Review of FBI Latent Print Unit Processes and Recommendations to Improve Practices and Quality

• NCJ Number: 214619
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 56 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2006 Pages: 402-434
• Author(s): Melissa Anne Smrz; Steven G. Burmeister; Anja Einseln; Constance L. Fisher; Robert Fram; Robert B. Stacey; Catherine E. Theisen; Bruce Budowle
• Date Published: May 2006
• Length: 33 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This report presents the findings and recommendations made by internal review teams of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) Latent Print Unit processes to improve current practices.

Abstract

The internal review teams generated many valuable recommendations for improving the quality and performance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) latent print examinations with a few having a greater immediate impact. These are revisions in the patent print training program, revisions to evidence-acceptance policies, detailed revisions to "standard operating procedures" (SOPs) and casework documentation policies and procedures, revisions to SOPs regarding the decisionmaking process when determining the comparative value of a latent prints, and more stringent verification policies and procedures. Some of the recommendations included: (1) more detail and more comprehensive theoretical training on the basic biology of latent prints and the ACE-V methodology; (2) revision of the evidence-acceptance policies in order to address the limitations of the scientific discipline; (3) more detail needed within the SOP and casework documentation policies; (4) revision of casework examination procedures in order for decisions about latent prints of value be made during the analysis phase prior to the comparison phase; and (5) the incorporation of more stringent verification practices to include blind verification and more complete technical and administrative review practices, minimizing confirmation bias. The FBI Laboratory's review of its Latent Print Units (LPUs) and their practices was a healthy and beneficial process. The findings were adopted readily and quality practices were enhanced immediately. Due to quality assurance practices and the desire to improve its operations, the FBI Laboratory took the time to conduct a review of the FBI's Latent Print Unit processes. Eight internal latent print review teams were created. Appendix