Question

How are fingerprints identified and collected at the crime scene?

Answer 1

It is usually easy to find visible and plastic prints at a crime scene. These fingerprints are visible to the naked eye, after all. Latent prints provide more of a challenge, but new technologies are making it easier to discover these prints at crime scenes. A device called the Reflected Ultraviolet Imaging System (RUVIS) aims UV light at areas where fingerprints may be. If a latent fingerprint exists, it will reflect UV light.

Fingerprint powders are also used to find fingerprints at a crime scene. The powders come in a range of colors and compositions, allowing forensic scientists to choose the best one for each surface.

Answer 2

One of the most common methods for discovering and collecting latent fingerprints is by dusting a smooth or nonporous surface with fingerprint powder (black granular, aluminum flake, black magnetic, etc.). If any prints appear, they are photographed as mentioned above and then lifted from the surface with clear adhesive tape. The lifting tape is then placed on a latent lift card to preserve the print.