NCJ Number
191131
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 28 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2001 Pages: 96-101
Date Published
September 2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses handwriting and document analysis.
Abstract
Handwriting is as unique as fingerprints and everyone has unique handwriting characteristics. Handwriting or document examiners are trained to detect and identify those characteristics. They are also trained to recognize writing that has been coerced or written under duress. Handwriting experts use several types of tools in their work, including various microscopes and measuring devices. A stereoscopic microscope enables a document examiner to view a three-dimensional image and study fine details. A triocular microscope is a stereoscopic microscope with a third eyepiece allowing the examiner to take photographs of the area examined. An Electrostatic Detection Apparatus can detect indented (hidden) writing without destroying the original document. A computerized approach to this technology using a scanner, PC, and printer can analyze handwriting in letters and similar documents but cannot identify forgery on checks. Studies are underway to identify male/female writing, writing of certain ethnic groups, writers in rural or heavily populated areas, adult or child, and left- or right-handed persons.