NCJ Number
146720
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 44 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-February 1994) Pages: 9-14
Date Published
1994
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes experiments in lifting latent fingerprints from the antlers of game animals to try to develop physical evidence which can be used in the prosecution of game law violators.
Abstract
Antlers pose particular problems for the development of latent fingerprint impressions because of their porosity, high organic protein content, and rough surface area. To determine effective means for developing latent fingerprints on antlers, various tests were carried out using powder and physical and chemical techniques, under a wide range of moisture and temperature conditions similar to those encountered in the field by law enforcement officers. The article details the chemicals used in these tests, the testing methods, and results. Latent fingerprint development methods such as dusting with granulate fingerprint powder or cyanoacrylate fuming were relatively ineffective. Traditional chemical development methods displayed a tendency to overreact to the organic materials and amino acids in the antlers. Silver nitrate produced little reaction, with poor contrast in the latent impressions developed. Magnetic fingerprint powder dusting was the most consistent in producing identifiable prints on the antler surfaces. Environmental factors did not appear to affect the short-term presence of fingerprints on the antlers. However, impressions absorbed by the antlers were diffused into the antler matrix within a few days, making them difficult, if not impossible, to develop. References and one figure