NCJ Number
218706
Date Published
January 2003
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This study assessed the effectiveness of Liqui-Drox as a process for developing latent fingerprints on the adhesive side of a variety of types of tapes, comparing it to the following standard processes at two lengths of storage time: alternate black powder, ash gray powder, gentian violet, and sticky-side powder.
Abstract
The study concluded that Liqui-Drox is sufficiently effective to be used as a standard process for immediate development of latent prints on the adhesive side of clear Scotch tape, dark brown packing tape, and orange transparent packing tape; however, 1 month after the storage of tape on acetate, Liqui-Drox had reduced effectiveness in developing latent prints. Liqui-Drox can also be used as an alternative method on some tapes. Because prints developed with Liqui-Drox will fade under increased exposure to long-wave ultraviolet light, they should be photographed as soon as possible. Liqui-Drox did not develop fingerprints on 11 of the 25 tapes. Liqui-Drox is a fluorescent process proven effective in developing latent prints on both sides of dark tapes; however, prior to this study, it had not been assessed on light-colored tapes, and it had not been compared to other adhesive-side processes. Fingerprints were placed on 2 sets of 25 tapes of varying colors, brands, and widths. The sets were processed at two different times: approximately 2 minutes after the fingerprints were deposited on the tape and after 1 month of storage in an evidence locker. Four latent print examiners analyzed and rated each photographed fingerprint based on the number of level-two detail features. 2 references