NCJ Number
229999
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 60 Issue: 2 Dated: March /April 2010 Pages: 223-258
Date Published
March 2010
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This study examined baseline current latent print training programs throughout the United States.
Abstract
With no standardized training program in the field of latent prints, agencies are left to design and implement their own training programs. At a time when industry standards are being challenged in courtrooms, this type of training methodology has come into question. The purpose of this study was to determine baseline current practices throughout the United States and to analyze whether these practices are consistent. A survey was conducted to determine the following: whether agencies do, in fact, have formal written training programs, whether these training programs adhere to SWGFAST training-to-competency guidelines as written, whether there is consensus as to how these guidelines are interpreted, and whether there is a difference in training standards between ASCLD/LAB accredited agencies and nonaccredited agencies. The data revealed that although most agencies have written training programs, there is very little consistency or adherence to published guidelines. Tables, references, and appendixes (Published Abstract)