NCJ Number
169838
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 46 Issue: 5 Dated: (September/October 1996) Pages: 542-555
Date Published
1996
Length
14 pages
Annotation
The fingerprint department of the French Criminal Research Institute of the National Police conducted a limited study to determine whether it is possible to develop latent fingerprints on a variety of stones, using standard fingerprint processing methods.
Abstract
Stones are often used in the commission of a variety of crimes, ranging from the breaking of glass in a burglary to their use as a weapon in an assault. Generally, stones have been viewed as the type of surface that could not be successfully examined for latent fingerprints. The current study included a variety of stones handled at random by several donors and then left for specified times under varying conditions. The stones were divided into four groups according to the condition being tested, and each group contained stones of all categories. Results obtained were generally satisfactory on stones that had been left inside or had been outside under cover. Results were consistently negative for stones that were wet. Apparently, water destroys the fingerprints; results were also negative for white limestone, even 1 hour after deposit, because this surface is very porous. Finally, as with any other type of evidence, the quality of the fingerprint deposit and the success of subsequent latent fingerprint development depends on the individual who touched it. Given these results, it is imperative for those involved in an investigation to take all necessary measures to collect and preserve the evidence when they arrive at the scene of a crime. 16 illustrative photographs and a 5-item bibliography