Although Galton was not the first to propose the use of fingerprints for identification (Sir William Herschel had used them in India for this purpose) he was the first to place their study on a scientific basis and so lay the groundwork for their use in criminal cases. He was able to collect a large sample of prints through his Anthropological laboratories, eventually … [Read more...] about Francis Galton and Fingerprints
fingerprints
Sticky fingers: developing a materials science approach to forensics
From the bluebird painting propped against her office wall and the deer she mentions seeing outside her office window, Linda Lewis might be mistaken for a wildlife biologist at first glance. But rather than trailing animal tracks, Lewis, a researcher at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is more interested in marks left behind by humans... She's a … [Read more...] about Sticky fingers: developing a materials science approach to forensics
Fingerprints: Principles and Classification
Not only do each and every one of us have very individual traits and looks but we have one thing that makes us completely unique and cannot be altered: these are our fingerprints. Fingerprints - and their individuality - are one of the most important pieces of evidence that can be presented in the prosecuting of any crime. Classifying Fingerprints Back in 1892 … [Read more...] about Fingerprints: Principles and Classification
ACE-V Method: the Fingerprint Analysis Process
Fingerprint examiners use the ACE-V (analysis, comparison, evaluation and verification) method to reach a determination on each print. Analysis involves assessing a print to determine if it can be used for a comparison. If the print is not suitable for comparison because of inadequate quality or quantity of features, the examination ends and the print is reported as not … [Read more...] about ACE-V Method: the Fingerprint Analysis Process
FBI – Biometric Center of Excellence
The Science and Technology Branch (STB) created the Biometric Center of Excellence (BCOE) in 2007 to support its overall biometrics mission and fully coordinate its various biometric programs and activities. The BCOE is the central program for advancing biometric capabilities for integration into operations. The BCOE is strengthening criminal investigations and enhancing … [Read more...] about FBI – Biometric Center of Excellence