NCJ Number
169840
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 46 Issue: 5 Dated: (September/October 1996) Pages: 573-580
Date Published
1996
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article addresses some questions that must be answered in setting standards for the digital enhancement and transmission of latent prints.
Abstract
As digital imaging technology begins to replace traditional film-based photography for the recording of latent fingerprints, latent examiners and evidence technicians will begin to take for granted the ability to capture and view a latent fingerprint image in minutes rather than hours. The ability to enhance a marginal latent fingerprint or even one that would normally be unidentifiable will continue to advance as computer software technology is applied in a manner similar to the way forensic light sources were applied in the late 1980's. The ability to capture and transmit images by phone line to any destination in the world within minutes will also become a factor as criminals continue to migrate from one region to another. With these benefits come additional questions and responsibilities that must be addressed before the International Association for Identification (IAI) can go forward as a coordinated and unified body. One issue involves the definitions and terms the IAI is going to adopt when describing the technology and digital enhancement techniques to colleagues and the legal system. A second issue is whether there should be a minimum acceptable standard for chain-of-custody procedures, image resolution, file format, and output quality. A third issue is whether latent images should be compressed; and a fourth issue is whether the AIA should impose a standard on the transmission of latent images to ensure there is a baseline compatibility between agencies. This paper discusses each of these issues.