Recovery of fingermarks from surfaces previously considered to be problematic within practice

Abstract

Fingerprints are an important type of evidence within the criminal justice system, and these have been
used for multiple purposes since the 19th century. Within forensic investigation these are primarily
used for identification and/or elimination purposes. Numerous methods and techniques, including physical and chemical procedures, are used to enhance and recover fingermarks from surfaces. However, there are continuing surface and exhibit types which are considered to be problematic to develop and recover within practice.

The purpose of this research was to overcome some of these issues focusing specifically on fingerprints in/on anti-climb paint, leaves, and feathers. The effectiveness of cyanoacrylate ester fuming (CEF) was implemented for all exhibit types, with the addition of physical developer (magnetic powder) on leaves and feathers (chapter 4). The adhesion of the physical developer was consistent throughout feathers, and green leaves, but varying results were obtained from brown leaves. The overall recovery types chosen were lifting (J-lar tape lift and gel lift), and casting (Provil and resin), with varying results being obtained both in terms of ridge detail recovered, as well as damage caused to the exhibit.

CEF development on anti-climb paint produced robust fingermarks and was therefore suitable for casting, due to the presence of three-dimensional features (chapter 3). Casting methods captured a good level of ridge detail, with a small number of limitations, primarily caused by the quality of the original fingerprint deposit. Recovery techniques proposed within this work allow for preservation of ridge detail on a surface previously considered difficult in practice.

Date of Award	2022
Original language	English