1. © Think Forensic 2007
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2. FINGERPRINTS

3. Topics to be covered The background behind fingerprints
How can fingerprints be detected?
How can they be classified?
How do they help solve crimes?
Point 1 includes
How fingerprints were discovered
What are fingerprints?
Why do we have fingerprints?
Why are they unique to each individual?
Why do we leave marks when we touch?
How can fingerprints be detected?
How can they be classified?
How do they help solve crimes?

4. Background Consist of valleys and ridges on finger pads
Also present on palms, soles of feet and toes
Formed in the womb
Unique to individuals
Remain unchanged except for permanent scarring
Point 1
Also present on the toes and

5. Why do we have fingerprints?
Provide friction/aid grip
Dispel water and liquid
Aid sensitivity of touch

6. Why do we leave marks when we touch something?
The sweat leaves
a pattern matching
our fingerprints
Skin contains pores
and sweat glands
When we touch
something we leave a
trace of sweat behind

7. History of fingerprints
Edward Henry Scotland Yard Fingerprint Office 1901
Francis Galton UK 1892 classified fingerprints
8th Century Japan possible use
India 1858 William James Herschel prints used to prove identity
Argentina 1892 Juan Vucetich first criminal case

8. 3 Main Fingerprint Patterns
Whorl
Loop
Arch

9. Characteristics SPUR BRIDGE CORE DELTA BIFURCATION DOT LAKE RIDGE
ENDING
CORE
ISLAND
DELTA

10. Unique comparison Final comparison is made by 3 fingerprint experts

11. Fingerprint Characteristics
DOT
ISLAND
CORE
ENDING
SPUR
LAKE
DELTA
RIDGE ENDING

12. Comparison
Fingerprints are compared using (AFR) Automatic fingerprint recognition system

13. International Law Enforcement International Liaison

14. For more information on fingerprinting including other techniques please visit the interactive crime scene on our website
© Think Forensic 2007
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