interfere with latent print development. Whereas, if the
body is located indoors; temperature and humidity could be a hindering factor.
 METHODS AND EQUIPMENT USED IN CHEMICAL DEVELOPMENT
OF LATENT PRINTS

1.IODINE FUMING
Iodine fuming is used to reveal prints on porous and semiporous surfaces such as paper, cardboard, and
unfinished wood.
The object to be treated is placed in an enclosed chamber that contains a few crystals of iodine.
Gently heating the crystals causes them to sublime (go from solid phase to gas phase without passing
through the liquid phase).
The violet iodine vapor adheres selectively to fingerprint residues, turning them orange. These orange
stains are fugitive, so they must be photographed immediately.
After a period ranging from a few hours to a few days, the iodine stains disappear, leaving the specimen in
its original state.
The developed prints can be made semi-permanent by treating them with a starch solution, which turns
the orange stains blue-black. These stains persist for weeks to months, depending on storage conditions.
IODINE FUMING CABINET
a. suspends the article containing the suspected latent print in the
cabinet.
b. heats a small amount of iodine crystals in the dish which is provided
and allow the vapors to permeate the object; if a latent print is present,
it will turn a yellowish-brown color.
c. removes the article from the cabinet and photograph any prints that
may have been developed before they fade. Faded prints can be
restored by repeating the process.
IODINE FUMER OR PIPE
The Iodine Pipe is much more portable than the cabinet and can be
used to locate a latent print which subsequently can be photographed
or processed by a more permanent method. The glass body of the pipe
contains iodine crystals and calcium chloride crystals (a drying agent);
these crystals are separated and held in place by glass wool.
2. Iodine Spray Reagent (ISR)
Iodine spray reagent (ISR) is a liquid analog to iodine fuming.
ISR is used to reveal prints on porous and semiporous surfaces such as paper,
cardboard, and unfinished wood, but ISR can be used on specimens for which
fuming is impractical.
ISR is made up as two stock solutions that are combined to make the working
solution.
a. Solution A (iodine) is a 0.1% w/v solution of iodine crystals in cyclohexane.
b. Solution B (fixer) is a 12.5% w/v solution of alpha-naphthoflavone in
methylene chloride.
 The working solution is made up by combining A:B in a 100:2 ratio,
mixing thoroughly, and filtering the working solution through a facial
tissue or filter paper.
The working solution is sprayed onto the questioned surface, using
the finest mist possible. Latent prints develop immediately and should
be photographed as soon as possible.
IODINE CRYSTALS AND PLASTIC BAG METHOD
a. a small amount of Iodine Crystals is poured into a small plastic bag (a bag of
approximately 8" x 12" in size is usually sufficient).
b. the object to be processed is then placed into the bag.
c. the bag is sealed to ensure airtightness.
d. shake the bag for a few minutes.
e. if latent prints appear they must be photographed immediately or processed by
a more permanent means and preserved.
3. NINHYDRIN
Ninhydrin was introduced in 1954 as the first of the modern fingerprint
development methods. In 1910, the English organic chemist Siegfried Ruhemann
synthesized ninhydrin (triketohydrindene hydrate), and reported that it reacts with
amino acids to form a violet dye that was subsequently named Ruhemann’s Purple
(RP).
The questioned surface is simply sprayed with or dipped in a dilute solution of
ninhydrin. After a period ranging from a few minutes to several hours, the prints
self-develop as purple stains.
Two variants of ninhydrin solution are used, depending on the surface to be
treated
a. The standard formulation is a 0.5% w/v solution of ninhydrin in a 3:4:93
mixture of methanol: isopropanol: petroleum ether.
b. The alternate formulation is a 0.6% w/v solution of ninhydrin in acetone.
This chemical is best used under laboratory conditions with proper
ventilation because the inhalation of fumes could prove injurious to the user. The
chemical will leave a stubborn purplish stain on all contacted surfaces including
human skin.
a. The article to be processed is saturated with Ninhydrin by either spraying it with
an aerosol. It can or by immersing it in a liquid solution of Ninhydrin.
b. The processed article should then be allowed to dry at room temperature, to
accelerate the reaction time apply moist heat (steam iron, etc.).
c. The latent print/s will appear purple in color and develop fully after several days
if allowed to dry at room temperature.
d. Latent prints developed with the use of Ninhydrin will fade after several weeks.
To ensure permanency, a Ninhydrin fixative in liquid or spray form must be applied
to the surface of the article containing the latent print/so
e. Photographs of the latent print/s will also provide a permanent record.
4. SILVER NITRATE
Silver nitrate is also used to reveal prints on paper and similar surfaces. The
surface is treated with a dilute solution of silver nitrate by spraying or immersion.
The soluble silver nitrate reacts with the sodium chloride (salt) present in sweat to
produce insoluble silver chloride. The surface may or may not be rinsed with water
after treatment to remove excess silver nitrate.
a. a 30/0 solution of Silver Nitrate is prepared.
b. the article is immersed in the solution until it is completely saturated (Silver Nitrate is also available
in spray form).
c. the article is then suspended in a dark room to dry.
d. once dry it is exposed to a strong light source (sunlight is an excellent source of light to be utilized).
e. the latent print/s that are present will appear light brown in color and will gradually become a
darker brown, gray or black.
f. the latent print should be photographed when it appears to be fully developed.
g. the print is preserved on the original surface by sealing it in a dark envelope or container.
Continued light exposure will darken the print beyond identification .
5. HEATED CAMPHOR METHOD
This method is ideal for developing latent prints on certain metals such as
galvanized steel.
a. a small amount of Camphor is placed into a large metal spoon or metal dish.
b. the Camphor is ignited with a match or cigarette lighter.
c. fumes produced from the Camphor are directed onto the metal.
d. the excess soot should be brushed away using the pony hair brush and the "clearing
a print" process.
e. the prints that appear are photographed and then preserved on the original surface
with fingerprint tape or they can be lifted
6. CYANOACRYLATE LATENT PRINT DEVELOPMENT (SUPER GLUE)
The cyanoacrylate glue method develops latent prints from the fumes that
are produced when the glue is exposed to the atmosphere. This method can be
used in conjunction with or independent of conventional methods. Some surfaces
upon which latent prints are developed by the glue method are plastics (plastic
bags), glass, glossy paper, glassine envelopes, leather and metal.
PROCESS:
a. place three or four drops of the glue in a small dish.
b. place the dish in an enclosed airtight container (glass cabinet),
c. suspend or stand the item so that all suspected surfaces are exposed to the fumes.
d. allow 1 to 24 hours development time. A chemical (.5% solution of sodium
hydroxide), a bed of baking soda in a dish and/or a heating process can be used to
expedite the development process.
e. photograph any visible latent prints which usually appear gray or white.
f. dust the item with powder in as much as dusting may either enhance the latent print or
develop prints that were not previously visible to the naked eye.
PROCESSING INTERIOR OF AUTOMOBILES WITH SUPER GLUE:
a. vehicle must be in garage at room temperature.
b. close all windows to seal the inside of vehicle.
c. place 5 or 6 drops of glue into each of approximately 20 small plastic dishes.
d. place the dishes strategically throughout the vehicle.
e. close all doors to seal in the fumes.
f. allow 1 to 24 hours development time (according to the development processes
used).
g. photograph visible prints and dust the interior for additional prints.
 CAUTION, when using cyanoacrylate glue. It is flammable. Do not smoke or
expose to open flame. The fumes may be toxic, be sure to ventilate area 21 after
the development process is completed and prior to searching for latent prints.
7. GENTIAN VIOLET LATENT PRINT DEVELOPMENT (CRYSTAL VIOLET)
Latent print development occurs when fingerprint residue is stained by a
solution of 1/10 gram of crystal violet in 100 ml. of distilled water. This method
can be used on the adhesive side of all types of tape with a viscid, rubber like
adhesive (not water soluble adhesive).
PROCESSING WITH GENTIAN VIOLET
a. place the tape into the prepared solution or the solution may be painted on with

a brush.
b. allow 1 to 2 minutes before placing the tape under running cold tap water to
rinse off excess solution.
c. the latent prints will appear in a violet or blue color and should be
photographed and then protected with clear plastic.
d. black tape is processed in the same manner and the latent prints can be
transferred to resin coated photo paper, these prints are in a reverse position
and must be photographically reversed to their original position.
8. DFO
DFO, also known by its chemical name of 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one, operates by
the same mechanism as ninhydrin, reacting with amino acids in fingerprint residues
to form visible stains.
DFO stains are much fainter than those produced by ninhydrin, but DFO stains
fluoresce directly, without after-treatment. DFO was popularized by UK police
forces, and is still more widely used in British Commonwealth countries than
elsewhere.
 If DFO is used, it must be used before ninhydrin, PD, or silver nitrate is
applied. DFO reagent is a 0.05% solution of DFO crystals in a solution made up of
methanol: ethyl acetate: acetic acid: petroleum ether in a 20:20:4:164 ratio.
DFO is applied by spraying or immersion, followed by drying, retreating the
surface, drying again, heating the treated surface to 50 °C to 100 °C for 10 to
20 minutes, and finally by viewing under an alternate light source at 495 nm to
550 nm.
Raised prints are photographed through an orange filter. Because DFO
reagent is expensive and the required procedure is complex and time-consuming,
DFO treatment is used less often than it might otherwise be.
9. Sudan Black
Sudan black is a dye that reacts with the sebaceous (of, or relating to fatty material)
perspiration component of fingerprints to form a blue-black stain. Sudan black is used
primarily for wet surfaces, including those contaminated with beverages, oil, grease, or
foods, and is also useful for post-processing of cyanoacrylate-fumed prints, particularly
those on the interior of latex or rubber gloves.
The Sudan black reagent is simply a 1% w/v solution of Sudan black in 60% to 70%
ethanol, although it is usually made up by dissolving the solid dye in 95% ethanol and
then adding distilled water to reduce the ethanol concentration to 60% to 70%. In use,
the questioned surface is immersed in the Sudan black solution for about two minutes
and then rinsed gently with water. Raised prints are visible as blue-black stains.
10. Blood Reagents
Blood reagents are used to develop latent prints and enhance visible prints
that include blood in the fingerprint residues. These agents are also commonly
used to reveal latent bloodstained footprints and hand marks.
 A. Amido black, the oldest of these reagents, is a dye that stains proteins in blood
residues blue-black. Several variants of amido black reagent are used. The most
common is a 0.2% w/v solution of amido black in a 9:1 mixture of methanol: acetic
acid.
The questioned surface is sprayed with or immersed in this solution and
allowed to soak for 30 seconds to one minute, after which it is rinsed with a 9:1
methanol: acetic acid solution.
The dye/rinse procedure can be repeated to increase contrast. After a final
rinse with water, the specimen is dried and photographed.
 B. DAB, also known by its chemical name of 3,3′-diaminobenzidine
tetrahydrochloride, is the newest of the blood reagents. The DAB method is
relatively complicated and expensive, but it sometimes provides usable results
where no other method works.
The DAB process requires four reagents.
1. Solution A, the fixer, is a 2% w/v solution of 5-sulfosalicylic acid in distilled water.
2. Solution B, the buffer, is a 1:8 mixture of 1 M pH 7.4 phosphate buffer solution in
distilled water.
3. Solution C is a 1% w/v solution of DAB in distilled water.
4. Developer is made up by combining 180 parts by volume of Solution B with 20
parts Solution C and one part 30% hydrogen peroxide.
11. Small particle reagent (SPR) is a liquid suspension of solid particles of dark gray
molybdenum disulfide, applied to the questioned surface by spraying or dipping.
SPR works in the same way as fingerprint powders-by physical adhesion of
particles to fatty fingerprint residues-but unlike dry fingerprint powders, SPR can
be used for processing wet surfaces, including surfaces soaked in liquid accelerants
and other organic solvents.
SPR is also used on glossy nonporous surfaces such as glass and plastic, coated
glossy papers, and surfaces covered with glossy paint. Prints raised by SPR are
extremely fragile, and should be photographed before any attempt is made to lift
them.
12. Super Glue Fuming
Super Glue fuming, also called cyanoacrylate fuming from the primary component of Super
Glue, was discovered by accident in 1976 when Masao Soba noticed white fingerprints on the
surface of a super glue container. Frank Kendall improved the process and adapted it to latent
fingerprint development, reporting his findings in a 1980 paper. Since that time, Super Glue
fuming has become one of the most frequently-used latent print development processes.
Super Glue fuming is used to develop latent prints on nonporous glossy surfaces such as
glass, plastic, and polished metal. Like dusting, cyanoacrylate fuming is a physical process.
Cyanoacrylate vapor is selectively attracted to fingerprint residues, where it builds up as a
crystalline white deposit. The developed latent prints may be photographed as is, or may be
dusted or treated with various dyes that enhance the visibility and contrast of the prints.
 The standard method for Super Glue fuming is to place the object to be fumed
in an enclosed chamber (aquariums are often used) that contains a small electric
heater. An aluminum weighing boat is placed on the heater, and the temperature
set to high.
Super Glue fumed prints can be photographed directly, or treated with dyes to
increase the visibility and contrast of the prints and make them easier to see
against a patterned background surface.
13. Physical Developer (PD)
Physical developer (PD) is useful for developing latent fingerprints on most
porous surfaces and some nonporous surfaces. It is particularly useful for
revealing latent prints on paper currency, paper bags, and porous surfaces that
have been wet. PD is a destructive process, and so is always used last if at all.
PD is an alternative to the silver nitrate method. You can use one or the
other, but not both. Whichever you use must be the last method you apply. PD is
normally used after DFO and/or ninhydrin, and often reveals latent prints that
neither of these methods revealed.
14. Victoria Pure Blue Method – This is used to detect latent prints on leaves, scotch
tape, and masking tape.
Preparation: 1 gram of Victoria pure blue mix with 1 liter of ordinary water to
make
0.1% of Victoria pure blue solution.
Procedure: Dip or soak the suspected object in a tray containing the solution for
30
seconds to one minute and observe how the prints appears, then
wash it
with water. Photograph the developed print. The developed print can
remain for several months and years depending on its preservation.
 Other Methods of Friction Ridge Preservation

Latent print preservation is also achieved through the use of latent print lifts and
casting material.
Fingerprint lifters are used after the application of fingerprint powders. The powder
clings to latent print deposits or contaminants already on a substance. Fingerprint
lifters come in a variety of types that vary in color, size, flexibility, and tackiness
(stickiness). In general, there are four types of commercially produced fingerprint
lifts:
(1) transparent tape lifters,
(2) hinge lifters,
(3) rubber-gelatin lifters, and
(4) lifting sheets. The tape may be clear or frosted and is dispensed from a roll.
Casting Material
Casting material is advantageous when dealing with patent impressions,
powdered latent impressions on textured surfaces, or when processing the
friction ridges of deceased individuals. Casting materials are available in several
colors and have been manufactured to dry quickly and release easily. In addition to
use in photographic recording, casting material can be powdered or inked and then
lifted or impressed on lifting sheets. The resulting image will be a reverse position
image of the friction ridges.
PACKAGING ARTICLES THAT HAVE LATENT PRINTS ON THEM
When packaging articles that are to be processed elsewhere:
a. They should be handled by their edges with tongs or tweezers; The knuckles of
the fingers can be used as tongs in an emergency.
b. Be sure not to place one object against another.
c. Do not use cloth or paper for securing or wrapping an object.
d. It should be suspended or secured so that it will not rub against another surface.
e. Paper or cardboard that contain latent prints which comes in contact with
another surface usually will not harm a latent print and could be stacked one on
top of another without destroying a latent print.
ELIMINATION FINGERPRINTS
The crime scene investigator should, whenever possible, take elimination prints of the
complainant or other persons who may have touched or handled the processed areas and submit
them to the Latent Print Unit together with the recovered latent prints.
Additionally, the investigator should list and submit to the Latent Print Unit names and
addresses of other people who have legal access to the crime scene for which no elimination
fingerprints were submitted and the rank, name, shield number, tax registry number and social
security number of each member of the service who entered the crime scene area.
Whenever palm prints are recovered from a crime scene, the crime scene investigator must be
sure that the palm prints of the complainants, homicide victims and police personnel involved
are taken.
 IDENTIFICATION BASED ON FINGERPRINTS

Fingerprint is said to be an infallible means of personal identification

because of the principle of individuality, meaning no two prints are the
same. It was proven that even identical twins do not have the same
fingerprint patterns. Therefore, when a latent print (questioned) and
on actual print (standard) are compared and the two are the same,
there is no doubt that such print belongs to one and the same person.
 To establish the source of a fingerprint, “point” or “ ridges detail” must
be present in both the questioned and standard. Points and ridges details are
identical ridge characteristics that are found in the fingerprint from known
and questioned sources. These also include all the different ridge that occurs
outside the pattern area on the finger. These points when compared should
be on the same shape and type; the same face and the same direction
termed as qualitative concordance. It is not necessary that the questioned
fingerprint should be complete pattern since they are chance impression,
therefore it is only fragmentary. What is important is that both (questioned
and standard) reveal the same ridge characteristics known as quantitative
factor. There is no required matching ridge characteristics. Universally, there
is no standard requirement needed to prove the identity.
 The Philippines uses ten (10) to twelve (12) matching points, other
countries uses 10 to 15, and still other uses 18. There are instances
whereby less than ten matching points can be sufficient to prove
identity if these consist of very unusual types of combination like the
presence of an island, enclosure, dot, ridge bridge or a double
bifurcation. Finally, the number of ridges that intervene between two
given characteristics in the latent print must be the same as the
number of ridges intervening between the same two characteristics of
the inked print. This relationship of ridge characteristics is the final
variable factor in the comparison of known and unknown prints.
How many points?
There is no standard, nor do experts agree on the number of
munutiae required for two fingerprints to be considered the same.
Ninety years ago, Locard suggested 12 points and most jurisdictions
subsequently established rules requiring somewhere 12 and 16 points,
although some required as few as eight (8). However, in 1973, the
International Association for Identification (IAI) published a report that
concluded: “No valid basis exists at this time for requiring that a
predetermined minimum number of friction ridge characteristics must
be present in two impressions in order to establish positive
identification.” (Fisher, Tilstone, Woytovicz, 2009)
 Minutiae = All fingerprint types have many distinguishing
characteristics in their details, collectively termed as “minutiae.” These
fine details are the bases for individualization from a fingerprint lift, like
bifurcations, ridge ending, islands (short ridges, sometimes the island is
extremely small and is called a dot).
 An investigation of latent fingerprinting techniques

Matching of the latent fingerprint is done using unique features which are
categorized into three different levels, namely:

Level 1, features are the most basic features that can be derived from a latent
fingerprint sample like the arch, left loop, right loop, whorl, etc.. They are visible
to our naked eyes and helps in visual inspection and manual matching of
fingerprints.
 •Level 2 features comprising ridge endings, bifurcations, hook, etc.. They are
more sophisticated features than level 1 features. Sometimes due to poor quality of
evidence, these features may not be extracted efficiently due to smudging of ridges.
Hence, an appropriate reconstruction and enhancement is required to eliminate
spurious features.
•Level 3 features are the most defining features that can help us enhance our
performance enormously. They are permanent features that we can recover from a
sample like pores, line-shape, scars, etc.. The presence and spatial relationship of
the pores on the print ridges. However, it is difficult to extract such features because
of resolution constraints. Usually, a combination of the above features is used for
appropriate matching results.
The processing of latent fingerprint images follows a sequence of steps:
1. The first step is the image acquisition phase, wherein the latent fingerprint is uplifted
using various techniques.
2. This captured image is further used in the enhancement phase in which the quality of an
image is improved by noise removal, sharpening of an image, adjusting the brightness of
the image, etc.. Image enhancement makes it easier to identify key features in an image.
3. The next step is image restoration in which an image that is degraded due to blur, noise,
dirt, scratches, etc. is recovered to extract accurate features from the image.
4. Matching is the final step in which the features that are recovered from an image is
matched with the ground truth using various matching techniques and algorithms.
WHAT IS LATENT PRINT RIDGE ANALYSIS?
Print ridges refer to the raised patterns visible on one’s fingertips, palms, toes, and
heels. The actual ridges that form the pattern are called loops, arches, and whorls.
Ridge analysis is the process in which a print analyst, forensic biologist, or crime
scene investigator finds and captures a print to compare its unique pattern with
others. Ridge analysis operates on the premise that no two prints are the same, so if
a latent fingerprint matches a suspect’s fingerprint, then they were at the scene of
the crime, though experts cannot say when.
Applications
Placing potential suspects at the scene of the crime is one of the
best-known applications of print ridge analysis. Its additional uses
include:
 Connecting suspects and victims to the scene of a crime
 Identifying confused, unconscious, deceased, and other unknown
people
 Confirming one’s identity for security purposes; this called
“biometric security”
 Conducting criminal background checks
 The Latent Print Ridge Analysis Process: ACE-V

ACE V is the is a scientific method for the examination and documentation of

latent fingerprints. It is the most common method of fingerprint
examination worldwide.
ACE-V stands for Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification. It was first
introduced in the 1980s for the examination and documentation of latent
fingerprints by David R. Ashbaugh, a respected Canadian fingerprint expert.
The purpose of the ACE-V method is to give more structure and objectivity to print
comparison for sound practice.
Analysis: The forensic technician assesses the unknown print to determine if it can
be used for comparison. This step involves the preliminary assessment of several
factors like the surface material or the substance of the print itself
•Print analysts use computers, microscopes, or loupes to identify and count
the loops, whorls, and arches that make up its unique pattern and to discern
whether the quality or amount of the pattern is sufficient for further
examination. They can also identify scars or other features that could
distinguish one person from another.
• Comparison: The examiner analyses characteristic attributes of the fingerprints
(the physical features such as recurves, deltas, creases, and scars). S/he identifies
conformities between the found and the known latent prints. Known prints are
often collected from victims; others present at the scene or through a search of
one or more fingerprint databases such as the FBI’s Integrated Automated
Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) or the Office of Biometric Identity
Management’s IDENT. Experts note and compare print features carefully.
• Evaluation: Latent print ridge evaluation is when forensic and CSI experts
carefully study two seemingly identical prints and decide the likelihood of the
match. Ideally, he or she will identify or exclude a potential suspect, but many
results are deemed inconclusive. The examiner decides if the prints are from the
same source (identification or individualization), different sources (exclusion), or
are inconclusive.
The examiner answers a few questions:
– are there any conformities between the revealed print and the known ones?
– is there a sufficient number of minutiae to identify the unique correlation?
 There are only four possible conclusions for the examiner:
• The latent print is
1. identified or individualized
2. not identified or excluded
3. inconclusive
4. verified
 Verification: Once a forensic print analyst concludes his or her evaluation, the print is sent
to another independent professional for verification. It is not unusual for a print to undergo
several rounds of verification before it is presented as evidence in a criminal trial. This step
ensures the objective application of the method and confirms the results of the first
technician. The second examiner may also verify the suitability of determinations made in
the analysis phase.
 FINGERPRINT TAKING

Can you force a person to be fingerprinted?

Yes, as long as the person is under legal arrest, he can be forced to
be fingerprinted. A person under arrest who refuses to be fingerprinted
may be prosecuted by disobedience to the agent of person in authority,
defined and penalized by Art. 151 of the Revised Penal Code.
Authority: Opinion No. 240 series – 1939 by the Secretary of Justice
Jose Abad Santos.
Equipment in taking fingerprints
1. Fingerprint ink roller = 6” x 2” in diameter
2. Card holder
3. Inking plate or glass slab = 6” x 14”
4. Fingerprint ink
5. Hand and slab roller cleaner
6. Fingerprint card
7. Fingerprint table = 38” x 40” high
Types of Fingerprint Impressions (John Edgar Hoover-FBI Director, The
Science of Fingerprint)
1. Rolled impression = One made by rolling the thumbs and fingers
following the procedure stated below.
2. Plain/Flat impression = This requires that the fingers be taken or
printed simultaneously, then the thumbs without rolling. Plain
impressions are used as a check upon the sequence and accuracy of the
rolled impression.
Suggested Procedures in Taking Fingerprints
A. Inking the Plate
1. Squeeze one-half “fingerprint ink on the back strip.”
2. Roll the “one-half“ ink with the ink roller until the roller is covered with a
thin film of ink. The back strip is used for replenishing ink. DO NOT move the
roller back and forth; lift the roller off the slab after each stroke. Return the
roller to the starting point and roll again.
3. Now place the roller on the front strip and roll ink for 10 seconds across
the length of the slab. The strip should be 3 to 4 inches in width. This strip is
used for inking the fingers. Continue rolling (do not roll back and forth) until a
smooth, uniform coating is apparent.
B. Inking and Rolling the Fingers
Rolled Impression
1. Have the subject wash and thoroughly dry his hands prior to
inking. Some subjects may be required that individual fingers be dried
with a towel just before inking.
2. You will start by inking and rolling the fingers on the right hand,
then ink and roll the fingers on the left hand and finally, take plain
impressions of both hands. In this way, you start at the top of the card,
where space is allotted to the right hand, and work your way down the
card.
3. The rule for inking and rolling fingers is: Roll thumbs towards the
subject’s body and roll fingers away from the subject’s body. Thus, a
subject’s right thumb to be rolled Right to Left, while the fingers on the
right hand are to be rolled Left to Right. The left thumb is rolled from
Left to Right and the fingers on the left hand are rolled from Right to
Left.
4. The fingers should be inked and rolled on the first joint; that is the
area between the tip and the first crease line. Fingers should be inked
and rolled from “nail to nail edge,” with the finger held at right angles
to the slab and cardholder.
5. Let the subject stand directly in front of the inking slab. A right-handed
technician should then place himself so that the subject is to his right and
rear, a left-handed technician to his left and rear. Grip the subject’s right
hand with the writing hand, cupping your hand and fingers over the top of
the subject’s hand and fingers. Subject’s fingers not being inked or rolled
should be curled under the palm. Use the free hand to guide the digit to be
inked and rolled, gripping it at the nail with the thumb and index fingers.
The technician should use his writing hand to control the pressure and
the rotation of the subject’s digit: do not let the digit twist or wobble, or let
the subjects slide or draw his finger during the inking and rolling process.
6. Begin with the right thumb: Lightly place the right edge of the thumb
at the right edge of the slab. Slowly and with even pressure roll the
thumb towards the subject’s body until you have reached the left edge
of the nail. Lift the thumb and move to the card holder. Do the same
procedure for the four fingers but roll the fingers away from the
subject’s body.
7. The inking of the fingers and thumbs on the glass slab is the same
procedure when rolling/inking and printing them on the fingerprint
card.
Plain Impression/Flat Impression
Press the right thumb straight down on the slab without rolling motion and
then straight down over the appropriate space in the record card without any
rolling motion.
Next, holding the four fingers of the right hand so as to keep them touching,
press them straight down on the ink slab and then straight down over the record
card.
Skew the hand as necessary so that impressions of the pads of all four fingers
can be made simultaneously and all appear within the appropriate box.
Press the four fingers at one time. Repeat the same procedure for the left hand.
Important Points to Consider in Taking Legible Fingerprints
1. Cleanliness of the equipment.
2. The right kind and correct amount of ink.
3. The proper distribution of ink on the glass slab.
4. The distance of the subject from the ink plate and on the fingerprint
card.
5. The advice of the operator to the subject to relax his fingers and
thumbs and never aid in the operation.
6. The pressure extended must be slight and even and the rolling be
continuous movement including lifting.
7. The nails of the fingers should be at right angles to the glass slab or to the
card before starting the rolling and the fingers should always be rolled up to
the other side of the nail is reached.
8. The inking and printing must always reach below the first end joint of the
fingers.
9. While rolling the fingers, the subject’s hand should be held/controlled
properly to prevent twisting and slipping of the fingers.
10. Proper alignment.
CLASSIFICATION
 What is IAFIS?

IAFIS stands for Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System, now

NGI. IAFIS was in 1999, upgraded to the Next Generation Identification (NGI), is
the world's most extensive criminal history collection.
AFIS is the generic term, IAFIS is the name of the FBI AFIS.
AFIS is a biometric solution consisting of a computer database of fingerprint
records, which is able to search and compare them to identify known or unknown
fingerprints. Modern AFISes are able to search over a billion fingerprint records in
a single second. The current algorithms are almost 100 percent accurate.
When did AFIS begin?
Criminal identification systems initially emerged in the late 19thcentury. They were triggered by
the landmark development of the Henry System of fingerprint classification in which fingerprints are
sorted by physiological characteristics and anthropometrics, also known as the Bertillon system, in
which measurements are obtained from suspects and filed.
In the U.K., the Metropolitan Police started using biometrics for identification in 1901.
In the U.S., it was initiated by the New York police in 1902, with French police beginning the
same process in late 1902.
By the 1920s, the FBI had created its first Identification Department, establishing a central
repository of criminal identification data for U.S. law enforcement agencies.
All needed to be classified manually by an ever-growing team of staff.
When was AFIS created?
The very first AFIS was created in 1974 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It only
contained the so-called minutiae, or the most important points of a fingerprint because it would be
too expensive to store whole images. While it took police examiners a month or more to compare
fingerprints for a match in a paper database, computers were able to compare them to a database
of 100,000 in just 30 minutes. Today, the same search takes less time than a single blink of an eye.
The FBI ABIS is still running, the bureau calls it IAFIS (the “I” stands for Integrated). Sometimes
the abbreviations, IAFIS and AFIS, are used interchangeably because of the longevity of the FBI
IAFIS.
The very first Innovatrics AFIS was deployed in 2009. Along with fingerprints and palmprints,
it now also supports faces and irises. In this case, it is called Automated Biometric Identification
System (ABIS).
What is an AFIS database?
The database of the AFIS itself can contain images of fingerprints, sets of
fingerprints, palmprints, and/or footprints along with identifying data of the
individual. These can come from criminal investigations or from other sources such
as biometric civil registers.
The database also contains templates generated from source images to
enable quick searching through the AFIS for match candidates. With the correct
equipment, the AFIS database can also be accessed by field computers, helping
with the identification of victims of natural disasters or when disbursing state aid.
A comprehensive investigative toolkit
The typical modern AFIS can perform tasks that include:
 Searching a known tenprint against a tenprint database
 Searching a latent print against a tenprint database
 Searching a latent against a latent database
 Seeking a new tenprint against 'unsolved' latents

TENPRINT
A generic reference to examinations performed on intentionally recorded friction ridge
impressions, usually ten fingers.
A controlled recording of available fingers of an individual using black ink, electronic
imaging, photography, or other medium on a contrasting background.
How does AFIS operate?
Over the years, many such algorithms ( a procedure used for solving a problem or performing a
computation) have been developed and enhanced continuously based on real-world
experience. Commonly used examples include:
 Image Enhancement
As the name suggests, image enhancement algorithms address the numerous issues affecting the
basic quality of latent or tenprint images.
 Feature Extraction
Feature extraction algorithms are designed to identify the minutiae points (usually ridge endings
and ridge bifurcations) that distinguish one print from another. These might also be supported by
algorithms locating non-minutiae points, such as pores or textures. Indeed, the combination of both
minutiae and non-minutiae algorithms can prove incredibly powerful in searching for a match.
 Indexing
Automatic indexing of fingerprints limits the sheer volume of data that an AFIS
needs to process when searching for a match, significantly reducing the time
taken to complete the task.
 Matching
The design and choice of matching algorithms employed by the AFIS – and its
operators - significantly impact the number of potential matches, false positives,
and false negatives generated. An AFIS also uses algorithms to provide a
'matching score.' This reflects the confidence that a set of prints can be regarded
as matching another found in the database.
How big is IAFIS?
Maintained by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Service, it contains the
fingerprints of more than 162 million criminal and civil individuals at the end of
December 2021, according to the FBI monthly fact sheet. The IAFIS database
does include military-related fingerprints.
How does AFIS help law enforcement?
The ability of AFIS to search hundreds of millions of records in seconds greatly
reduces time spent by the police when searching for identities of suspects,
criminals, victims or unknown people. AFIS is also able to assess the quality of the
match, decreasing possible errors and mistakes.
When analyzing a crime scene, it is of paramount importance to be able to
separate fingerprints of the usual occupants and those of possible suspects. For
this, AFIS is indispensable due to its quick response and matching time. It can
group fingerprints from the same individuals, reducing search times and the
complexity of the necessary searches. In simple cases, it can take only a few
hours from finding a fingerprint to identifying and apprehending a suspect.
How does AFIS help criminal investigations?
AFIS is able to search the database for a complete or partial fingerprint and
returns matching candidates. Matches usually contain a score expressing the
likelihood of being a correct match in the AFIS database. The accuracy of the search
can be increased when more fingerprints from the same person are available.
Accuracy also depends on the quality and the completeness of the latent
fingerprint. The standardization of templates also means that AFISes can share
electronic fingerprints with other systems, e.g., in international investigations.
 Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems do not only help find
criminals, they can also identify victims by fingerprints. In fact,
Innovatrics AFIS in Indonesia was used to quickly identify hundreds of
victims of the tsunami in 2018. Such a search had taken months
beforehand when done manually.
How does AFIS help border control?
In border control, AFIS can expedite crossing borders while keeping security
high. Innovatrics AFIS has been deployed in the Middle East, keeping the busy
borders secure and accessed by millions of pilgrims and migrant workers every
year. Unlike manual checks, biometric border control is both faster and more
accurate. Fingerprint and facial recognition both outperform the human eye
when it comes to accuracy. Combined with high-performance AFIS, border checks
are quicker and more secure when coupled with biometrics.
Many passports already have biometrics incorporated on a chip. They are in
fact required if one wants to travel to the USA without a visa. The system then
compares actual fingerprints and/or face with those stored on the chip.
What is IDENT?
IDENT, the Automated Biometric Identification System, is at the heart of the
central Department of Homeland Security (DHS) system to store, match, and
process biometric and associated biographic information.
IDENT was the original fingerprint border control system established in the mid-
1990s with Cogent as the fingerprinting provider to identify persons attempting to
illegally cross into the United States via the north and southwest borders.
• The US-VISIT program increases the IDENT capability to include fingerprint
biometrics processing of international travelers arriving at international airports
within the United States.
• In 2013, the DHS NPPD Office of Biometric Identification Management (OBIM)
became the managing group for all DHS biometrics activities. Some of the
stakeholders and users of the DHS OBIM repository include:
a. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),
b. Customs Border Patrol (CBP),
c. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS)
d. Department of State.
Five Key Services
1: Ten-Print-Based Fingerprint Identification Services
A ten-print fingerprint submission contains 10 rolled fingerprint
impressions and corresponding flat fingerprint impressions.
Criminal Ten-Print Fingerprint Submission: Fingerprints are acquired as a
result of an arrest at the city, county, state, or federal level. The fingerprints
are processed locally and then electronically forwarded to a state or federal
agency system for processing. The fingerprints are then sent through the
CJIS Wide Area Network to IAFIS for processing. Mailed ten-print fingerprint
cards are converted to an electronic format in the IAFIS environment.
Civil Ten-Print Fingerprint Submission: Fingerprints are acquired for
background checks for employment, licensing, or other non-criminal
justice purposes where authorized by federal and state law and in
compliance with appropriate regulations. Like criminal fingerprints, civil
fingerprints are processed by local, state, or federal agencies prior to
being submitted to IAFIS for processing.
2. Latent Fingerprint Services
IAFIS supports both electronic and hard copy submissions of latent
fingerprints. It provides the FBI Laboratory with enhanced search
capabilities using databases specially designed for matching latent
fingerprints. Latent fingerprint specialists return decisions to the
requestor and add any unidentified latent fingerprints and their
features to the unsolved latent fingerprint file
3. Subject Search and Criminal History Services
The Interstate Identification Index (III) segment of IAFIS is the national system
designed to provide automated criminal history record information. The
Interstate Identification Index stores the criminal history record information of
federal offenders and those offenders established by participating and non-
participating III states. Each record is created through the submission of fingerprint
images to IAFIS.
The participating states establish and update records within the Interstate
Identification Index through the submission of first and subsequent fingerprint
images of arrested subjects. Once these records are established, the participating
states provide requested criminal history records when an electronic inquiry for a
state-maintained record is processed by the system.
 States in the final stage of the Interstate Identification Index as
National Fingerprint File (NFF) participants submit only the first arrest
fingerprint images of a subject to establish a pointer record within the
index segment. Any subsequent activity related to this NFF pointer
record will be the sole responsibility of the NFF participating state.
If a direct terminal inquiry or an IAFIS fingerprint inquiry identifies a
person with a criminal history in one or more NFF participating states, a
criminal history request is forwarded to the participating NFF state’s
criminal history system for the appropriate response.
4. Document and Imaging Services
IAFIS processes documents associated with criminal history records
received in electronic, hard copy, or machine-readable data formats.
These documents include arrest dispositions, expungements, and other
miscellaneous updates.
Fingerprint Image Services: IAFIS supplies electronic images of
fingerprints to authorized agencies upon request.
Photo Services: IAFIS has the capability to accept, store, and distribute
photos.
5. Remote Ten-Print and Latent Fingerprint Search Services
IAFIS supports remote ten-print and latent fingerprint searches by
law enforcement agencies. The results of remote ten-print and latent
searches are returned electronically and include a list of potential
matching candidates and corresponding fingerprints for comparison
and identification by the requesting agency.
Biometric Advantages
• No more forgotten or stolen passwords
• Positive and accurate Identification
• Highest level of security
• Offers mobility
• Impossible to forge
• Serves as a Key that cannot be transferred.
• Safe and user friendly
Biometric authentication requires to compare a registered or enrolled
biometric sample (biometric template or identifier) against a newly
captured biometric sample (for example, the one captured during a
login). This is a three-step process (Capture, Process, Enroll) followed by
a Verification or Identification process.
During Capture process, raw biometric is captured by a sensing device
such as a fingerprint scanner or video camera.
The second phase of processing is to extract the distinguishing
characteristics from the raw biometric sample and convert into a
processed biometric identifier record (sometimes called biometric
sample or biometric template).
Next phase does the process of enrollment. Here the processed sample
(a mathematical representation of the biometric - not the original
biometric sample) is stored / registered in a storage medium for future
comparison during an authentication. In many commercial applications,
there is a need to store the processed biometric sample only. The original
biometric sample cannot be reconstructed from this identifier.
HISTORY OF DEOXYRIBONULEIC ACID (DNA)
The history of DNA started in a school in Great Britain called Leicester University. A geneticist,
Alec Jeffreys was studying the use of restriction enzymes and the use of DNA probes in the study
of mammalian myoglobin gene cluster. He began his research in 1975, and soon recognized the
potential for the use of repetitive regions of the genome to individualize biological fluids
published in 1985.
The first high profile forensic case was documented in “The Blodding,” a book by Joseph
Wambaugh. The case involved the rapes and murders of two high school girls in the small village
of Narborough in Britain. A suspect was arrested. He was a worker at the local metal institution
who confessed only to the second murder. The police, however, were convinced that both
murders were linked to the same individual and that one man committed both crimes.
DNA fingerprinting is a way of identifying a specific individual, rather than simply identifying
a species or some particular trait. It is also known as genetic fingerprinting or DNA profiling.
WHERE IS DNA CONTAINED IN THE HUMAN BODY?
DNA is contained in blood, semen, skin cells, tissue, organs, muscle,
brain cells, bone, teeth, hair, saliva, mucus, perspiration, fingernails,
urine, feces, etc.
In forensics, DNA fingerprinting is very attractive because it doesn't
require actual fingerprints, which may or may not be left behind, and
may or may not be obscured. Because all of the DNA sections are
contained in every cell, any piece of a person's body, from a strand of
hair to a skin follicle to a drop of blood, may be used to identify them
using DNA fingerprinting.
 This is useful in the case of identifying a criminal, because even a
drop of blood or skin left at the crime scene may be enough to establish
innocence or guilt, and it is virtually impossible to remove all physical
trace of one's presence. DNA fingerprinting is useful in the case of
identifying victims because even in cases where the body may be
disfigured past identification, and teeth or other identifying features
may be destroyed, all it takes is a single cell for positive identification
 DNA fingerprinting is by no means perfect, however, it cannot
establish beyond the shadow of a doubt that a specific cell comes from
a specific person; it can only establish a probability. In many cases this
probability is very high -- one in ten billion, for example -- but in some
cases it may be much lower. The probability also becomes obscured
when dealing with direct descendants, who may share a large portion
of the examined areas of DNA with a parent.
DNA Fingerprinting
It is called a fingerprint because it is very unlikely that any two (2)
people would have exactly the same DNA information, in the same
way that it is very unlikely that any 2 people would have exactly the
same physical fingerprint. The test is used to determine whether a
family relationship exists between two people, to identify organisms
causing a disease, and to solve crimes. Only a small sample of cells is
needed for DNA fingerprinting.
DNA fingerprinting is done to :
1. Determine who a person’s parents or siblings are. This test also may be
used to identify the parents of babies who were switched at birth.
2. Solve crimes (forensic science). Blood, semen, skin, or other tissue left at
the scene of the crime can be analyzed to help prove whether the suspect
was or was not present at the crime scene.
•Many cases have been solved by DNA analysis of saliva on cigarette
butts, postage stamps, rims of cups and glasses.
•DNA analysis of a single hair found deep in the victim's throat provided
a critical piece of evidence to solve the crime and apprehend the criminal.
INTERPRETATION OF DNA TYPING RESULTS
1. Contamination. If care not used in DNA extractions and typing, then
biological material from an extraneous source, such as the evidence
technician, scientist, or laboratory technician, can be introduced
accidentally. This can be a serious problem, especially with PCR-based
methods because the DNA from contamination may also be amplified
and can overwhelm the DNA from the sample.
2. DNA from more than one source. This can occur in evidence from
sexual assaults and crimes of violence where biological material can be
easily mixed. It is sometimes but not always possible to resolve the
mixture and determine the number and identity of the contributors.
For example, if sperm are present in a sample, tests that look only at
the male fraction of DNA such as Y-STR analysis may be useful to
distinguish the male and female DNA. If one contributor dominates the
other in quantity, it may not be possible to get a clear DNA type of the
minor contributors.
3. Degradation. DNA is remarkably stable substance, but it can degrade
from a number of causes including extreme heat, light, time, humidity,
biological causes such as fungi and bacteria, and the presence of
certain chemicals. When DNA degrades, long strands may become
fragmented
4. Extraneous materials. There are samples which contain substances
other human DNA at the scene may be present. For example, some
chemicals may deactivate the enzymes that are need for analysis. These
include some clothing dyes, blood components, and soil. Special clean
up procedures may be needed to remove or counter the effects of
these materials. There are also micro organisms such as certain
bacteria that can produce substances that can destroy DNA.
 CASES SOLVED BY FINGERPRINTS
The First Criminal Trial That Used Fingerprints as Evidence
Thomas Jennings, accused of murdering Clarence D. Hiller, Chicago, Illinois, 1910.
Thomas Jennings – an African-American man who had been paroled six weeks earlier - was stopped
a half-mile away wearing a torn and bloodied coat and carrying a revolver. But it was what he left
behind that would be the focal point of his trial—a fingerprint from a freshly painted railing that he
used to hoist himself through a window at the Hiller house. Police photographed and cut off the
railing itself, claiming it would prove the identity of the burglar. In the eyes of the court, they were
right; Hiller’s murder would lead to the first conviction using fingerprint evidence in a criminal trial
in the United States.
Fingerprinting had thereby been “proclaimed by the Supreme Court of Illinois to be sufficient
basis for a verdict of death by hanging,” the Chicago Tribune reported, and it was the beginning of a
shift toward the largely unquestioned use of fingerprint evidence in courtrooms across the United
States.
 Fingerprint evidence is used to solve a British murder case

• The neighbors of Thomas and Ann Farrow, shopkeepers in South London, discover their badly bludgeoned
bodies in their home. Thomas was already dead, but Ann was still breathing. She died four days later without
ever having regained consciousness. The brutal crime was solved using the newly developed fingerprinting
technique. Only three years earlier, the first English court had admitted fingerprint evidence in a petty theft
case. The Farrow case was the first time that the cutting-edge technology was used in a high-profile murder
case.
• Since the cash box in which the Farrow’s stored their cash receipts was empty, it was clear to Scotland Yard
investigators that robbery was the motive for the crime. One print on the box did not match the victims or
any of the still-tiny file of criminal prints that Scotland Yard possessed. Fortunately, a local milkman reported
seeing two young men in the vicinity of the Farrow house on the day of the murders. Soon identified as
brothers Alfred and Albert Stratton, the police began interviewing their friends.
• A week later, authorities finally caught up with the Stratton brothers and
fingerprinted them. Alfred’s right thumb was a perfect match for the print on the
Farrow’s cash box.
• The fingerprint evidence became the prosecution’s only solid evidence when the
milkman was unable to positively identify the Strattons. The Stratton brothers
were convicted and hanged on May 23, 1905. Since then, fingerprint evidence
has become commonplace in criminal trials and the lack of it is even used by
defense attorneys.
The Will and William West case: The identical inmates that showed the need for fingerprinting, 1903

• On May 1, 1903, an African-American man named Will West entered the United
States Penitentiary at Leavenworth. Like any other new prisoner, West was
subjected to the standard admission procedure: prison clerks took photographs, a
physical description, and eleven anthropometric measurements.
• Using West’s measurements and description, identification clerks matched him to
the record of William West, who had a previous conviction for murder. Not
surprisingly, in the clerks’ view, West denied that he was this man.
• The second West was summoned, and he looked startlingly like the first one.
Subsequently, the fingerprints of Will West and William West were compared.
The patterns bore no resemblance.
• The fallibility of three systems of personal identification (photographs, Bertillon
measurements, and names) was demonstrated by this one case. The value of
fingerprints as means of identification was established.
• After the Will West-William West case, most police departments began using
photographs, Bertillon measurements, and fingerprints on their mugshot files.
Eventually, the Bertillon system was discarded.
• Will West, the newer of the two Leavenworth inmates, served his
manslaughter sentence and left no trail after his release, thus
disappearing from history.
• William West, the lifer, spent time in solitary confinement for fighting
and creating disturbances during his early years behind bars. He was
released on parole in 1919, but not before making a dash for
freedom.
ROJAS MURDERS
June 19, 1892, two children were murdered on the outskirts of the
town of Necochea on the coast of Argentina. The victims were
illegitimate children of a 26-year-old woman named Francisca Rojas.
Rojas blamed Velasquez, an older man who worked at nearby ranch.
However, Velasquez claimed his innocence. On July 8, 1892, the report
reached La Plata. Police Inspector Alvarez of the Central Police was
sent to Necochea to assist the local police with the investigation.
Alvarez examined the scene and he noticed a brown stain on the
bedroom door. Careful examination revealed that it was a fingerprint.
Alvarez had received basic training in fingerprint identification from
Vucetich. Remembering what he had been taught, he cut out the piece
of the door with fingerprint on it. He returned to Necochea and
requested that Rojas be fingerprinted.
Alvarez compared the fingerprints under a magnifying glass. With his minimal
instruction in fingerprinting, he could plainly see that the print was Rojas right
thumb. When this evidence was presented to her she admitted that she had killed
her children. The children had stood in the way of her marriage to the other man.
When Alvarez returned to La Plata with the piece of door with Rojas
fingerprint Vucetich’s faith in fingerprints was proven. This case was reported as
the first murder solved by fingerprints.
In 1894 Vucetich published a book entitled “General Introduction to the
Procedures of Anthropometry and Fingerprinting.” Argentina became the first
country in the world to abolish anthropometry and file criminal records solely by
fingerprint classification.
 The 2012 Latent Hit of the Year Award was presented to the Omaha Police Department—Detective Douglas
Herout and Senior Crime Laboratory Technician Laura Casey—for their efforts to identify the man responsible
for a brutal murder more than 30 years ago.

• The crime: In 1978, 61-year-old Carroll Bonnet was stabbed to death in his
apartment. Police collected evidence, including latent fingerprints and palmprints
from the victim’s bathroom (officers believed the killer was trying to wash off
blood and other evidence before leaving the apartment). The victim’s car was
then stolen.
• The investigation: The car was found in Illinois, but after collecting additional
latent prints, investigators couldn’t develop any new leads. The crime scene
evidence was processed, and latent prints recovered from the scene and the car
were searched against local and state fingerprint files. Investigators also sent
fingerprint requests to agencies outside Nebraska, but no matches were returned
and the case soon went cold.
• The re-investigation: In late 2008, the Omaha Police Department received an
inquiry on the case, prompting technician Laura Casey to search the prints against
IAFIS (which didn’t exist in 1978). In less than five hours, IAFIS returned possible
candidates for comparison purposes. Casey spent days carefully examining the
prints and came up with a positive identification—Jerry Watson, who was serving
time in an Illinois prison on burglary charges.
• Testing determined that Watson’s DNA matched DNA recovered at the crime
scene, a finding that—combined with Watson’s identified prints—resulted in
murder charges and a conviction. On October 17, 2011—33 years to the day that
Bonnet’s body was discovered—his killer was sentenced to life in prison.
 SPA MURDERS (State of Florida vs. 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. On July 31, 1979,
Stephen William Beattie was found guilty of three counts of first degree
murder. On February 1, 1979, he was sentenced to three consecutive
death sentences. Beattie committed suicide within three years of his
sentence in prison while awaiting execution. He maintained his
innocence even to the end.
 SUMMARY OF TERMS

1. ANALYSIS OF FINGERPRINT = The unknown ridge structure (latent

print) is examined. The specific area of the finger, palm or sole of the
foot suspected of making the impression is determined. The clarity of
the impression and the variety of details are established.
2. ANTHROPOMETRY = A system of identification of individuals by
measurements of the parts of the body developed by Alphonse
Bertillon.
3. APPENDAGE = A short ridge at the top or summit of a recurve usually
at right angles.
4. ARBITRARY COUNT = It refers to the number “one” added to the sum of
the numerator and denominator in the Primary Classification.
5. AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AFIS) = An
electronic fingerprinting method 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.
6. BICHROMATIC = A multi-colored powder used to process an object with
the purpose of visualizing friction ridge detail. To avoid damaging a latent
print, powders are best applied with a camel hair or fiberglass brush.
7. BLOCKING OUT = The placing on the fingerprint card the results of the
interpretation of all ten patterns by letters, symbols or numbers required for
each rolled print.
8. BRACHYDACTYLY = Abnormal shortness of fingers and toes.
9. BULB OF THE FINGERS = The portion of the friction skin on the tips of the
fingers, thumbs, and toes in the digital phalanx, from side of the nail to the
opposite side of the nail.
10. CHEILOSCOPY = The study of lip prints.
11. CLASSIFICATION = It refers to the formula derived from a complete set of
fingerprint patterns or the arrangement of fingerprint records into groups or
subgroups for filing purposes.
12. COMPARISON OF PRINTS = The friction ridge structure (latent
impression) is then compared to the exemplars.
13. CONGENITAL = Of relating to a condition that is present at birth as a
result of either hereditary or environmental influences.
14. CORE OR INNER TERMINUS = It is a point on the ridge formation
usually located at the center or heart of the fingerprint pattern.
15. CORIUM = Dermis; often referred to as the true skin.
16. CREASES = These are thin, usually straight, narrow white lines
transversely or formed side to side, across the print, causing the puckering
of the ridges.
17. DACTYL = It means “finger” derived from the Greek word, “daktylos.”
18. DEGLOVING = The unintentional separation of the skin from the hands
or feet, usually as a whole which resembles a glove. This is the result of a
deceased body’s prolonged immersion in water.
19. DELTA OR OUTER TERMINUS = It is a point on the ridge formation at or
directly in front or near the center of the divergence of the type lines.
20. DERMATOGLYPHICS = Study of the surface markings of the skin;
friction ridges.
21. DISCREPANCY = A difference in two ridge impressions due to
different sources of the impression (exclusion).
22. DISTAL INTER PHALANGEAL FLEXION CREASE = The top crease in a
finger.
23. DISSOCIATED RIDGES = These are usually ridges having no well-
defined patterns. These ridges are extremely short, appear like a series
of patches caused by disturbance or development process at early fetal
life of the individual.
24. DORSAL = The backside of the hand, the non palmar side.
25. DYSPLASIA = Ridge units that did not form complete friction ridges
due to a genetic cause.
26. EDGEOSCOPY = An identification process where characteristics
along the ridge edge would be compared and evaluated for comparison
purposes. These characteristics are the result of the alignment and
shape of individual ridge units as well as the pores close to the edge of
the ridge.
27. END OR TERMINATION = An abrupt stop in the course of a ridge.
28. EPITHELIAL CELLS = The millions of cells that line and protect the
external and internal surfaces of the body. Epithelial cells from
epithelial tissues such as the skin and mucous membrane.
29. EVALUATION OF PRINTS = Similarities and dissimilarities present in
the ridge structure will each have specific value toward establishing the
individuality of the area of friction structure. It is either an
identification, not an identification or the ridge structure is of no value
for identification purposes.
30. FABRICATED LATENT PRINT = A “fabricated” latent print is a representation
of print that never existed on the surface from which its purportedly came. A
fabricated print is fabricated evidence produced by a police employee in order
to bolster a case or frame a person.
31. FORGED LATENT PRINT = A “forged” latent print is one which actually exists
on a surface, but was not left by the person whose fingerprint it represents. A
forged print would be a latent print planted at the crime scene by the true
criminal in order to fool the police.
32. FRICTION RIDGE DETAILS (Morphology) = An area comprised of the
combination of ridge flow, ridge characteristics and ridge structure.
33. FRICTION RIDGE UNIT = Single section of friction ridge containing one pore.
34. INTERVENING RIDGES = The number of friction ridges between two
characteristics. (Core and delta)
37. KERATINOCYTE = A cell which is found in our skin. It is the major
constituent of the epidermis. In their process of maturation, keratinocytes
die and eventually become the horny protective layer of our skin.
38. KNOWN PRINT (FINGER, PALM FOOT) = A recording of an individual’s
friction ridges with black ink, electronic images, photography, or other
medium on a contrasting background.
39. KONAI, RAJYADHAR = It was one of the first people Herschel
fingerprinted as a means of identification. This was noted as the first
practical use of fingerprints. On July 28,1858, Herschel obtained the
entire hand impression of Raiyadhar Konai as a signature on a contract.
40. LATENT PRINTS = These are fingerprint impressions found at the scene
of the crime.
41. LIFTING OF LATENT PRINTS = This involves using some adhesive tapes
(fingerprint lifting tape) to remove powdered/developed print from a
surface.
42. MACRODACTYLY = Congenitally abnormal largeness of fingers and toe.
43. MAJOR CASE PRINTS = A systematic recording of all friction ridge detail
appearing on the palmar sides of the hands. This includes the extreme
sides of the palms, joints, tips, and sides of the fingers.
44. MINUTIAE = Small details.
46. OLIGODACTYLY = Fewer than the normal fingers or toes. Oligo – is
from the Greek “oligos” (few or scanty) + dactyl from the Greek word
“dactylos” (finger) = few fingers.
47. ORTHODACTYLY = Fingers and toes cannot be flexed.
48. PARTIAL FINGERPRINT = A latent print in which only a portion of the
pattern area is visible or able to be recovered.
49. PATENT PRINT = Friction ridge impression of unknown origin, visible
without development.
50. PATTERN FORMATIONS = Friction ridge skin arrangement formed as
early as the third month of gestation.
51. PELMATOSCOPY = The science which studies the friction ridges of the
soles.
52. PENTADACTYLOUS = Having five fingers on each limb.
53. PENTADACTYLY = The occurrence of five fingers or toes on the hand or
foot.
54. PLANTAR AREA = The friction ridge skin area on the side and underside
of the foot.
55. POLYDACTYLY = A hand or foot having more than the normal number of
fingers or toes.
56. POLYDACTYLISM = It is the appearance of extra finger.
57. POINTS = It refers to the identical characteristics that are found in the
fingerprints from known and questioned sources. It includes all different types that
occur outside the pattern area on the finger as well as on the first and second joints
of the fingers and the entire palm of the hand. They are also present on the toes and
the entire sole of the foot; they may be found in any area where friction ridges occur.
58. PORE = An opening that is present along the surface of the friction ridges. It is
fairly evenly spaced due to the fact that one pore opening along with one sweat
gland exists for each ridge unit.
59. QUALITATIVE = The clarity of information contained within a friction ridge
impression.
60. QUANTITATIVE = The amount of information contained within a friction ridge
impression.
61. RECORD PRINT = Those made for an identification file, or for a search
to determine whether the person has previously filed fingerprint record,
or for comparison with chance prints, are recorded with purpose.
62. RIDGE APLASIA = Congenital absence of friction ridge skin.
63. RIDGE CHARACTERISTICS = These are little details in the ridges of the
fingerprint patterns which are used in comparing and identifying
fingerprints. This term is also known as minutiae. These minute
variations and irregularities in the ridge themselves.
64. RIDGE FLOW = The direction of a series of adjacent friction ridges in a
directional arrangement.
65. RIDGE PATH = The directional flow of a single friction ridge; the
course of single friction ridge.
66. RIDGE UNIT = Small section of a friction ridge containing one pore.
67. RIDGEOLOGY = The study of uniqueness of friction ridge skin and its
use for personal identification (individualization).
68. SAMPSON, WILLIAM C. = He is recognized as the most
knowledgeable individual regarding the recovery of latent prints from
human skin.
69. SCARF SKIN = Dry or dead skin which has scaled and peeled away
from the surface skin.
70. SECONDARY RIDGES = Ridges on the bottom of the epidermis under
the surface furrows.
71. SEARCHING = An attempt to locate in a file a print identical to the
current print, and thus to establish an identification.
72. SEQUENCING = The placing of a group of classified set of
fingerprints into their correct filing order before beginning to file or
search them.
73. SHOULDERS = The point at which the recurving ridge of a loop-type
pattern definitely turns inward or curves.
74. SPIKE = An ending ridge at the center of a pattern which forms an
upthrust.
75. STAPLE = A single recurving ridge at the center of the pattern area.
76. TACTILE = Pertaining to the sense of touch.
77. THENAR AREA = The large cushion of the palm located at the base
of the thumb.
79. SYNDACTYLY = It refers to webbed fingers. Side to side fusion of digits.
80. ULNA = The larger of the two bones of the forearm, on the palmar side of the
little finger.
81. UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS = Characteristics used to individualize patterns;
specific details
82. UNIQUENESS = Very uncommon, unusual, atypical, or remarkable; a degree of
distinguishing distinctiveness.
83. VERIFICATION OF PRINTS = The opinion of the forensic identification examiner
must be verified by another qualified examiner.
84. VOLAR PADS = Palmar and plantar fetal growth that affects friction ridge skin
development.
THANK YOU!