Fingerprinting

Goal:  Identify unknown fingerprints found at the crime scene.

· Classify fingerprints according to pattern of loop, arch, whorl and mixed.
· To lift the latent fingerprint and bloody fingerprints from the crime scene.
· Use this fingerprint classification system to match an unknown fingerprint to a series of known samples

latent print kit
fingerprint ink pad
finger print chart or any paper
lifting tapes
latent-print powders
brushes
magnifying glasses

1.      Roll your finger lightly on the ink pad, then roll the inked finger onto the space in fingerprint chart.   Make sure you obtain a legible fingerprint

2.      Repeat this technique for each finger, until the finger print chart is completely filled.

3.      The instructor will hand out a bag of evidence from the crime scene. 

4.      Students will observe the evidence carefully, then lift the fingerprints.

5.      Carefully dip the brush into the powder.  Apply a small amount of powder to the tip of the brush.

6.      Apply the powder to the surface with a light twirling motion.  If there is a fingerprint, a heavy deposit will appear on the surface.

7.      Gently brush off the excess powder with a light twirling motion.

8.      Apply a lifting tape on fingerprint and remove it slowly.

9.      It is important that the students do not get their own fingerprints on the lifting tape.

10.  Place the lifting tape on a card where you can see and preserve the evidence clearly.

11.  The instructor should have copies of fingerprint from suspects and photocopies of bloody fingerprint that students have found at the crime scene.  

12.  Students will observe the lifted fingerprint, suspect’s finger print, and bloody fingerprint.  Use low power microscope as needed.

13.  Students will classify some of them, and draw conclusion on primary suspects.

· You have learned how to collect fingerprints in a physical way. However, there is another way one can obtain fingerprint chemically. Use your research skill to find what other techniques are available.
· What would be common obstacles in fingerprinting process?
· Definition of Biometric is any specific and uniquely identifiable physical human characteristics that includes retina, iris, voiceprint, handwriting, and more. What other biometric are highly accurate as fingerprint? Why?

· 2 class period for theory and background
· Internet research time – collect information
· 2 lab periods for experimentation and data collection
· 1 class period for analyzing and group discussion.
· Research assignment time – presentation and conclusion