CJUS 301 Chapter 6

You have been asked to search for fingerprints at the scene of a residential burglary. Describe where you would search for any fingerprints left behind by the suspect.

-Doorknobs/locks/frame -Windowsill/window pane -On broken glass from windows -In the kitchen on glassware

List the three main groups of fingerprints that can be found at the scene of the crime.

-Plastic fingerprints -Prints from fingers contaminated with foreign matter -Latent fingerprints

Can fingerprints be lifted from human skin? If so, describe one of the techniques.

A specially prepared inkpad, then presses finger against paper to reveal the inked print.

Describe the proper procedure for collecting and preserving a plastic fingerprint.

It can be collected and sent to the crime lab right away if it's easy and can withstand being transported. If removing the print poses a problem, it should be photographed with oblique lighting, and then an appropriate casting material may be used to preserve the impression.

Describe how fingerprints are formed at the scene of a crime.

Prints are formed by friction ridges, which deposit grease and perspiration on the object touched, and may be produced when criminals take hold of an object or support themselves with their hands.

(True/False) One of the most important purposes of physical evidence is to establish the identity of the suspect or victim.

True

You have been asked to collect a knife from the crime scene with a visible fingerprint in blood. Describe how you would package this item up.

Wedge the knife in a strong box, making sure that the surface of the knife isn't touching any part of the box. Then, once the box is closed, cushion around the box to protect the knife from breaking during transport.

Which of the following choices in an alternative to taking inked fingerprints from suspects? a) CODIS b) Livescan c) AFIS d) NIBIN

b) Livescan

Which of the following specialized personnel would be the most appropriate when attempting to identify skeletal remains? a) Forensic archaeologist b) Criminalist c) Forensic anthropologist d) Coroner

c) Forensic anthropologist

Which of the following chemicals would be the most appropriate when attempting to locate fingerprints on the sticky side of tape? a) DFO b) SPR c) Gentian violet d) Ninhydrin

c) Gentian violet