Fingerprints: Analysis and Understanding the Science

"Fingerprints: Analysis and Understanding the Science, Second Edition is a concise text designed to cover the fundamental techniques of obtaining and analyzing latent fingerprint evidence. Using an outline format for ease in referencing and review, the book is laid out and written in an easy to understand format designed for those collecting evidence who need to understand the principles. Divided into two parts, the book begins with the basics of analysis, providing a brief history, systematic methods of identification, fingerprint pattern types and their associated terminologies, and current classifications. The second section covers the identification and presentation of evidence in the courtroom, demonstrating both the traditional, manual method of lifting prints and the newer techniques for automated and live scans. Coverage provides instruction on searching and developing latent prints, storage, and comparison of prints. New to this edition are updated techniques on collecting and preserving fingerprint evidence-including packaging and maintaining chain of custody-challenges to fingerprint evidence, unusual and unique cases, light sources, latent backing cards and lifting material, casting material, ten print cards, a discussion of laboratory equipment and comparison tools, enhancement of blood prints, the addition of photography techniques, a more detailed documentation process and additional chemical and lifting techniques"--