NCJ Number
226460
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 59 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2009 Pages: 144-151
Date Published
March 2009
Length
8 pages
Annotation
A test was designed for the purpose of determining whether cyanoacrylate fuming of latex and nitrile gloves and assorted tapes (duct tape, making tape, and scotch tape) prior to processing the items with a powder suspension technique hindered the development of latent fingerprints.
Abstract
The testing confirmed a prior reported test (Pleckaitis, 2007) that indicated cyanoacrylate fuming could interfere with a subsequent powder suspension processing. No ridge detail developed on the items that had been previously subjected to cyanoacrylate fumes; however, the items that were processed with only the alternative powder suspension (no cyanoacrylate fuming) did produce some useful prints. Several prints of excellent quality were developed on all four types of tape that had not been subjected to glue fumes. Based on the findings of the current and prior tests, the author suggests that technicians do not fume items such as tape, labels, and gloves that will require processing with Sticky-side Powder or an alternative powder suspension. Although some technicians prefer to fume the nonadhesive side before processing, viewing the nonadhesive side with a noninvasive technique, such as the Sirchie KrimeSite Imager, would be prudent. Also, a light dusting with black or dichromatic magnetic fingerprint powder might be sufficient to develop ridge detail on the nonadhesive side, being careful not to get any powder on the adhesive side. The descriptions of materials and methods address the types of gloves and tapes and the testing design and procedures. 7 figures and 2 references