Work of the Serious Crimes Unit (From International Forensic Symposium on Latent Prints -- Proceedings, 1987, Quantico, Virginia, P 91-99, -- See NCJ-113506)

• NCJ Number: 113518
• Author(s): K E Creer; J S Brennan
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: Superintendent of Documents, GPO; National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: For microfiche, see NCJ-113506.

Annotation

This presentation describes the wide variety of techniques used by the London Metropolitan Forensic Science Laboratory's Serious Crimes Unit (SCU) to detect latent fingerprints in the laboratory and at the crime scene.

Abstract

The SCU is composed of two photographers, two scientists, and two fingerprint officers. The article discusses the SCU's use of lasers and a mercury vapor lamp in detecting fingerprints and other forensic material. Enhancement methods examined include powdering, ninhydrin, zinc chloride, and physical developer. Special attention is given to detecting fingerprints on polyethylene carrier bags and the SCU's range of Super Glue cabinets. Print detection on adhesive tape, smoke damaged items, and fingerprints in blood are also discussed. Two examples involving homicides illustrate the SCU's crime scene techniques. Photographs and 14 references.