NCJ Number
189063
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 51 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2001 Pages: 222-299
Editor(s)
David L. Grieve
Date Published
2001
Length
78 pages
Annotation
This report describes the Scientific Working Group on Friction Ridge Analysis, Study and Technology (SWGFAST) and presentes current SWGFAST guidelines, as well as draft documents under review for use within the latent print community.
Abstract
This report begins with an introduction to the organizational structure, procedures, and history and goals of the Scientific Working Group on Friction Ridge Analysis, Study and Technology (SWGFAST). SWGFAST uses a process of creation, review, revision, publication, community review, revision and finally adoption to create the various guidelines on friction ridge analysis, study and technology with the intent to gain consensus within the latent print community. All SWGFAST guidelines and standards directed for use have adopted following the procedure. SWGFAST reviews all documents on a 5-year cycle with allotted modifications during the interim. This report continued with descriptions and outlines of three previously approved guidelines which included: (1) Minimum Qualifications for Latent Print Examiner Trainees; (2) Training to Competency for Latent Print Examiners; and (3) Quality Assurance Guidelines for Latent Print Examiners. The report followed with eight “Drafts for Comments”, four of which were topical glossaries. The “Drafts for Comments” included: (1) Guidelines for Professional Conduct; (2) Validation of Research and Technology; (3) Friction Ridge Automation Training Guidelines; (4) Friction Ridge Digital Imaging Guidelines; (5) Friction Ridge Automation Glossary; (6) Fingerprint Classification Glossary; (7) Anatomy Glossary; and (8) Identification Glossary. In the Drafts for Comments, a comment period is noted and instructions for written responses are provided. The introduction and the bylaws sections offered an explanation of SWGFAST and how interested parties can participate, along with a listing of current SWGFAST members. Future topics to be addressed by SWGFAST included chemical processing and terms used historically or now considered antiquated.