New Electrostatic Process Recovers Visible and Invisible Dust Particles at Crime Scenes

• NCJ Number: 112352
• Journal: Law and Order Volume: 36 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1988) Pages: 31-33
• Author(s): S M Ojena
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article discusses a new technique for the recovery of visible and invisible footwear evidence from surfaces including floors, doors, counters, chairs, fabric, metal, carpet, tile, newspaper and cardboard.

Abstract

The electrostatic process for recovery of dust images for law enforcement purposes is relatively new in the United States, but the concept dates back to 1970 when a Japanese officer discovered that high voltage could be used to recover dust prints. The article uses two case studies to explain how the process can be used to obtain shoe prints as evidence at crime scenes. The procedure for making a dust-lift with the Electrostatic Dust Print Lifter is described. Details are provided for photographing dust prints at the crime scene prior to using the Electrostatic Dust Print Lifter. It is recommended that specialized training be given to employees designated as crime scene technicians to minimize the destruction of dust print evidence at crime scenes.