NCJ Number
221025
Journal
Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal Volume: 40 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2007 Pages: 97-103
Date Published
September 2007
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes a new innovative process involved in preserving the quality of fingerprints removed from the interior rear-view mirrors of vehicles.
Abstract
All fingerprints found on interior rear-view mirrors of vehicles revealed by cyanoacrylate processing can be photographed with an improved quality; the techniques of cleaning off the layers of paint and the silver coating. A dye solution consisting of equal parts Basic Yellow and Basic Red may be used after the cyanoacrylate treatment in order to optimize the quality of the prints. The process is nontoxic and easy to use. A hacksaw, a powerful paint remover, and a special metal oxide abrasive are all that is required. The process may be used in cases of failure of the shallow depth of field technique. It can be used easily at a crime scene, as well as applied to any other types of mirrors. Latent fingerprints inside cars are developed using cyanoacrylate fuming. Prints are often revealed on interior rear-view mirrors. Because these produce a double reflection, the ridges in a photograph are split into two, or their quality is reduced. In order to preserve photographically the level of detail of the fingerprints, a process was developed that consists of eliminating the reflecting layer and the two coats of paint that are on the back of the rear-view mirror. Figures and references