NCJ Number
232879
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 55 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2010 Pages: 1457-1461
Date Published
November 2010
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The project "Latent Fingerprints and DNA on Human Skin" was the first systematic research in Europe dealing with detection of fingerprints and DNA left by offenders on the skin of corpses.
Abstract
One thousand samples gave results that allow general statements on the materials and methods used. The tests were carried out according to a uniform trial structure. Fingerprints were deposited by natural donors on corpses. The latent fingerprints were treated with magnetic powder or black fingerprint powder. Afterward, they were lifted with silicone casting material (Isomark()) or gelatine foil. All lifts were swabbed to recover DNA. It was possible to visualize comparable and identifiable fingerprints on the skin of corpses (16 percent). In the same categories, magnetic powder (18.4 percent) yielded better results than black fingerprint powder (13.6 percent). The number of comparable and identifiable fingerprints decreased on the lifts (12.7 percent). Isomark() (14.9 percent) was the better lifting material in comparison with gelatine foil (10.1 percent). In one-third of the samples, DNA could be extracted from the powdered and lifted latents. Black fingerprint powder delivered the better result with a rate of 2.2 percent for full DNA profiles and profiles useful for exclusion in comparison with 1.8 percent for the magnetic powder traces. Isomark() (3.1 percent) yielded better results than gelatine foil (0.6 percent). (Published Abstract)