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Getting the Most From Fingerprint Powders

NCJ Number
179038
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 49 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 1999 Pages: 494-504
Author(s)
Kevin M. Parisi
Editor(s)
David L. Grieve
Date Published
1999
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the results of an experiment that used Lightning Pink-wop Fluorescent Powder and Sirchie White Fingerprint Powder to develop latent fingerprints on adhesive surfaces.
Abstract
The tape surfaces were gray duct tape, 3 M Scotch Tape 2 inches wide (clear plastic), 3 M Scotch Magic Tape (3/4 inch clear plastic tape), and black electrical tape. Method I used .5 grams of Lightning Pink-wop powder, 3 ml of Liqui-nox detergent, and 3 ml of distilled water. Method II used .5 grams of Lightning Pink-wop powder and 3 ml of Kodak Photo-flo. Method III used .5 grams of Sirchie White Fingerprint Powder, 3 ml of Liqui-nox detergent, and 3 ml of distilled water. Method I produced excellent results, developing identifiable latent impressions on each of the selected adhesive surfaces. Method II failed to produce positive results. Method III produced extraordinary results; the impressions improved by increasing the number of applications. Thus, by using a number of different powders along with a carrier such as Liqui-nox detergent, examiners can now approach processing adhesive surfaces in the same manner as they do when using conventional powders to process non-porous items. 3 figures