Contrast: An Investigator's Basic Reference Guide to Fingerprint Identification Concepts, Second Edition

• NCJ Number: 218440
• Author(s): Craig A. Coppock
• Date Published: 2007
• Length: 206 pages
• Sale Source: Charles C. Thomas
• Publication Format: Book (Hardbound)
• Publication Type: Reference Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This guidebook offers a new approach in the instruction of basic fingerprint identification concepts, by presenting conceptual ideas in context with the basics of fingerprint science.

Abstract

Acknowledged as an excellent quick reference source, this book is intended for new and experienced crime scene investigators, patrol officers, attorneys, and criminal justice students who seek to develop or add fingerprint identification to their investigative skills. It allows 10-print and latent print examiners to reach their full potential as specialized experts. The guidebook illustrates the basic concepts involved in the science of fingerprints and fingerprint identification. It clarifies many of the oversimplified generalities that pervade the science of fingerprint identification and highlights the many possibilities and limitations of fingerprint identification. The second edition highlights the full breadth of “Dactylscopy,” the science of friction skin individualization. A full explanation of forensic science’s comparative methodology, Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification process, or ACE-V is reviewed. A detailed narrative of the Daubert requirements is provided as well as a description of how these new procedural directives cover the admission of scientific evidence and expert testimony. It offers ideas for upgrading standard operation office procedures relating to fingerprint comparisons, followed by a training outline. The guide also offers 356 comprehensive definitions of fingerprint terms. The chapters in the guidebook are liberally illustrated covering many areas: (1) fingerprints in context; (2) friction skin and friction skin classification; (3) exemplar fingerprint impressions; (4) latent fingerprint development and recovery; (5) special development processes and conditions; (6) latent fingerprint quality variations; (7) fingerprint identification; (8) fingerprint fabrications, errors, and evidence; (9) photography, image enhancement, and color; (10) computerized fingerprint databases; (11) review of scientific comparison evidence; (12) legal courts and Dactylscopy; and (13) training and protocol outline for 10-print and latent print examiners. Figures, appendixes A-E, glossary and references