Forensic Fingerprinting Facts

Movies and television portray fingerprints as clues to solving mysteries and highlight the importance of forensic fingerprinting. Although Hollywood paints a glamorous--and sometimes unrealistic--picture of the profession, it still plays an extremely important role in solving real crimes.

Friction Ridges

A human palm, sole and fingers have raised skin ridges known as "friction ridges." These ridges form patterns classified as whorls, arches and loops, which are used by forensic investigators for analysis. Fingerprints are most commonly taken from the hands, but footprints may also be important when recovered in a crime scene.

Method Origins

British scientist Sir Henry Edward developed the Ten Print System in the late 1800s. It was first used in India, enabling police authorities to categorize and pinpoint individual marks. Edward grouped the patterns into two value patterns and nonvalue patterns with numerical values assigned to each, allowing him to use a common method of identification.

This method was used for years until the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) was introduced in the 1980s. The system, still based on Edward's work, was developed by the Japanese National Police Agency. Computerization hastened the complicated process in the Ten Print System and now allows for easy identification during forensic analysis.

Print Types

Forensic investigators classify the fingerprints they uncover in a crime scene; marks that are not immediately visible and can only be seen by using chemical or other techniques are called latent prints. Fingerprints seen with the naked eye are either patent or plastic prints, each categorized by how it was imprinted.

IAI & Examiner Program

In 1915, the first forensic identification group was established, the International Association for Identification (IAI), headed by Inspector Harry H. Caldwell of the Oakland (California) Police Department's Bureau of Identification. In 1977, the organization created the Certified Latent Print Examiner program, a process aimed to confirm people's expertise in the science of forensic fingerprinting.

Technological Breakthroughs

Technology continues to contribute to the enhancement of fingerprint-recognition science. Aside from computerization introduced in the 1980s, most government institutions worldwide now use scanners to automate fingerprint capture. This enables fingerprint images to be viewed in higher resolutions during forensic analysis.

References

• International Association For Identification: IAI History
• Onin: The History of Fingerprints