NCJ Number
233781
Journal
Identification Canada Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2009 Pages: 1-44
Date Published
March 2009
Length
44 pages
Annotation
This issue's feature articles describe some of the difficulties involved when simulating edge characteristics of footwear and discuss the equipment and process used for spraying ninhydrin over large, confined areas in order to develop latent fingerprints at scenes of serious crime.
Abstract
The first article notes that two-dimensional and three-dimensional marks made by footwear are not entirely dependent on the transfer of the greater pattern area of the sole. These additional markings, referred to as edge characteristics, appear as linear striations made by a particular portion of the shoe's or boot's edge. Typically, edge characteristics of footwear are observed in "plastic" substrates such as mud, and the only known method of simulating these impressions involves creating an impression that uses a similar type of substrate, such as modeling clay. The current study addressed the influence of contamination on outsole size and the creation of two-dimensional and three-dimensional sole impressions. Study methods and materials as well as results are described. The second article focuses on the procedures used by the Vancouver Police Department's Forensic Identification Unit (FIU) in using ninhydrin to spray walls for the detection of latent fingerprints at scenes of serious crimes. To date, the FIU has developed useable latent impressions on both painted and unpainted drywall, painted doors and door trim, metal appliances, kitchen cabinets, and metal base board heaters. Spraying ninhydrin should be one of the last steps in examining a serious crime scene. In addition to developing fingerprints, this method can also identify areas of interest for swabbing for suspect/victim DNA, since ninhydrin does not adversely affect DNA testing. A case study includes descriptions of scene preparation, chemical preparation, spray application, and results. This issue concludes with information on recent events of the Canadian Identification Society and a message from the Society's president.