NCJ Number
211158
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 55 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2005 Pages: 605-610
Date Published
September 2005
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of window-tinting film as a nonconductive barrier in obtaining shoe impressions from metal surfaces.
Abstract
Electrostatic dust print lifters are an effective tool for obtaining dusty shoe impressions on a variety of surfaces. However, the electrical nature of these devices makes their use on metal surfaces challenging and difficult. These devices use a high-voltage electrical current to charge a surface and attract dust particles left from shoe outsoles and other objects to metallic film. As a remedy to this issue, window-tinting film offers some distinct advantages. The film can be found at many retail automotive supply stores and the metallic lifting sheet can be reused on several impressions before being discarded. The application of window-tinting film between the metallic lifting sheet and the shoe impression has proven to be effective in obtaining dusty shoe impressions. The use of a nonconductive film barrier allows for the use of the metallic film and the electrostatic dust lifter in obtaining shoe impressions from metal surfaces, such as automobiles and countertops. Figures, references