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Learn about the uniqueness of fingerprints, the classification system, AFIS technology, patterns, types at crime scenes, searching and enhancing methods, and steps in identifying prints. Get insights into matching and confirming fingerprints.
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Reasons they became useful • Discovered that they are unique. No 2 alike. • A classification system was developed. • Loops • Whorls • Arches
Classification • Computer database • AFIS Automated Fingerprint Identification System • 1990 • IAFIS Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System • Criminal histories; mug shots; scars and tattoo photos; physical characteristics like height, weight, and hair and eye color; and aliases. • Response time: • 10 minutes for electronically submitted criminal prints. • One hour for electronically submitted civil prints.
Patterns • Loop – comes in one side and out that same side. One delta on the side opposite from where it starts and exits. Most common Turn Enter Delta Exit
Patterns • Whorl – Circular shape. Two deltas on either side. Delta Delta
Patterns • Arch – Up thrust, with a decline. Exits opposite side. Up Thrust Enter Exit
Types of fingerprints at crime scene • Plastic – finger contacts a soft surface such as putty. • Visible. Finger is covered with a liquid such as blood and then contacts a hard surface. • Latent – Invisible. Oils, salts and other debris stick to a surface when it is touched by a finger. Most common.
Methods to search for fingerprints • Lighting – flash light, etc. • Chemical reaction • Iodine mixes with starches in the fingerprint and turns brown • Ninhydrin mixes with the amino acids in the fingerprints and turns purple.
Methods to enhance a fingerprint • Dusting
Combination methods • Used for slick surfaces. • Superglue and dusting.
Steps in identifying a fingerprint • Identifying the pattern (loop, whorl, arch) • Looking for minutiae • Ridge ending • Bifurcation • Island • Core • Delta • Cicatrix
Questions • What do you compare a lifted print to? • A known sample • How many points does the FBI use in identifying a print? • 14 • How does a fingerprint match become confirmed? • With a microscopic match by a human being.