Fingerprint evidence is one of the most common and important pieces of crime scene evidence. One of the most important steps in the examination of fingerprint evidence is locating the prints at the crime scene and accurately processing them. Fingerprints are usually visualized and lifted using fine particles or powders (also known as a physical method), such as powder dusting, luminescent powders, and magnetic powders. There is also a process referred to as chemical lifting, including such techniques as iodine fuming, spray reagents, and cyanoacrylate fuming.
A senior investigator has instructed one of the new recruits to lift possible fingerprints from various spots within the crime scene and to collect and preserve footwear and tiretrack impressions that have been located outside of the abandoned warehouse. This is the first time that the investigator will be performing these duties in an actual crime scene, and he has asked you to help him through the process to ensure that he produces the best evidence. In this assignment, you will provide a walk-through for the new investigator on the fingerprinting and castingprocesses.
The following processes have proven to be reliable for the development of fingerprints:
- Chemical lifting
- Cyanoacrylate fuming
- Fume circulation
- Ninhydrin
- Visualization/lifting in blood
- Visualization/lifting on tape
- Visualization/lifting on currency
- Visualization/lifting from oily or greasy surfaces
- Visualization/lifting from magazines/photos
- Visualization/lifting on painted surfaces
- Visualization/lifting on human skin
Group Portion (1)
- Using the Small Group Discussion Area, discuss the following questions with the other group members:
- What general areas should always be inspected for possible fingerprints? Explain.
- What is the documentation process regarding the lifting of fingerprints? Explain in detail.
- What are the 2 general types of surfaces in which investigators must lift fingerprints? Explain.
- As a group, select 4 of the fingerprinting methods from the list above. All members must use the 4 selections for their individual portions.
Individual Portion
- Address the following in 1-2 pages:
- Explain the following for each fingerprinting method selected by the group:
- Once the surface/material/substance has been designated for fingerprinting, what is the process for the selected method? Describe and explain in detail using a step-by-step process.
- Briefly explain the purpose of each step.
- Be sure to referenec all sources using APA style.