100% found this document useful (2 votes)
2K views81 pages

Personal Identification: Unit-1

The document discusses the history and value of fingerprints in identification. It covers how fingerprints are formed and their use in ancient times in places like China, Babylon and Mexico. The document also discusses the early publications on fingerprints in the 17th century and their use in various countries throughout history.

Uploaded by

Rico T. Musong
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOC, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
100% found this document useful (2 votes)
2K views81 pages

Personal Identification: Unit-1

The document discusses the history and value of fingerprints in identification. It covers how fingerprints are formed and their use in ancient times in places like China, Babylon and Mexico. The document also discusses the early publications on fingerprints in the 17th century and their use in various countries throughout history.

Uploaded by

Rico T. Musong
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOC, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 81

PERSONAL

What to Expect?
IDENTIFICATION
COURSE TITLE: PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION AND TECHNIQUES
COURSE CODE: Forensic-2
CREDIT UNITS: 3
COURSE DESCRIPTION: The course covers the fundamental study of ancient and modern methods of
personal identification with emphasis on Dactyloscopy, Orthodontology and Palmistry, which embraces
the identification and comparison of fingerprint patterns and ridge characteristics; the scientific method of
recognition, development and preservation of latent prints; and the recording and classifying of
fingerprints that include the Henry System, FBI extension and NBI modification.

Prepared by: RICO T. MUSONG, RC.,MSCRIM (CAR)

Part I - Content Updates

UNIT- 1 VALUE OF FINGERPRINTS: AN OVERVIEW


INTRODUCTION:
One of the most valuable clues that are left at the crime scene is physical evidence. Establishing
the identity of a suspect or the victim is one of the purposes of physical evidence. One of the most positive
means of identifying people is through fingerprints. It is form on a person before birth and remained
unchanged throughout a lifetime. Except for a few exceptions, everyone has a fingerprint. Fingerprints are
markings that are left on a surface by a human hand and have the same makings as the skin of the finger
which is unique in every person.
Unless the hands are covered with gloves or other forms of protection before committing an
offense, criminals cannot avoid leaving clues in the crime scene in the form of fingerprints.
Locating and preserving fingerprints is one of the most important responsibilities of crime scene
specialist when processing the crime scene. Fingerprints that are lifted in the crime scene when process
will establish the identity of the perpetrator and link him/her to the crime.
Although, we take it for granted, fingerprints are essential to criminal investigation. In order to fully
understand the importance of fingerprints as a means of identifying person, it is necessary to have a basic
understanding about fingerprint identification.

I. NATURE OF FINGERPRINTS

CONCEPT:

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 1


A FINGERPRINT is a composite of the ridge outlines which appears on the skin surface of the
bulbs on the inside of the end of joints of the fingers and thumbs.

The ridges appearing in a fingerprint are commonly referred to as papillary or frictional ridges. The
ridges have a definite contour and appear in definite individual details by which positive identification can
be made.

How the ridges are formed?

Ridge – literally, the top of long hill.

Ducts – these are little pockets underneath the skin where oils or sweats are carried by small holes
to the surface of the skin.

Ridge Destruction:

Creases – little white lines that are found on a fingerprint that look like sears (burn/blister). These
are not permanent, and will not show any turning or “puckering.”
Skin conditions such as warts and blisters of temporary impairments caused by certain
occupations, e.g. bricklayers, carpenters, have no permanent effect and the individual characteristics revert
to their natural alignment once the temporary skin condition has been corrected.

II. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF FINGERPRINTS

A. Ancient Records Concerning the Use of Finger and Palm Prints:

On the face of a cliff in NOVA SCOTIA, there has been found prehistoric Indian picture writing of a
hand with crudely marked ridge patterns.

Scholars refer to the impression of fingerprints on clay tablets recoding business transactions in
ancient Babylon and clay seals of ancient Chinese origin bearing thumbprints. Some of these seals can be
seen in the SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, WASHINGTON, D.C. Chinese documents identified with the
Tang Dynasty (618-907) refer to fingerprint being impressed upon business contracts. It is conjectural as
to what extent these earlier instances of fingerprinting were intended for actual identification of the persons
impressing the prints. History shows that Emperor Te In Shi was the first on to use fingerprint in China.

In the Bible, Apostle Paul concludes in one of his epistles with the words, “The Salvation of Paul
with my own hand, which is the token in every epistle, so I write.” Some have inferred from these words that
Paul used his finger impressions as a distinctive signature.

In Persia, 14th century, various government papers were reportedly impressed with fingerprints, and
a government official who was also a physician made the observation that no fingerprints of two persons
were exactly alike.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 2


In Holland and China, identification of individuals was by means of branding, tattooing, mutilation,
and also manifested by wearing clothes of different designs.

In Old Mexico, the Aztecs impressed their hands accidentally or intentionally on the molded and
still soft clays of their hand-made idols to serve as their trade marks. The authorities stamped their hands
on the death warrants for the men and women who offered their lives to sacrifice for their idol-gods.
In France, numerous rock carvings and paintings featuring hand designs and fingerprints have
been found on the granite wall slabs in the Neolithic burial passage of the L’lle de Gavr’nis. Other
specimens were also found in the Spanish Pyrunees caverns, the numerous digital relics left by Indiana at
Keuimkooji Lake in cliff dwellings in Nova Scotia, in the Balearic Islands, Australis, New England coasts
and in Africa.

In Babylonia, the first use of fingerprints for personal identification originated when Babylonian
Magistrates ordered their officers in making arrests and property confiscation to secure the defendants’
fingerprints.

Kom Ombo Plain, on the east bank of river Nile, Egypt, lump of hundred much found in Sebekian
deposit which shows a portion of an adult palm during 12,000 B.C.

In Judea, Paul, the Apostle, used his own fingerprints to sign his letters (II Thessalonians 3:17 – “I,
Paul, greet you with my own hand. This is the mark in every letter. Thus I write.”). Other significant
quotations are found in Job 37:7 – “He sealeth up the hand of all men, that every one may know his works.”
Revelations 13:16 – “It will cause all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free and
the bond, to have mark on their right hand or on foreheads.”

In Jerusalem, fingerprint relics were found in clay lumps during the 4 th and 5th centuries of the
Christian Era. The excavation of Palestine by the late Dr. Bade yielded fragments of such specimens
(fingerprints).

In China, fingerprint is called “Hua Chi”. The value of fingerprints for purposes of identification was
found on a Chinese clay seal made not later than the 3 rd century B.C.

During the Tang Dynasty, fingerprints were used in connection with the preparation of legal
documents. Kia Yung-yen, an author during this time stated that, “Wooden tablets were engraved with the
full terms of the contract, and notches were cut in the sides where they were identical so that the tablets
could later be matched or tallied, thus proving them genuine.”

The code of domestic relations as described in the Chinese Law Book of Yang Hwui states: “To
divorce a wife, the husband must write a bill of divorcement and state the reasons or grounds that are due
for action, and then impress his palmprint thereon.” For contracts, fingerprints were also used as
signatures of those who were illiterates, who could neither read nor write. This was under the subject of
“Land Tenure.”

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 3


Early in the 12th century, in the novel, “The Story of the River Bank,” fingerprinting found itself
already in the criminal procedure of China; and in the 16 th century, a custom prevailed in connection with
the sale of children.

In Japan, deeds, dotes, and certificates to be used as proofs were sealed by the mark of the hand
(Palm-print) called “Tegata.” In the treatment of criminals, the imprint of the thumb (bo-in or bo-an) was
taken. The criminal signed only by thumb-print with regard to his sentence and it was considered as an
inferior sort of signature.

In Constantinople, in a treaty of ratification, the sultan soaked his hand in a sheep’s blood and
impressed it on the document as his seal.

In England, Thomas Bewick, an English engraver, author, and naturalist engraved the patterns of
his own fingers on every wood-work he had finished to serve as his mark so as to establish its
genuineness.

B. Early Publication Concerning Fingerprints

1684-Nehemiah Grew published a report which was read before the royal society of London,
England. He described the ridges and pores of the hands and feet.

1685-Godard Bidloo published a treaty describing sweat pores and ridges.

1685-Midle wrote a book, “Human Anatomy,” in which he included a drawing of the thumb print
showing the ridge configuration of the whorl pattern.
1686-Professor Marcello Malpighi, a professor of anatomy at the University of Bologna noted in his
treatise; ridges, spirals and loops in fingerprints. He made no mention of their value as a tool for individual
identification. A layer of the skin was named after him; “ Malpighi” layer, which is approximately 1.8 mm
thick. An Italian anatomist, who published his work “De Externo Tactus Organo” depicting the construction
of the layer of the human skin. (known as the GRANDFATHER OF DACTYLOSCOPY according to Dr.
Edmond Locard – “Father of Poroscopy”), commented in his writings on elevated ridges on the fingertips
and alluded to diverse figures on palmar surfaces. He was also noted for the discovery of the inner and
outer structure of the skin: *Dermis-inner layer & *Epidermis-outer layer

1751-Hintzo wrote on the ridge formation, but dealt with the subject from the viewpoint of anatomy
rather than identification.

1764-Albinus followed along the same lines as Hintzo had written.

1788-J.C.A. Mayer stated in his book (Anatomische Kupfertafein Nebst Dazu Geharigen) that
although the arrangement of the skin ridges is never duplicated in two persons, nevertheless, the
similarities are closer among some individuals. He was the first to state that the prints of two different
persons are never alike.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 4


1823-Johannes Evangelist Purkinje, (FATHER OF DACTYLOCOSPY) a Czechoslovakian
professor of anatomy at the University of Breslau, published a thesis in Latin ( Commentio de Examine
Physiogico Organi Visus Et systematis Cutansi – A Commentary of the Physiological Examination of the
Organ of Vision and the Coetaneous System: Dec. 22, 1823, Breslau, Germany) describing the ridges,
giving them names and established certain rules for classification (nine groups). He involves vague
differentiation of fingerprints or uses them for identification.

1856-Herman Welcker took the prints of his own palm. In 1897, (forty one years later) he printed
the same palm to prove that the prints do not change. (Principle of Permanency).

1883-Kollman, an anthropologist who wrote his book on ridges and pores. He did not associate
fingerprints with identification.

C. Fingerprints as Method of Identification

1858-Sir William J. Herschel (FATHER OF CHIROSCOPY), in Hooghly, district of Bengal, India, he


used fingerprints in India to prevent fraudulent collection of army pay account and for identification of other
documents.
He printed the palms of natives in order to avoid impersonation among laborers. Prints of the
entire palms were used instead of signatures. The first person Herschel printed appears to have been one
RAJYADHAR KONAI. He also establishes the principle “Principle of Persistency” of the Papillary Friction
ridges.

1880-Dr. Henry Faulds, an English (Scottish) doctor stationed in Tokyo, Japan, wrote a letter to the
English publication, “NATURE” – “On the Skin Furrows of the Hand”, (dtd Oct. 28, 1880) on the practical
use of fingerprints for the identification of criminals. He recommended the use of a thin film of printers ink
as a transfer medium and is generally used today.

1880-Sir Francis Galton, a noted British anthropologist and a cousin of scientist Charles Darwin
began observation which led to the publication in 1882 of his book “Fingerprints.” Galton’s studies
established the individuality of classifying fingerprint patterns.

1882-Gilbert Thompson, a U.S. geological surveyor in charge of a field project in New Mexico used
his own fingerprints in commissary orders to prevent forgery.
Isaiah West Taber – A photographer in San Francisco advocated the use of the system for the
registration of the immigrant Chinese.

1883-An episode in Mark Twain’s life on the Mississippi relates to the identification of a murderer
by his thumbprint.

Twain (Samuel L. Clemens) further developed his theme. Eleven (11) years later, he causes the
publication of “Puddin Head Wilson”, a novel based on dramatic fingerprint identification demonstrated
during a court trial. His story pointed out the infallibility of fingerprint identification.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 5


1888-Sir Edward Richard Henry, succeeded Sir William J. Herschel at his post in India. He
became interested in fingerprints and devised a classification of his own and published his work in book
form and titled it “Classification and Uses of Fingerprints.”

1889-Sir Richard Henry at Dove, England read a paper detailing his system before the British
association for Advancement of Science.

1891-Juan Vucetich, an Argentinean police official, installed fingerprints files as an official means
of criminal identification; based his system of the pattern typed by Sir Francis Galton; and he also claimed
the first official criminal identification by means of fingerprints left at the scene of crime.

In 1892, at La Piata, Argentina, a woman named Rojas who had murdered her two sons and had
cut her own throat, though not fatal, blamed the attack on a neighbor. Bloody fingerprints on a door post
were identified by Vucetich as those of the woman herself which led to her confession.

1892-Sir Francis Galton, an English Biologist, wrote his first textbook. He devised a practical
system of classification and filing.

1894-Sir Francis Galton’s report on fingerprint as a method of identification, along with his system,
was read at Asquith Committee of London, England. His system was officially adopted on February 12,
1894.

1900-Alphonse Bertillon’s system of body measurement had by this time spread throughout the
world.

1901-Sir Edward Richard Henry was appointed assistant commissioner at Scotland Yard. His
system was so applicable that Henry emerged as the “Father of Fingerprints,” at least as the first man to
successfully apply fingerprints for identification.

1901-marked the official introduction of fingerprinting for criminal identification in England and
Wales.

The system employed was developed from Galton’s observation and devised by Edward Richard
Henry, the Inspector-General of Police in Bengal, India. He later became commissioner of London’s
Metropolitan Police.

1914-Fingerprints were officially adopted in France, replacing Bertillonage.

D. Official Use of fingerprint in the United States of America

1882-Gilbert Thompson of the Us Geodetic survey used thumb print for camp orders on an
expedition to New Mexico. This was not official but it was proven useful (the record was dated Aug. 8,
1882).

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 6


1902-Sir Henry P. Forest, chief Medical examiner of New York Civil Service Commission and an
American preacher in fingerprint science in the US for the New York Civil Service commission to prevent
applicants from having better-qualified persons to take the test for them.

The New York Civil Service Commission, on Dec. 19, 1902 required all civil service applicants to
be fingerprinted. Dr. Henry P. Forest, put the system into practice.

1903-New York State Prison in Albany claims the first practical, systematic use of fingerprints in
the US to identify criminals.

Captain James Parke of the institution installed the identification system where the fingerprints of
prisoners were taken and classified and the fingerprint system was officially adopted in June of the year.

Today, New York State uses the American system that is similar to the Henry System and
represents the system initiated by Capt. Parke in 1903.

1904-Maj. R. Mccloughry, the warden of the Federal Penitentiary of Leavenworth when the office of
the Atty. General of the U.S. granted permission to establish a fingerprint bureau therein. It was the first
national government use of fingerprints.

Mary K. Holland – the first American Instructress in Dactyloscopy.


1924-The Identification Division of the FBI was established after J. Edgar Hoover was appointed
Director.

E. Evolution of Fingerprint

1903-Fingerprints identification was adopted in the following penitentiaries:


A. Singing Sing
B. Napanoch
C. Auborn
D. Clinton

1904-John Kenneth Ferrer (Perrier) of the Fingerprint Branch of the New Scotland Yard, attended
the St. Louis Missouri Worlds Fair. He had been assigned to guard the British Crown Jewels. American
police officials became interested in fingerprint through him and he became their instructor.

1904-The City of St. Louis Missouri, became the first city to adopt fingerprint. The police
department officials adopted the system on October 29, 1904.

1905-Fingerpritning was officially adopted by the U.S. Army. It was known as the first military use
of fingerprint.

1907-Fingerprinting was officially adopted by the U.S. Navy (January 11, 1907).

1908-Fingerprinting was officially adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 7


1910-Frederick A. Brayley published what appears to be the first American book in fingerprints.

1911-The State of Illinois, made the first criminal conviction based solely upon fingerprint evidence.
It was known as the first judicial ruling on such evidence, (People vs Jennings, 252 Illinois 543-96 NE 1007,
43 LRA (NS) 1206 for 1991).

1915-The International Association for Criminal Identification was founded. The word “criminal”
was later dropped from the Association’s name. It is the first organized body of professional identification
experts.

1916-The Institution of Applied Science established at Chicago, Illinois was the first school to teach
fingerprint identification (June 16, 1916).
1916-Frederick Kuhne published a book entitled “The Fingerprint Instructor,” which probably the
first authoritative book in fingerprint to be circulated in the U.S. Munn and Co., served as the publisher.
1919-Marked the publication of “Fingerprint and Identification Magazine” (Chicago). The first
monthly journal devoted exclusively to fingerprint science, (July 1919).
1920-The Exceptional Arch, a new pattern, was adapted to Henry’s system by American experts.
The pattern was added after the study made by the assembly members at annual convention of the
International Association for Identification in 1920.
1922-Haken Jersengen, the sub-director of police in Copenhagen, Denmark introduced first a long
distance identification to U.S. at a police conference here. The method was adopted and published in a
magazine entitled “Publications” of the International Police Conference, (New York City Police Department,
1932).
1924-The book entitled “Single Fingerprint System” by T.K. Larson, was first published in U.S.,
(Berkley, Police Monograph Series) D. Application and Co., New York City.
1924-The First National Bureau of Identification was created by the act of Congress. The bureau
was established within the U.S. DOJ (Washington DC).
1925-Harry J. Myers II installed the first official fact fingerprint system for infants in Jewish
Maternity Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.
1925-The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania used compulsory foot and fingerprinting of new born
infants and mothers which was enacted into law by Act of General Assembly as approved on April 20,
1925.
1932-The International Exchange of Fingerprint date was initiated with a number of other nations
on February 15, 1932.
1933-The Bureau of Identification, U.S. Department of Justice, adopted the single fingerprint
identification system. The first national use of single print for identification purposes for certain crimes only,
(Feb. 1933).
1933-Latent fingerprints section, for making technical examination of latent prints or have inked
prints on an individual basis was instituted on November 10, 1933. The Civil Identification on Section was
established
1937-The Institute of Applied Science installed Photographic and Firearms Identification (Forensic
Ballistics) laboratories. The institute was the first private school in U.S. which installed laboratories for
instructional purposes only.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 8


1938-A book by Harry J. Myers II, “History of Identification of fingerprints in U.S.” was published in
Fingerprint and Identification Magazine (Chicago, Illinois, Vol. 20, no. 4, Oct. 1938).
1946-the 100th millionth fingerprint card was received in the identification division of the FBI. The
total grew to 152 million in May 11, 1959.
1967-“Minutiae” was initiated by the FBI, a computerized scanning equipment to read and record
fingerprint identifying characteristics.

1972-the prototype automatic fingerprint reader was delivered.

1973-implementation of the first phase of the automated Identification System (AIS-1), which was
to establish the database consisting of the name, description, and criminal record of all first offenders with
birthdates of 1956.

1978-Journal of Forensic Science – reported that certain properties of perspiration and body oils
contained in latent print residue will luminesce without pre-treatment and to a degree that photographs
could be taken when activated by continuous Argon-ION Laser. Hence, the FBI’s Latent Print Detection
System was put into use.

1979-AIS-2 replaced AIS-1. This phase involved the automated searching by name and other
descriptor information of incoming fingerprint cards against the database.

1979 (Oct. 17, 1979)-A latent fingerprint was developed and lifted from the hand of a victim in
Miami, Florida murder resulting in identifying the suspect. This was the first known case where a fingerprint
from a human skin was used in the identification, prosecution and conviction of a perpetrator of a crime.

1982-Missing Children Act was signed into law which requires the Attorney General to acquire,
collect, classify, and preserve any information which would assist in the location of any missing person
(including an unemancipated person as defined by the laws of the place of residence of such person) or
assist in the identification of any deceased individual who have not been identified.

1983-Completion of the conversion of the FBI criminal fingerpint searching from manual to
automated searching. Also, AIS records became available by mail upon request of the National Crime
Information Center’s (NCIC’s) interstate identification index (III) – an interstate record exchange.

1984-AIS records became available “ON-LINE” through the NCIC program. Records from the
NCIC and AIS, and participating state and local telecommunication networks became available w/in
seconds to authorized criminal justice agencies.

1985 (Jan. 2) – a contract was awarded for building the final phase of the Identification Division
Automated System (IDAS).
1989-IDAS was implemented. Its features are: integrated document transport equipment; on-line
automated technical fingerprint search; and simplified processing flow. All, for expeditious response time of
fingerprint cards.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 9


E. Fingerprints in the Philippines

 1819- fingerprint has been used in the Philippines by Chinese traders.

 1900-Mr. Robert Jones was the first to teach fingerprints in the Philippines in the Phil.
Constabulary.

 1918-The Bureau of Prisons records show that carpetas (commitment and conviction records)
already bear fingerprints.

 Under the management of Lt. Asa N. Darby during the American occupation in the Philippines, a
modern and complete fingerprint file has been established for the Philippine commonwealth.

 1937-The first Filipino fingerprint technician employed by the Phil. Constabulary was Mr. Generoso
Reyes.

 Capt. Thomas Dugan of New York City Police Department and Mr. Flaviano C. Gurrero of the
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) gave the first examinations in fingerprints in 1927 and
Agustin Patricio of the Philippines top the Examination

 1933-The first conviction based on fingerprints was handed by the Supreme Court of the Phil. in
the case People vs. Medina and this case is considered the leading judicial decision in the
Philippine jurisprudence concerning fingerprinting (December 23).

 The science of fingerprinting was first offered as a subject in the Philippines through the effort of
the Plaridel Educational Institution.

 Isabela Bernales- first Filifina Fingerprint Technician.

 Lucila Lalu – the first Filipina Chop-chop lady who was identified through fingerprint.

 Plaridel Education Institute (PEI) now known as Phil. College of Criminology, first government
recognized school to teach the Science of Fingerprint and other Police Sciences.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 10


UNIT-2 SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF FRICTION SKIN IDENTIFICATION
A. Purpose of the Study of Fingerprint - To give basic knowledge of fingerprint, its
use and application.

FINGERPRINT defined

 Fingerprint is an impression of the friction ridge of all or any part of the finger.

THREE (3) DISTINCT BONES OF FINGER

 FIST JOINT - Is called PHALANGE – It is the skeletal finger covered with


friction skin.
 Distal/TERMINAL PHALANGE –The particular joint covered with friction skin
having all the different types of pattern and located near the tip of the finger.
 Medial/MIDDLE PHALANGE – The next and above the basal bone.
 BASAL OR PROXIMAL – Located at the base of the finger nearest the palm.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 11


HOW FINGERPRINTS PRODUCED

 FRICTION SKIN

 SWEAT PORES – Tiny opening across the ridge.


 SWEAT DUCT – It is a passage way towards to sweat pores.
 SWEAT GLANDS – Producing the sweat.

TENETS OF FRICTION SKIN IDENTIFICATION

 Unique

 Friction skin is unique. All areas of friction skin are totally individual. When
sufficient detail is present, it can be individualized. In other words, when
someone is identified as the donor of a print, it establishes that person as the
only person in the world who could have that print.

 Permanent

 Friction skin is permanent. Friction skin is formed during fetal life. The location,
appearance and relationships of the features remain unchanged throughout a
person’s lifetime, with the exception of permanent damage such as injuries that
result in permanent scars.
 The fact that friction skin can be individualized and does not change makes
friction skin one of the best forms of personal identification available.

THE NATURE OF FRICTION SKIN

 Located along the undersides of the fingers, palms, toes, and soles appear
corrugated skin structure known to the biologist as volar skin; to the fingerprint
examiner, it is known as friction skin; and to the public, it’s commonly referred to
as just, fingerprints. Friction skin is made up of elevated areas called ridges
with depressions between the ridges known as furrows.

Two Component Parts of the Friction Skin:

 RIDGES – are the tiny elevation or hill-like structures found on the Epidermis of
the skin containing sweat pores. Through these sweat ducts emitted the greasy
substance from the sweat glands. These perspirations are the ones that forms
the ridge characteristics on any smooth objects. It may touch. The ridges appear
as black lines with tiny white dots Called “PORES “ in an inked finger
impression.
 FURROWS – are the canals or depression found between the ridges. They
appear as white lines in an inked finger impression.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 12


Two Main Layers of the Skin:

 Outer scarf or Epidermis


 Inner Scarf or Dermis

 The epidermis is made up of several smaller layers. The innermost layer of the
epidermis is the generating layer. New cells are created in the generating layer.
The outer layer of the epidermis is made up of mostly dead cells.
 The dermis is covered with double rows of peg-like formations called papillae.
Each of these double rows appears under one ridge.

Anatomy of Fingerprints

Two Main layers of the Epidermis Consist of:


 Stratum corneum
 Stratum Mucosum
 The stratum corneum covers the surface of the ridges on fingers and toes. The
stratum mucosum on the other hands, is just beneath the covering surface. The
stratum mucosum is folded so as to form ridges which correspond to the surface
ridges. Generally, no permanent defacing results when the stratum corneum is
bruised or slightly cut. If, however a more Serious injury is inflicted, thereby
damaging the stratum mucosum, a permanent scar will appear.

Five(5) Sub-Division of the Stratum Corneum are as follows:

 Corneous layer – the outermost layer of the epidermis consisting of dead and
desquamating cells.
 Transparent layer – is a thin, clear layer of dead skin cells in the epidermis
named for its translucent appearance under a microscope.
 Malphigian layer – the Malpighian layer of the skin is a term that is generally
defined as both the stratum basal and stratum spinosum as a unit, although it is
occasionally defined as the stratum basale specifically.
 Granular layer – a thin layer of cells in the epidermis.
 Generating layer or Stratum Germinativum – The stratum basale is a
continous layer of cells. It is often described as one cell thick, though it may in
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 13
fact be two or three cells thick in glabrous (hairless) skin and hyperproliferative
epidermis (from a skin disease). The stratum basale is primarily made up of
basale keratinocyte cells, which can be considered the stem cell of the
epidermis.

 Each friction ridge is made up of a series of ridge units joined together to form
the ridge. Each ridge unit contains one sweat gland one pore. A close
examination of a friction ridge reveals that each ridge is not merely a line, but has
a unique structure and appearance. Even the pores appearing along the tops of
the ridges have random placement resulting in unique arrangements and
appearance on the ridge.

Anatomy of Fingerprints

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 14


.
Structure of friction ridge skin
The ridges and furrows on the surface of the friction ridge skin are firmly rooted in the dermis by
primary ridges (under-the-surface ridges) and secondary ridges (under the valleys). Figure illustrates the
structure of friction ridge skin. The primary and secondary ridges are interlocked with the dermis to provide
support and strength to the friction ridge skin. Additionally, sweat glands extend from the primary ridges
and are anchored in the dermis or hypodermis.

Layers of the epidermis


RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 15
The Figure is a color-coded illustration of the five layers of keratinocytes in the friction ridge skin epidermis: stratum
basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum, and stratum corneum. There is an informal layer, the suprabasal
layer, between the stratum basale and the stratum spinosum in the primary ridges.

B. Fundamental Principles of Fingerprints (3 dogmatic Principles)

1. First Principle: (Individuality) A fingerprint is an individual


characteristic; no two fingers have yet been found to posses
identical ridge characteristics.

 Early fingerprint experts consistently referred to Galton's calculation, showing the


possible existence of 64 billion different fingerprints. Not only is this principle
supported by theoretical calculations, but just as importantly, it is verified by the
millions of individuals who have had their prints classified over the past 90 years
—no two have yet been found to be identical even twins are never found to be
identical to Each other. (West Case)

2. Second Principle: A fingerprint will remain unchanged during an


individual's lifetime. (Permanency/Constancy/Perennial/Immutable)

 This states that the papillary ridges are immutable, perennial and individual from
the third months of the embryonic while the child is still at the mother’s womb and
it will never change until decomposition sets in after death.
 The configuration and details of individual ridges remain constant and
unchanging till after the final decomposition of the body.
 Fingerprints result from friction skin ridges found on the palm side of the fingers
and thumbs. Similar friction skin ridges are also be found on the surface of the
palms and the soles of the feet. These skin surfaces have been designed by
nature to provide our bodies with a firmer grasp and a resistance to slippage.
 Each skin ridge contains rows of pores which are connected to sweat glands. It is
through these pores that perspiration is released and deposited on the surface of
the skin. Once a finger touches a surface, perspiration and body oils are
transferred onto that surface, thereby leaving an impression of the finger's ridge
pattern—a fingerprint. Prints deposited in this manner are invisible to the eye and
are commonly referred to as latent or hidden fingerprints. Such prints must be
developed before use in an investigation.
 Although it is impossible to change one's fingerprints, there has been no lack of
effort on the part of some criminals to change or remove them. To remove or
change any part of a fingerprint, an injury must reach deeply enough into the skin
to damage the dermal papillae. However, for this to happen, such a wound would
have to penetrate 1 to 2 millimeters beneath the skin's surface. Indeed, efforts
at intentionally scarring the skin can only be self-defeating, for it would be totally
impossible to obliterate all the ridges on the hand. In most situations, an attempt
to alter one’s fingerprints results in a scarring which actually makes the
fingerprints easier to identify.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 16


 Perhaps the most publicized attempt at removal of fingerprints was conducted by
the notorious gangster John Dillinger. He attempted to destroy his own
fingerprints by applying a corrosive acid to them. Prints taken at the morgue after
Dillinger was shot to death were compared with fingerprints recorded at the time
of a previous arrest. As seen below, the prints still matched!

3. Third Principle: (Infallibility) Fingerprints have general ridge patterns


that permit them to be systematically classified.

 That fingerprint is a reliable means of personal identification and all courts accept
and adopt fingerprint as a means of personal identification.
 All fingerprints are divided into three classes on the basis of their general pattern:
loops, whorls, and arches. Sixty to sixty-five percent (60-65%) of the
population has loops, thirty to thirty-five percent (30-35%) has whorls, and about
five percent (5%) has arches. These three classes form the basis of the
classification system presently in use.
 The pattern area of a loop surrounded by two diverging ridges is known as type
lines. The ridge point nearest the type-line divergence is known as a delta. A
fingerprint delta resembles the silt formation that builds up as a river flows into
the entrance of a lake. The core, as the name suggests, is the approximate
center of the pattern where ridges curve around or circle.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 17


C. Uses of Fingerprints:

Some of the uses of fingerprinting include:

1. Identification of criminals whose fingerprints are found at the scene of the


crime;
2. Identification of fugitive through a comparison of fingerprints;
3. Assistance to prosecutors in presenting their cases in the light of defendants’
previous records;
4. Imposition of more equitable sentence by the courts;
5. Furnishing identification data to probation and parole officers and to parole
boards for their enlightenment in decision making;
6. Exchanging of criminal-identifying information with identification bureaus of
foreign countries in cases of mutual interest;
7. Means of personal identification;
8. Recognition by the government of honored dead;
9. Identification of unknown deceased;
10. Prevention of hospital mistakes in the identification of infants;
11. Identification of persons suffering from amnesia where fingerprints are on file;
12. Identification of missing person;
13. Personal identification of victims of disaster works;
14. Identification of unconscious persons; and
15. Licensing procedures for automobile, firearms, aircraft and other equipment.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 18


UNIT-3 LEGAL ASPECTS OF FINGERPRINTING
A. Legality of Fingerprinting:

In 1911, an Illinois court, in the case of the People v. Jennings (252 Ill. 534, 96NE 1077 (1911) )
pass upon the admissibility of fingerprint evidence.

In that case, fingerprint evidence was admitted as a means of identification may give their opinions
as to whether the fingerprints found at the scene of the crime correspond with those of the accused. The
court’s conclusion were based on a comparison of the photographs of such prints with the impressions
made by the accused, there being no question as to the accuracy or authenticity of the photographs. It was
stated that the weight to be given to the testimony of experts in the fingerprint identification is a question for
the jury.

Following the Illinois case was one in New Jersey, State V. Cerciello, in which fingerprint evidence
was permitted to be introduced.

In the Cerciello Case, the defendant argued that it was an error to allow the testimony by experts
explaining the comparison of fingerprints obtained from the defendant voluntarily with those fingerprints
found upon a hatchet near the body of the deceased when the body was discovered. The New Jersey
Court of Errors and Appeals held, “in principle, its admission as legal evidence is based upon the theory
that the evolution in practical affairs of life, whereby the progressive and scientific tenderness of the age are
manifested in every other department of human endeavor, cannot be ignored in legal procedure.

In the case of State Vs. Conners (87 N.T.L. 419, 94 Atl. 812 (1915) ) it was held competent to show
by a photograph the fingerprints upon the balcony post of a house entered, without producing that post in
court, and to show by expert testimony hat the fingerprints found on the post were similar to the fingerprints
of the defendant.

In the case of Lamble Vs. State (Lamble V. State, 96 N. T. L. 231; 114 ATL. (N.J.) 346 (1921) )
which involved the discovery of fingerprints on the door of an automobile, the court was of the opinion that it
was not necessary to produce the door as an evidence. The court stated that a photograph of the
fingerprints noted on the door should be sufficient along with the identification of the fingerprints by an
expert to show these of the defendant. The court referred the case of States V. Conners (Supra).

In the case of Commonwealth V. Albright, (101 Pa. Sup. C.L. 317 (1931) ) a fingerprint expert
testified that the fingerprint on a piece of glass, establish to be from a pane in a door that had been broken
to effect entrance to the house was the same as the impression of the defendant’s left index finger and he
explained in detail the points of identity which led him to that judgment. The court stated, “it is well settled
that the papillary lines and marks on the fingers of every man, woman and child possess an individual
character different from those of any person and that the chances that the fingerprints of two different
persons may be identical are infinitesimally remote.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 19


In a California case, People v. Coral (224 cal. 2d300 (1964( ), the court stated, “it is completely
settled law that fingerprints are the strongest evidence of the identity of a person.” This Doctrine was
reasserted in another California case, People V. Riser (47 cal. 2d566 (1956) ) in which the court stated,
“fingerprint evidence is the strongest evidence of identity and is ordinarily sufficient alone to identify the
defendant.”

The US Supreme Court in the case of Schmerber V. California (Schmerber v. California, 384 us,
757, 763 764 (1966) ), held that the introduction into evidence of fingerprint impressions taken without
consent of the defendant was not an infringement of the constitutional privilege against self incrimination.
The high court held that it is constitutional to obtain real or physical evidence even if the suspect is
compelled to give blood in a hospital environment, submit to fingerprinting, photographing or measurement,
write or speak for identification, appears in court, stand or walk, assume a stance or make a particular
gesture, put on a cloth that fits him, or exhibit his body as evidence when it is material. The Schmerber
case points out the fact that the privilege against self-incrimination is related primarily to “TESTIMONIAL
COMPULSION”.
In the Philippines, several decided cases could be cited where fingerprint evidence was admitted,
considered and appreciated by the appellate courts with even lesser number of ridge similarities. In the
BILANGAWA Vs. AMADOR case, (Court of Appeals No. 37320-b), a fingerprint expert and constabulary
sergeant testified and successfully defended fingerprint evidence based on eight identical ride points.
People v. Medina (59 Phil. 330) - N.B. The first leading judicial decision in the Philippine
jurisprudence on the science of fingerprinting.

B. Admissibility of Fingerprint Testimony

Expert’s testimony as to the identity of thumb marks or fingerprints is admissible. The method of
identifying fingerprints is a science requiring close study. Where thumb impressions are blurred and many
of the characteristic marks far from clear, thus rendering it difficult to trace the features enumerated by
experts as showing the identity of the impressions, the court is justified in refusing to accept the opinion that
a distinct similarity in some respects between the admittedly genuine thumb mark and the questioned
thumb mark is evident.

This method of identification of persons has become a fixed part of our “SYSTEM OF
JURISPRUDENCE”. Proof of the accused found in the place where the crime was committed under such
circumstances that they could only have been impressed at the time when the crime was committed may
be sufficient proof of identity to sustain conviction.

C. The Number of Ridge Characteristics as Basis for Absolute Identity

There are no national or international rules or laws that fix the number of ridge characteristics that
must be present in both the questioned and standard prints that should be used as a basis for establishing
absolute identity. Experts of different countries differ in the requirements of the minimum number. In
England, the minimum is 16 and in USA, the minimum requirement is 12. However, fingerprint experts in
these countries believe that identity can be established in lower number of guidelines laid down by the
famous French Criminalist Dr. Edmond Locard:
a. Clearness of the pattern.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 20


b. Rarity of the type
c. Presence of core or delta in the decipherable part
d. Presence of pores
e. The perfect and clear identity of the width of ridges and furrows, of the direction of the lines,
and the angular value of the furrows.

COUNTRY NO#. OF MINIMUM IDENTICAL POINTS

 Australia - - - - - -12
 Austria - - - - - -10-12
 Belgium - - - - - -8-12
 Canada - - - - - -10
 Denmark - - - - - -16
 France - - - - - -17
 Interpol - - - - - - 12
 Israel - - - - - -10-12
 Japan - - - - - -12-14
 New Zealand - - - - -8-12
 Spain - - - - - -10-12
 U.K. - - - - - -16
 U.S.A. - - - - - -7-12
 Philippines - - - - -8-12

D. Weight of Fingerprint

The weight to be given to evidence of correspondence of fingerprint when offered to prove identity
of the accused as the person committing a crime is for the determination of the court in the light of all the
surrounding facts and circumstances.

To warrant a conviction the fingerprints corresponding to those of the accused must have been
found in the place where the crime was committed under such circumstances that they could only have
been impressed at the time when the crime was committed.

E. Can Fingerprint be Effaced?

Ans. No, as long as the dermis of the bulbs of the fingers is not completely destroyed, the
fingerprints will always remain unchanged and indestructible.

 John Dellinger, a notorious gangster and a police character, attempted to erase his
fingerprints by burning them with acid but as time went by the ridges were again restored to their
“natural” feature. The acid he applied temporarily destroyed the epidermis of the bulbs of his
fingers.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 21


 Locard and Witkowsji of Lyons, who performed rather painful experiments on themselves by
burning their fingertips with boiling water, hot oil and hot metal had shown that after the healing of
the epidermis (outer skin), the original patterns of fingerprints reappeared.

 Robert James Pitts- The person who attempted to destroy his fingerprint through surgery. Also
known as “The Man without Fingerprint”

F. Can Fingerprints be Forged?

The authorities conducted various experiments and although they could almost make an accurate
reproduction’s till there is no case on record known or have been written that forgery of fingerprints has
been a complete success.

G. Can you force a person to be fingerprinted?

Yes, provided the arrest was legal, this is to establish the true identity.

H. Reasons why Fingerprints is one of the Most Infallible Means of Personal Identification.

 INFALLIBLE- means incapable of error.


1. Fingerprints are already formed about 3 to 4 months of intra-uterine life and will remain
unchanged throughout life until the final decomposition of the body.
2. The pattern formation formed by the papillary ridges contains peculiar characteristics upon
which a person can always be identified by fingerprint examiners.
3. Almost every police and law enforcement agencies throughout the world accept, adopt and
utilize the fingerprint system as a means of absolute identification of a person.
4. The court and other authorities had taken cognizance of its importance and reliability as a
means of identification.
5. That fingerprint will speak for itself as it shows the owner thereof in accordance with the
principle of re ipso liquitor (a thing will speak for itself).

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 22


UNIT-4 FINGERPRINT CHARACTERISTICS AND FORMATIONS
A. Allied Sciences of Fingerprints

Dactyloscopy – the science which deals with the study of fingerprints as a


means of personal identification.

Taken from Greek words:

 Dactylos – a finger
 Skopien – to examine

 Dactylography- the study of fingerprints for the purpose of identification.


 Dactylomacy- an attempt at character reading through the pattern of
fingerprints.
 Dermatoglyphics- are the lines, tracings and designs on the skin of the finger,
palms and soles.
 Polydactyl- a hand having more than the required numbers of fingers.

 Syndactyl – having two or more fingers or toes joined together, congenital


abnormality.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 23


 Brachdactyl – in this condition, the fingers or toes are abnormally short.

 Ectrodactyl – the congenital absence of one or more digits. Sufferers may be


born with as few as two fingers and a thumb on one or both hands.

 Macrodactyl – this is a congenital abnormal largeness of fingers or toes.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 24


 Orthodactyl – here, the fingers or toes cannot be flexed, ordinarily as a result of
symphalangy.

Three Allied or Related Sciences within the Scope of Dactyloscopy:

1. Poroscopy – Scientific examination of the sweat pores/glands.


 Greek words: Poros- a pare Skopein- to examine
2. Chiroscopy – Scientific examination of the palm of the hand.
 Greek words: Cheir-palm/hand Skopein- to examine
3. Podoscopy – Scientific examination of sole of the foot.
 Greek words: Podo- sole/foot Skopein- to examine

Basic and composite ridge characteristics (minutiae)

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 25


C. Types of Ridge Formation

1. Ridge Ending - It is a termination or ending of ridge or ridges


2. Bifurcating ridges – A single ridge which splits into two ridges forming a “Y”
shape formation or structure.
3. Dot or Series of Dots – They are fragmentary ridges formed like a dot or
dots.
4. Ridge Hook – It is a ridge that divides to form two ridges which are shorter in
length than the main ridge.
5. Recurving ridge – is a ridge that curves back in the direction in which it
started.
6. Converging Ridges – Two or more lines forming an angle, a ridge whose
closed end is angular and serves as a point of convergence.
7. Diverging ridges – Two ridges running side by side and suddenly
separating, one ridge going one way and the other ridge, another way.
8. Island, Eyelet, lake or Eye – it is a single ridge which bifurcates where the
bifurcating ridges converge at a certain point to form again into a single
ridge.
9. Short or Series of Short Ridges – they are fragmentary ridges formed by
short or series of short ridges.
10. Fragmentary Ridges – They consist of disconnected sequences of short
ridges embodied intensely. These ridges are considered in the classification
of fingerprints if they appear as dark and as thick as the surrounded ridges
within the pattern area.
11. Ridge Bridge – This is a connecting ridge between two ridges.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 26


12. Incipient or Nascent Ridge – This is a kind of ridge which is madly formed,
thin, short or broken which appears in the depressions between two well
formed ridges.
13. Sufficient Recurve – The space between shoulders of a loop, free of any
appendage, and a butting at right angle.
14. Appendage – A short ridge at the top or summit of a recurve usually at right
angle.
15. Core – It is a point on a ridge formation usually located at the center or heart
of a pattern.
16. Delta or Triradial Point – It a point on the first ridge formation at or directly in
front or near the center of the divergence of the type lines.
17. Envelop – Is a single recurving ridge enclosing one or more rods or bars.
18. Friction ridges – Are strips of skin on the inside of the end joints of our
fingers and thumbs by which fingerprints are made. They are also called
papillary ridges or epidermal ridges.
19. Furrows – Are depressions or canals between the ridges which maybe
compared with the low area in a tire tread.
20. Rod or Bar – is a single ending ridge at the center of a recurving ridge of a
loop pattern.
21. Up thrust - Is an ending ridge of any length rising at a sufficient degree from
a horizontal place.
22. Dissociated ridges – are unusual ridge structures having no well defined
patterns; the ridges are extremely short, appear like a series of “patches”
caused by a disturbance of developmental process at early fetal life of the
individuals.
23. Shoulder of a loop – It is that point at which the recurving ridge definitely
turns or curves.
24. Puckering – As growth ceases at several ends, the ends curl slightly.
25. Creases – Are thin, usually straight narrow white lines running transversely or
formed side to side, across the print, causing the puckering of the ridges.
26. Staple – Single recurving ridge at the center of the pattern area.
27. Spike – an ending ridge at the center of a pattern which forms the up thrust.

D. Type Lines and Pattern Area

1. Type line – Are two innermost ridge, it is a basic boundaries of most


fingerprints. Type lines start parallel or nun parallel to each other then,
diverge and tend to surround the pattern area.
2. Pattern area – The part of the fingerprint which lies within the area
surrounded by the type lines.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 27


RULES OF TYPELINES

1. Typelines are not always two continuous ridges, but are often broken. When
there is a definite break in a typeline, the ridge immediately outside of it is
considered as its continuation.

2. When locating typelines, it is necessary to keep in mind the difference between a


divergence and a bifurcation.

3. The arms of a bifurcation on which the delta is located cannot be used for
typelines.

4. Angles cannot be considered for typelines.

E. Core and Delta Location


Rules in Core Location:

1. The core is placed upon or within the innermost sufficient recurve.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 28


2. When the innermost sufficient recurve contains ending ridges or rod rising as
high as the shoulder of the loop further from the delta. The exemption to this rule
is when both shoulders are equidistant to the center of the sufficient recurve.
3. When the innermost sufficient recurve contains an uneven number of rods rising
as high as the shoulders, the core is placed upon the end of the center rod
whether it touches the looping ridge or not.
4. When the innermost sufficient recurve contains an even number of rods rising as
high as the shoulders, the core is placed upon the end of the further one of the
two center rods, the two rods being treated as though they were connected by a
recurving ridge.

N.B. - Always base on the entrance of the pattern in the fingerprint.

F. Rules on Delta Location

General Rule - A dot can be a delta when there is no other alternative.

G. Rules in Delta Location when there is a Choice Between Two or More Delta

1. The delta may be located at a bifurcation which does open towards the core.
2. When there is a choice between a bifurcation and another type of delta, equally
close to the point of divergence, the bifurcation is selected.
3. When there is a series of bifurcation opening towards the core at the point of
divergence of two type lines, the bifurcation nearest to the core is chosen as the
delta.
4. The delta may not be located in the middle of the ridge running between the type
lines toward the cores but at the nearer end only. The location of the delta
depends entirely upon the point of origin of the ridge between the type lines
toward the core.
5. If the ridge enters the pattern area from the point below the divergent type lines.
The delta must be located at the end nearer (inner terminus) to the core.

H. Ridge counting and Ridge tracing

1. Ridge Counting – It refers to the process of counting the intervening ridges that
touch or cross an imaginary line drawn between the core and the delta.

N.B. - It applies only to loops.

2. Ridge tracing – Is the process of tracing the ridges that emanate from the lower
side of the left delta towards the right delta to see where it flows in relation to the
right delta.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 29


UNIT 5- Fingerprint Pattern Interpretation

Distribution of fingerprint patterns:

1. Arches – 5% of populations
2. Loops – 60 to 65% of populations
3. Whorls – 30 to 35% of populations

N.B. - According to studies, the appearance of arches is less followed by whorls and
the loops.

TYPES OF FINGERPRINT PATTERNS


I. Loops

1. ulnar
2. radial

II- Arches

1. Tented
2. Plain

III-Whorl

1. Plain whorl
2. Central pocket loop whorl
3. Double loop whorl
4. Accidental whorl

K. Rules to be Memorized

1. Radial loop (R) derived its name from the radius bone of the forearm; it is
one type of fingerprint patterns in which the ridges run its direction to the
radius bone or to the thumb.

2. Ulnar loop is one type of fingerprint pattern in which the ridges flow toward
the ulnar bone or little finger. Ulnar loop, therefore derived its name from the
ulna bone of the forearm, or little finger. Its symbol is letter “ U” in
classification purposes.
N.B. - A pattern to be a loop must have the following four (4) essential
requisites:

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 30


1. It must have a core
2. It must have a delta
3. An imaginary line must pass between the core and
the delta
4. It must have a ridge count of a minimum of at least
one (1)

3. Plain whorl, defined:

Symbolized by letter W in the classification. It is a fingerprint pattern which


there are two (2) deltas and in which at least one (1) ridge makes a turn through
one complete circuit, an imaginary line drawn between the two (2) deltas must
touch or cross at least one (1) of the circuiting whorl ridges within the pattern
area.

4. Central Pocket Loop Whorl, defined:

Symbolized by letter C in the classification. It is a fingerprint pattern


which for the most part of a loop, but which has a small whorl inside the loop
ridges, sometimes called a composite pattern, which means that it is made up of
two (2) patterns in one, a whorl inside a loop.

It has two (2) deltas, one of which appears as the edge of the pattern
area, as in plain loop. And one shows inside the pattern area just below the
counterpart ridges.

5. Double Loop Whorl, defined:

Symbolized by letter D in the classification. A double loop whorl is a


pattern consisting of two (2) separate and distinct loop formations. One of the
loops surrounds or overlaps the other, also called COMPOSITE PATTERN, like
the central pocket loop whorl. It arises from the fact that these patterns are a
composite or combination of two (2) patterns in one, with two cores and two
deltas.

6. Accidental Whorl, defined:


Symbolized by letter X in the classification. It is a pattern which is a
combination of two or more different types of pattern except in the PLAIN ARCH.
It is a pattern which is a combination of two or more different types of pattern
except in the PLAIN ARCH. It can be a combination of a loop and a whorl, a loop
and a central pocket loop whorl, or any combination of two or more different
loops and whorl type patterns.

7. Plain Arch, defined:

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 31


Symbolized by letter A in the classification. It is a fingerprint pattern in
which the ridges enter on one side of the pattern and flow towards the other side
with a rise at the center with not more than one of the four (4) essential requisites
for loop pattern and with no recurving ridge, no angular formation and no upward
thrust.

N. B. - It enters to the left and flows towards the right.

8. Tented Arches, defined:


 Symbolized by letter T in the classification. It is a variety of arch family,
but their ridge formations are not so simple as those of the plain arch, also
considered TRANSITIONAL PATTERN between a plain arch and a loop.

Generally speaking, TENTED ARCHES are formed in any of these three (3)
way formations, to wit:

1. One or several ridges in the center of the form an up thrust.


2. The ridge or ridges in the center formed a well defined angle.
3. The pattern may have two or three or four essential requisites of a loop
pattern.

N. B. - An up thrust must have an ending ridge.

VI. REAL FINGERPRINT IMPRESSIONS

Real Impressions - Impressions of the finger bulbs with the use of the printing ink on
the surface of the paper. Any other coloring materials may be used but less visible and
indelible.

METHOD OF PRODUCING REAL IMPRESSIONS


1. Plain Method.
2. Rolled Method

Types of fingerprint impression

1. Rolled Impression
 are fingerprint impression taken individually by rolling each finger from one side to
the other side and from the tip to the end of the first joint.
2. Plain Impression
 are impression made by simultaneously pressing the finger to the card, use as a
reference to classification.

METHODS OF RECORDING REAL FINGERPRINTS


Step 1- Ink the roller. Apply a small amount (about ¼ inch long stream) of
fingerprint ink on the right side of the slab, toward the back. Roll out a two to three inch
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 32
wide layer of ink on the back portion of the slab-lifting the roller off the slab after each
stroke and return to the starting point (do not use a back-and-forth motion with the
roller). Repeat several times until a thin film of ink forms on the roller.
Step 2 - Next, using the same roller motion (without rolling back and forth),
spread the layer toward the front edge of the slab, until a smooth, uniform coating of ink
forms. The front edge is where the fingerprints are rolled. When the ink on the front
edge becomes too thin, replenish the ink roller on the back edge of the slab and repeat
step two.

Porelon Pad Method - No advance preparation is needed to use the Porelon pad.
However, the pad surface should be cleaned occasionally to remove oil and dirt
deposits by wiping the surface lightly with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.

Print Matic Method - Like the slab and roller method, the Print matic method
requires that the ink is embedded within the Print Matic roller, and coating the slab
requires only a few passes of the roller in the same direction to apply a thin, even layer
of ink.

EQUIPMENTS USED IN PREPARATION FOR TAKING FINGERPRINT


USING SLAB AND ROLLER METHOD

1. INKING PLATE – A 12 inches plate is long enough for most set of 0 fingers. The
width of the plate should not be less than 8 inches, ten (10) is a better width. A
10 inch plate is also wide enough to ink a complete palm in one operation
whenever it becomes necessary.
2. CARD HOLDER – The simplest is a U-shaped spring clamp. Made of spring
steel, stainless steel or brass of gauge sufficient to hold its shape in heavy
usage.
3. ROLLER – 6 inches long, and 2 inches in diameter. The handle should have
supporting posts or legs to suspend the rubber roller from developing flat sides
and to keep unused portions of the plate and table top from being smeared with
ink.
4. INK - black printers ink is the most commonly used for taking fingerprint
impression. It is a consistency suitable for rolling into a thin film and it is quick
drying when transferred to a card as an inked impression. Yet it does not dry too
fast. Usable for several hours after a film has been rolled.

FOUNTAIN PEN INK, COLORED INK AND STAMP PAD INK ARE OBJECTIONABLE
FOR SEVERAL REASONS, TO WIT:
1. They are too thin
2. Dry too quickly
3. Stamp pad smears easily
4. Impressions using stamp pad reproduce ‘weave” of the pad stamp covering
the inked impression.
5. Unsatisfactory for comparison purposes.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 33
5. FINGERPRINT STAND – 32 inches high, the inking surface of a fingerprint stand
should be approximately 12 inches above the top of an ordinary desk making the
printing surface approximately 44 inches from the floor for the average person.
6. STANDARD EIGHT BY EIGHT INCHES FINGERPRINT CARD – It is found to
be adequate for receiving five rolled impressions across the card the size
convenient for handling and filing.

IMPORTANT POINTS TO BE CONSIDERED IN TAKING LEGIBLE FINGERPRINTS:


1. Cleanliness of equipment
2. The right kind and correct amount of ink.
3. Proper distribution of ink on the glass slab or inking plate.
4. The distance of the subject from the inking on the fingerprint card.
5. The advice of the operator to the subject to relax and never to aid in the
operation.
6. The pressure exerted must be slight and even the rolling be continuous
movement including lifting.
7. The nail of the fingers should be at rights angle to the slab or to the card before
starting the rolling and always roll the fingers until the other side of the nail is
reached (180 degrees).
8. The inking and printing must always reach below the first of the fingers.
9. The thumbs should be rolled towards the subject’s body and all other fingers
away from the subject’s body.

STEPS IN TAKING FINGERPRINTS


1. The first and most important step is clear the plate thoroughly.
2. A daub of printer’s ink is deposited near the edge of the plate away from the
operator.
3. The subject’s hand and fingers must be relaxed.

STANCE FOR TAKING PRINTS - Most operators stand on the left side of the person
whose prints are being taken for the simple reason that more people are right handed
and then normally work more efficiently and do better advantage toward the right.
Therefore, most fingerprint stands are made so that the printing is done on the left front
corner.

N.B. Rolled Impression – the subject must be relaxed


Plain Impression – the subject may not be relaxed

FINGER DISABILITIES THAT NEED EXTRA-ATTENTION IN TAKING PRINTS:


1. Temporary Disabilities
a. fresh cuts or wounds or bandaged fingers
b. Occupational marks (dry skin) – carpenters, bricklayers, etc.
c. Excessive perspiration
2. Permanent Disabilities
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 34
a. lack of fingers – in-born or amputated
b. crippled fingers – bent or broken
c. deformities – webbed, extra fingers (poly dactyl)
d. old age
e. split fingers/thumbs

EXTRAORDINARY TAKING OF REAL FINGERPRINT IMPRESSIONS


1. Excessively sweating fingers - Impressing shall be made after temporarily
suppressing sweating by wiping fingers with a lightly squeezed piece of gauze to
which formalin alcohol liquid (100 ml. of ethyl alcohol liquid containing 1-3 ml. of
formalin pharmacopoeia) is applied.
2. Fingers with stiff joints - Impressing shall be made after shaking a subject’s hand
grasped by the wrist up and down several times to smoothen the joint movement. In
this case, if the impressing plate and the glass plate are placed somewhat higher
while having the subject stand somewhat away from the table, handling would be
easier.
3. Fingers with stiff surface skin, coarse fingers and fingers suffering from
dermatophytosis - Wrap fingers in a steamed towel for several minutes, then
impress. In this case, somewhat denser ink and somewhat weaker impressing will
be better.

FINGERPRINT IMPRESSING TECHNIQUE FOR A DEAD BODY


1. Fingers soon after death - Wipe out fingers with a piece of gauze containing
alcohol if they are stained. In case where satisfactory roll impressions are not
obtainable by the ordinary impressing technique, the impression paper shall be cut
to a proper size, and impressing shall be made onto it using such aids as a
fingerprint taking pallet from a dead body.
2. Stiff fingers of a clenched fist - Impressing shall be made using an aid such as a
spatula for taking fingerprints from a dead body.
3. Blanched and wrinkled fingers

A. Finger without percolate - Wipe them with a piece of alcohol – containing


gauze, soften them thoroughly with your finger tips, stretch wrinkles, and then impress.
B. Fingers with percolate - Take their mold with silicon after drying with lycopodium
powder. In order to obtain fingerprint impressions from silicon molds, strippable paint or
cortex shall be used this technique is as follows:

FINGERS WITH PEELED-OFF SURFACE SKIN. Wind that surface skin around the
operator’s finger. Apply ink to it and impress. When the true skin is exposed, take
photo after applying ink to the true skin or drying it with an aqueous marker in water or
alcohol.

FINGER OF CHARRED BODY. In case where it is feared that they will disintegrate by
even the slightest, their photo shall be taken as they are.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 35


MUMMIFIED OR ADIPOCERED FINGERS. Take their mould with silicon, make films
with strippable paint or cortex, and impress.

VII. CHANCE FINGERPRINT IMPRESSIONS

Chance Impressions, defined:


These are fingerprints which are imprinted by mere chance or without any
intention to produce the print. Chance print may be:
A. Plastic impression – impressions made by chance on cellophane tapes or any
plastic materials.
B. Visible prints – impressions made by chance and visible without chemical
treatment.
C. Latent prints – Impressions which are visible grossly but made visible by the
addition of some substances. These are fingerprints found at the scene of a
crime.

SEARCH FOR SCENE FINGERPRINT IMPRESSIONS -


In order to collect scene fingerprints, it is necessary to clarify where they were
impressed.
Most scene fingerprints are usually found at the points of entry, and departure,
places ransacked, etc. Therefore, searching for scene fingerprints should be made with
emphasis on such places but be thoroughly made on their surroundings. Further, there
may be cases where a suspect uses gloves, wipes out his fingerprint after committing a
crime, or makes other actions in connection with fingerprints. Thus, even when glove
impressions or other traces of actions have been found as result of a fingerprint search,
it is necessary not to give up but to make a thorough search all over the scene of the
crime.

HOW TO COLLECT CHANCE FINGERPRINTS


The methods of collecting fingerprints are roughly classified into eight, i.e., solid
method (powder method), liquid method, gas method, lifting method, flame method,
molding method, photographing method and development with lasers.

SOLID METHOD (POWDER METHOD)


This solid method is also called the powder method since powder is used, and is
the most basic method.

The kinds and properties of powders commonly used are as follows:

Name color adhesiveness composition

Aluminum silver extremely crushed


Powder (gray) white strong aluminum foil

Highnium silver moderately charge-proof


RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 36
Grayish strong processed gray

Ultranium grayish weak resin and areic


Acid processed
Aluminum powder

Black black weak mixture of


Powder carbon black and graphite

Brown powder sepia weak manganese


(black powder B-5) dioxide powder

White powder sepia weak powder mixture


of zinc oxide and talc

Lead pure weak Basic lead carbonate


Carbonate white

Lycopodium light extremely spores of club


Powder yellow weak moss (lycopodium)

Yellow powder yellow weak yellow color, or


Lycopodium added yellow
color

Red lead vermilion weak trilead


Tetroxide Powder

Indigo purple weak Indigotin (for drying)

Fluorescent yellow weak organic zinc


Powder sulfide or Zinc sulfide

Magnetic blackish weak carbon-added


Powder gray electrolytic Iron powder

Each powder has its own properties of color, adhesiveness, grain size,
delineability, etc. A suitable powder is selected and used according to the conditions of
impression and object. Sometimes, two or more kidns of powder are used in mixture.
This is called mixture powder. By using mixture powder, color and adhesiveness can
be adjusted. For example, by mixing lead carbonate with indigo, the disappearance of
fingerprints lifted to gelatin paper can be prevented, while by mixing aluminum powder
(gray) with lycopodium, the excessive adhesion of aluminum powder (gray) can be
prevented.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 37


POWDERING METHODS - Powdering methods include the brushing method, rolling
method, spraying method and light hitting method.
 The brushing method is a method where, after affixing powder to an object to be
examined with a brush (developing brush) to whose tip a small quantity of powder
has been affixed a fingerprint is developed by lightly sweeping it with another,
powder less brush (finishing brush) to remove excessive powder.
 The rolling method is method where, after placing a proper quantity of powder on
an object to be examined, lightly moving it by bending and tilting, spreading out
powder all over the object to have powder adhere to the fingerprint, the fingerprint
is developed by flipping the back side of the object to remove excess powder.
 Also, there is another method called the sprinkling or tapping method where, after
having powder adhere to a fingerprint by lightly tapping the object to be examined,
the fingerprint is developed by lightly tapping a part of the object with one’s fist, etc.
to remove excess powder.
 The spraying method is a method where, after evenly spraying powder over the
object to be examined from a distance of approximately 30 cm, the fingerprint is
developed by removing excess powder by an air spray or with a brush, etc. This
method is suitable for cases where development is made from a porous or solid
object using lowly adhesive powder.
 In cases where development has been made by using fluorescent powder, the
effect is doubled if observed by utilizing an ultra-violet ray emitter.
 The light-striking method is a method where, after having powder adhere to a
fingerprint by, say, lightly striking the object to be examined with a brush tip to
which powder has been applied, the fingerprint is developed with another brush to
which no powder is applied or by air blowing with a blower-brush or a spray to
remove excess powder. This method is suitable for development from an object
with a porous or adhesive surface.

LIFTING METHOD - Collecting method by lifting fingerprint developed with powder


include methods employing cellophane tape, vinyl tape or other adhesive tape, and
methods employing silicon rubber.
1. The lifting technique with gelatin paper or lifter is as follows:
2. Cut gelatin paper or lifter to proper size.
3. Pull off the backing.
4. Direct the adhesive face toward the fingerprint.
5. Press on corner to the paper firmly to the object.
6. Press the rest of the paper to the object in stages, from the point already affixed
towards the fingerprint.
7. Press it lightly and evenly with your palm, etc. Less air should be trapped.
8. Peel it off after lifting.
9. Stick it to the backing in the same manner of lifting.

The lifting method using silicon rubber is as follows:


1. Stretch the above thinly and evenly onto a proper-sized piece of paper or cloth.
2. Add 5-10% by volume of hardener to silicon base.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 38
3. Mix them thoroughly.
4. Stretch the above thinly and evenly onto a proper-sized piece of paper or cloth.
5. Apply above to a fingerprint to be lifted.
6. Press lightly and evenly with a palm, etc. to prevent bubbles from being trapped.
7. Pull off after silicon has hardened.

Method of Restoration - When the fingerprint collection by solid method is over, the
object should be restored to its original state by removing powder which has been
affixed to it. This is called “restoration.” The method of restoration is as follows:
Wipe the object lightly with a piece of cloth or a brush which contains 0.5-1%
synthetic cleanser liquid or 2-5% soap liquid.

LIQUID METHOD - This method is as follows:


1. Affix some chemicals to latent or visible fingerprint to cause a chemical change in
the excreta elements.
2. Develop or clarify it.
3. Record the print by photographing it.

This method is effective for developing a latent print from an object such as
paper, wood or metal and to collect a visible fingerprint such as a blood fingerprint. This
is a chemical collecting method whose principle is that the element of the chemical
liquid reacts to the element in excreta or blood by changing color.
1. Reagent (chemical liquid) - Reagents commonly used are ninhydrin, silver
nitrate, etc.
2. Method to affix reagent - Method to affix reagent include the painting method,
soaking method and spraying method.
 The painting method is a method where an object is painted evenly with a brush
9flat brush for liquid) with ample reagent to affix the reagent to the fingerprints.
This method is suitable for a large or solid object to be examined.
 The soaking method is a method to affix reagent to fingerprints by soaking an
object to be examined into regent in a tray or other vessel. This method is
suitable for cases where a small object is to be examined for development.

The spraying method is as follows:


1. Fill a sprayer for liquid with reagent.
2. Spray evenly over the object to be examined about 30 cm. From the nozzle for
affixing the reagent to the object.

 This method is applicable to three-dimensional as well as flat-surfaced objects either


large or small.
 The sprayer used for the thin method should be capable of spraying as fine as mist
as possible.
 A ninhydrin sprayer is an aerosol-type sprayer exclusively for fingerprints which
sprays the reagent (0.5% acetone solution of ninhydrin) by means of pressurized

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 39


gas. Meanwhile, since silver nitrate reagent corrodes the metallic portions of a
sprayer, it should not be used in development by spraying method.

3. Method of development (collection)

Method of Restoration - When the fingerprint collecting work by the liquid method is
complete, the article should be restored to its original state by removing fingerprints
impressed thereon and stains produced by development, this is called restoration.
Restoration methods vary according to types of reagent used for development. For
restoration of a case using silver nitrate reagent, the object shall be washed in water
after being soaked in 2% alcohol liquid of corrosive sublimate. There is another method
of soaking in saturated solution of sodium thiosulphate after soaking in saturated
solution of iodine or of potassium ferry cyanide.
For restoration of a case using ninhydrin reagent, the object shall either be
applied with “Osyfull” oxygenated water) and be warmed, or be applied with 3% solution
of ammonium, or be soaked in hot water at 80 degrees or over.

GAS METHOD - This is a method where a latent fingerprint is developed by means of


coloring by affixing gasified reagent or by causing chemical change in elements of
excreta, and then collected by photographing or by lifting onto lifting material. This
method is suitable for developing fingerprints from papers, unpainted wood and textiles.

Iodine is exclusively used as a reagent. The developed pattern disappears with


in a few minutes. Therefore, reduction is unnecessary.

 The methods of affixing the reagent include a method where gas is blown on to an
object to be examined using an iodine gas generator or a method where gas is
filled up into a box in which an object has been placed. Also, there is another
method where gas is blown into a vinyl bag in which an object has been placed.
 Since the fingerprint developed disappears within a few minutes, it is collected by
being photographed.
 One of the recently developed method is to develop a fingerprint in white by affixing
gas generated from cyan acrylic instant adhesive. It proves effective for
developing fingerprints from a blackish object, especially the adhesive face of
adhesive tape.

The developing method is as follows:


1. Apply cyanoacrylate to a plastic or similar plate.
2. The place on which a fingerprint is supposedly impressed shall be placed and
fixed face to face about 3 mm above the plate.
3. Leave it under a cover.
4. The fingerprint is developed about 3 minutes later at the earliest.
5. The developed fingerprint shall be collected by being photographed.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 40


LIFTING METHOD - This method includes a method where a visible fingerprint is
directly lifted to lifting material, a method where a fingerprint which has been directly
lifted is processed with powder, chemical liquid, etc., and a method where a fingerprint
is lifted using lifting material processed in advance with chemical liquid, etc., and then
preserved as it is or photographed. These are effective for collecting dust fingerprints,
oil/grease fingerprints, and blood fingerprints.

1. Lifting material - All lifting materials used for lifting under the solid method, gelatin
paper, lifter, cellophane tape, transparent vinyl tape, and other adhesive tapes can
be used; but in most cases, gelatin paper is used.

2. Lifting method - The method of lifting directly to the lifting material is mostly used
for collecting a dust fingerprint or oil/grease fingerprints.
The method using processed lifting material is to lift the material to whose
surface chemical liquid etc. has been applied in advance. This method is used for
collecting an oil/grease fingerprint and a just fingerprint.

3. Major collecting methods - Major collecting methods by tape of visible fingerprint


are as follows:

a. Dust fingerprint - In cases where dust quantity is small, a fingerprint shall be lifted
directly to gelatin paper (black). Whenever the fingerprint has become unclear after
lifting, the transparent plate shall be peeled off and photograph shall be taken by
lighting from the rear side, or the fingerprint shall be developed by having
lycopodium stick to the peeled backing by rolling method 7-9 days after lifting. Also
if the transparent plate is peeled off after lifting, its impressed face is turned
upwards, and the plate is soaked in ethyl alcohol for 1-3 minutes, its gelatin film
hardens and further change is prevented.

b. Blood fingerprint - In cases where a blood fingerprint has just been impressed on
an unabsorptive object, it shall be directly lifted on gelatin paper. In cases whir lifting
is difficult as it has become slightly dryer, it is better to apply gelatin paper to and
lightly press the blood fingerprint following the technique of lifting, to peel off the
paper after moistening the blood, to stick aluminum powder or gray to the blood
fingerprint by brushing, and to lift it onto other gelatin paper.

c. Oil/grease fingerprint - When the surface is dry, it shall be collected by lifting it onto
Binio roll lifter as it is. If not dry, it shall be lifted after drying in the shade.
Meanwhile, in cases of fluid oil/grease, a fingerprint cannot be collected by this
method.

FLAME METHOD - This is a method of developing or clarifying by affixing soot to a


latent or unclear fingerprint. The developed fingerprint shall be collected by lifting in
onto lifting material or by photographing. This method is suitable for collection from
metal or other object with a porous surface.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 41
Soot-generating materials (burning material) include magnesium (photo flash
powder), camphor, pine resin, benzene, kerosene, edible oil, paraffin and candles.

MOLDING METHOD - This is a method of collecting visible fingerprints with a


molding material, and is suitable for collecting from an object with so complicated and
uneven a surface that lifting with lifting material is unfeasible. This is also suitable for
collecting a latent fingerprint developed from a heated object.
The molding materials include silicon rubber, plaster, “Aljix”, strippable paint,
paraffin was, and plastic liquid. Collection shall be made by taking a photograph or just
preserving the mold.

PROTOGRAPHING METHOD - Space age technology is being used to enhance latent


prints that heretofore were of insufficient quality to be used. While image processing
has been used for some time, the high cost of computers precluded the use of such
technology in most crime laboratories. Major advances in the “microchip” industry and
the resulting proliferation of relatively inexpensive microcomputers have placed this
technology within the budgets of many laboratories.

DEVELOPMENT WITH LASERS - light amplification by stimulated emission of


radiation. The use of lasers for detection of latent fingerprint is relatively new and dates
from 1976. By 1985, approximately 50 forensic science laboratories, or approximately
15 percent of the crime laboratories in North America, used lasers.
With nonporous items (e.g., plastic bags, glass, and so forth), the evidence is first
fumed with cyanoacrylate. If prints are not visible by means of normal techniques
employed, the material is washed with a methanol solution of rhodamine 6G. Excess
rhodamine is washed off with methanol, using a laboratory plastic wash bottle. If prints
are present, the small amount of excess rhodamine will adhere to them and show up
under laser illumination can be used. A zinc chloride solution is used to change the
Ruheman’s purple coloration, caused by the reaction of ninhydrin with the amino acids
present in the prints, to a yellow-orange color. The color change is luminescent in laser
light, and visible prints may be photographed.
On porous items of evidence (e.g., paper, cardboard, and the like), evidence is
treated in the usual way with ninhydrin. If prints are visible but have insufficient ridge
detail, laser illumination can be used. A zinc chloride solution is used to change the
Ruhemann’s purple coloration, caused by the reaction of ninhydrin with the amino acids
present in the prints, to a yellow-orange color. The color change is luminescent in laser
light, and visible prints may be photographed.
At this time there are three types of lasers used in latent print work: the argon ion
laser, copper vapor laser, and neodymium: YAG laser.

LATENT FINGERPRINTS ON HUMAN SKIN - Techniques for developing latent


fingerprints on human skin have been devised, but have been successful only in rare
instances. They may be attempted in certain cases. The procedures are simple to use,
inexpensive, and can be accomplished by evidence technicians. The procedures work
on both living and deceased subjects.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 42
The Kromekote card is used to lift the print from the skin surface by placing the
card over the skin in the suspected area and applying pressure for about 3 seconds.
The card is carefully removed and then dusted with black fingerprint powder to develop
the print transferred onto the card. The fingerprint obtained is the mirror image of a
normal print, which can be reversed through photography.
After the Kromekote technique is used, fingerprint powder can be applied directly
to the skin to develop prints. The literature reports that the Magna-Brush gives results
superior to a fiberglass filament brush. If a print is developed by this method, it must be
photographed and then may be lifted using cellophane lifting tape.
Fingerprints on skin surfaces appear to last about 1-1/2 hours on living victims.
Deceased victims should be examined for latent prints on the skin as soon as possible.
The technique is still somewhat experimental, but the simplicity and ease of use of the
methods will result in greater use through experience on the part of investigators.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 43


Unit 6- CLASSIFICATION OF FINGERPRINTS
STEPS IN CLASSIFICATION
A. STEPS
1. Recording – Simply means the taking of fingerprint impressions, either rolled or
plain impression.
2. Interpretation – Simply means the naming or interpreting of a fingerprint pattern.
Loop (either radial or ulnar), Arch (plain or tented) or whorl (plain, central pocket
loop) whorl, double loop whorl or accidental whorl).
3. Blocking – This applies only to loop pattern either as ulnar or radial loop. It
means designating by symbol the type of patterns which each finger and thumb
bears and recording for each respective finger and thumb.
4. Classification – This refers to the classification proper this time you need a
complete set of ten (10) fingerprint patterns to obtain the necessary classification.

CLASSIFICATION IN GENERAL – It refers to the sorting things into division or


group so that they can at later time be quickly located.

B. PATTERNS WHICH REQUIRE SPECIAL ATTENTION


1. Doubtful – interpretation is very difficult.
2. Questionable – a doubtful pattern
3. Borderline – whereby in either case, it can be the combination of different kinds
of fingerprint pattern. And the classification of such is confused as to its proper
interpretation.
4. Approximating – sometimes the same as to that of doubtful.

C. SOME IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER IN CLASSIFYING FINGERRPITNS


1. Division – for purposes of classification and filing, all the type patterns are
divided into two groups; the numeral and the non-numeral.
2. Numerical – the numerical group is composed of set of prints containing whorl
pattern.
3. Non-numerical – the non-numerical group is composed of sets of prints in which
no whorls are present.
4. Fingerprint analysis – the analysis of fingerprint is the identifying and
distinguishing of fingerprint pattern according to their design and formation.
5. Classification formula – is the result of combining all the patterns of the
fingerprints and recording them in a specific order or manner at the top right of
the fingerprint card. It represents the patterns of all ten fingers of both hands
combined.
6. Filing – is an orderly manner of starting the card and grouping each card and
filing in a specific sequence according to the final classification formula.
7. Pockets – the fingerprint cards are grouped according to the classification
formula and the classification of the extension used in the bureau.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 44
8. Searching – means an attempt to locate in the file a print identical to the current
print and thus established identification.
9. Denominator’s meaning in primary classification – the denominator written
below the line constitute the total numerical value of the finger in which the
whorls appear, is the natural sequence of numbers from one to thirty two (1 to
32).

BASIC RULES FOR TRACING IN WHORLS:


1. Tracing always begins at the left delta and goes toward the right delta.
2. An uninterrupted ridge can be traced from the left delta to the right delta.
3. When the tracing ridge suddenly ends, the tracing is continued on the ridge
below it. A ridge must definitely end before the tracing may be continued on the
ridge below.
4. When a ridge bifurcates, the tracing is continued on the lower branch or the
bifurcation.
5. When the delta is dot, the tracing begins on the type line, which is the ridge
immediately below the delta.

RULES FOR BEGINNING AND ENDING RIDGE COUNT:


1. Ridge tracing begins at the extreme left delta and stops at the point directly in
front of the right delta.
2. In a double loop whorl, the tracing begins at the extreme left delta. When the
tracing passes inside the right delta, one stops at the nearest point to the right
delta on an up thrust.
3. In an accidental whorl having three deltas, the tracing begins at the extreme left
delta and goes towards the extreme delta. Any other delta encountered is
ignored.
4. If no up thrust is represented, one continues the tracing until a point opposite the
right delta, or the left delta itself, is reached.

D. SYMBOLS IN BLOCKING
FINGERPRINT PATTERN INDEX FINGER OTHER FINGERS
Arches (Plain) A a
Arches (tented) T t
Radial loops R or / r or /
Ulnar loops U or \ u or \
Plain Whorls W w
Central Pocket Loop Whorl C c
Double Loop Whorl D d
Accidental Whorl X x

Note Bene:
1. If a finger appears to be amputated (cut off) just place the symbol or simple
abbreviation as AMP and the date of amputation on the box of the finger actually
amputated.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 45
2. In case of partial amputation, place the abbreviation symbol “TIP AMP”.

E. DIVISIONS OF THE PURE HENRY SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION


1. Primary
2. Secondary and small letter groups
3. Sub-secondary
4. Final
5. Major
6. Key

THE PRIMARY AND SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION

PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION
A. Procedure to be followed in obtaining primary classification
Numbering in natural sequence. The first step in classifying fingerprints is the
numbering of the finger and thumbs. The natural sequence, starting with the right
thumb as one and ending at the left little finger as ten is followed:
Right hand 1 2 3 4 5
Left hand 6 7 8 9 10

ODD FINGERS: The odd fingers are 1 (right thumb) 3 (right middle finger) 5 (right little
finger) 7 (left index finger) 9 (left ring finger).
EVEN FINGERS: The even fingers are 2 (right index finger) 4 (right ring finger) 6 (left
thumb) 8 (left middle finger) 10 (left little finger).

NUMERICAL VALUE OF WHORLS - Designated Value of Each Finger with Whorls


The Henry system designated the value of whorl according to the finger or thumb
on which they appear, and in the following sequences.
Right hand 16 16 8 8 4
Left hand 4 2 2 1 1

TOTAL WHORL FOR PRIMARY - In a set of prints, the numerical value is represented
by two (2) distinct totals. First: all whorls appearing on the odd fingers; and
second, all whorls appearing on the even fingers. The two totals obtained
constitute the primary classification. ODD and EVEN finger must never total
together. The ODD numbered fingers shall constitute as the denominator and the
EVEN numbered fingers as the numerator.
ARBITRARY COUNT OF ONE (1) ADDED - To each total, an arbitrary count of one is
added.
PURPOSE OF ARBITRARY COUNT OF ONE (1) - The purpose of the arbitrary count
of one is to avoid a classification of zero over zero in a set of print in which no
whorls appear; this might be mistaken for the letter “O” which has another specific
meaning in the classification.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 46


NUMBER OF POSIBLE COMBINATIONS IN THE PRIMARY - There are one thousand
and twenty four (1,024) possible combinations of primaries, beginning with “one
over one” and ending with “thirty-two over thirty-two”

AFTER GETTING THE PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION YOU MUST FILE THE


FINGERPRINT IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER: 1/1 - Lowest
Classification
32/32 - Highest Classification

ILLUSTRATION:
1. 1/1, ½, 1/3, ¼, 1/5, 1/6……………………….. 1/32
2. 2/1, 2/2, 2/3, 2/4, 2/5, 2/6 ……………………. 2/32
3. 3/1, 3/2, 3/3, ¾, 3/5, 3/6 ……………………… 3/32 TILL
4. 32/1, 32/2, 32/2, 32/4, 32/5, 32/6 ……..….. 32/32

RULES ON AMPUTATIONS AND FINGERPRINT MISSING AT BIRTH


1. If one finger is amputated (AMP) or missing at birth (FMB) the classification is
based on the opposite finger with the numerical value.

NOTE: The numerical value of the (AMP) (FMB) must not be changed.

2. If both fingers are amputated or missing at birth they are treated as whorl with the
respective numerical value and with meeting (M) tracing.

SECONDARY CLASSIFICTION
RANK – The secondary classification follows the primary classification.
POSITION OF SECONDARY – The secondary classification appears just to the right of
the fraction which represents the primary.
MEANING OF SECONDARY – The numerator (WRITTEN ABOVE) indicates the type
of pattern appearing on the index finger of the right hand.
DENOMINATOR MEANING – The denominator (WRITTEN BELOW) Indicate the type
pattern appearing on the index finger of the left hand.

PATTERNS WHICH APPEAR


FIVE BASIC TYPES OF PATTERN THAT CAN APPEAR
1. Arch (A)
2. Tented Arch (T)
3. Radial loop (R)
4. Ulnar loop (U)
5. Whorl (W)
6. Central Pocket Loop Whorl (C)
7. Double Loop Wwhorl (D)
8. Accidental Whorl (X)

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 47


SEQUENCE - Just as in the sequence of the primary classification, in filing, the
denominator does not change until the numerator has exhausted all the changes
of pattern in their orderly sequence.
SMALL LETTER GROUPS - The small letter group of the primary classification
includes prints having plain arches, tented arches and radial loops on fingers other
than the indexes.
WHAT CONSTITUTES A SMALL LETTER - For purposes of blocking a set of
fingerprints, the patterns of the index fingers are designated by a capital letter and
the patterns on other fingers and thumbs are designated by small letter.
BLOCKING - For purposes of blocking a set of fingerprints, the patterns of the index
fingers are designated by a capital letter and the patterns on other fingers and
thumbs are designated by small letter. These are placed in their respective
blocks.
WRITING THE FORMULA - For the purpose of writing the classification formula, the
same rule held true the capital letters designated on index fingers and the small
letters designated other fingers. The classification formula is written at the top of
the fingerprint card.
SEQUENCE IN WRITING LETTER INTO FORMULA - The small letters are written into
the classification formula in their natural sequences as they appear on the hands.
A small letter in the thumb will produce the writing of the classification of the
index fingers. Small letters in the middle, ring, and little fingers will follow the writing of
the classification of the index fingers.
This aRa would mean a thumb arch, and index radial, and a middle finger arch
on the
TUr

right hand, and thumb tented arch, and index ulnar, and a middle finger radial on the left
hand.

IMPORTANCE OF SMALL LETTERS - The absence of small letter groups are of vital
importance to the classification system as the small letter occurs relatively
infrequently.
FREQUENCY - The small letter groups, after the index fingers have been grouped
(small) in the following sequence:
FIRST: The denominator by count (the lesser number of small letters proceeding
the greater).
SECOND: By position (small letter to the left of the index finger proceeding these
at the right).
THIRD: By type (a,t, r).

THE SUB-SECONDARY AND FINAL CLASSIFICATION

SUB-SECONDARY – The sub-secondary classification is the grouping of prints


according to the ridge count of loops and ridge tracing on whorls.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 48


REASONS FOR SUBDIVISION – The sub-secondary classification is the group of print
within the secondary classification, thus facilitating searches since it limits the
search to smaller groups of the fingerprint cards.
POSITION OF FORMULA – The sub-secondary classification is placed on the
classification line immediately to the right of the secondary classification
RECORDING RIDGE COUNT – The ridge count of the loops are recorded as “I” (inner)
and “O” (outer).
RECORDING WHORL TRACING – The whorl tracing are recorded as follows:
INNER (I)
MEETING (M)
OUTER (O)

FINGERS CONSIDERED - In the sub-secondary classification, six fingers are


considered they are:
1. Right index finger
2. Right middle finger
3. Right ring finger
4. Left index finger
5. Left middle finger
6. Left ring finger

ESTABLISHED NUMBER OF RIDGE COUNTS

INDEX FINGERS:
One (1) to Nine (9) ridges ……………………… I (Inner)
Ten (10) or more ridges ………………………… 0 (Outer)
MIDDLE FINGERS:
One (1) to Ten (10) ridges ……………………… I (Inner)
Eleven (11) or more ridges ……………………... O (Outer)
RING FINGERS:
One (1) to thirteen (13) ridges ………………….. I (Inner)
Fourteen (14) or more ridges……………………. O (Outer)

LOOPS AND WHORLS IN SUB-SECONDARY - In a set of prints having loops and


whorl only the sub-secondary classification may include two (2), but not more than
three (3) fingers of each hand.
“M SYMBOL” - The symbol (M) meeting appearing in a sub-secondary classification,
indicates a whorl in the figures being considered, since only a whorl can have a
meeting tracing.
“I” and “O” SYMBOL - The symbols “I” and “O” in a sub-secondary classification may
relate to a set of prints having loops and whorls or all loops or whorls. Whether
the prints are loops, whorls or loops and whorls may be ascertained from the
primary classification since “one” over “one” indicates no whorls, thirty-two
indicates all whorls and other primaries indicates both loops and whorls.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 49


FILING: The filing of prints within the sub-secondary classification is done according to
the following sequences:
First – I (inner) in loops
Second – O (outer) in loops
First: I (Inner) in whorls
Second: M (meeting) in whorls
Third: O (outer) in whorls

As in all other components set of the classification formula, the denominator


does not change until the numerator has exhausted the entire sequence.

SUMMARY OF THE RULES:


1. For AMP and FMB-Apply the rule on primary classification.
2. Whorl-Apply Ridge Tracing.

For loops (Ridge Counting)


Index Finger
1-9 ridge count………………………………………………… I (Inner)
10 or more…………………………………………………….. 0 (outer)
Middle Finger
1-10 ridge count……………………………………………… I (Inner)
11 or more……………………………………………………. 0 (outer)
Ring Finger
1-13 ridge count………………………………………………. 1(Inner)
14 or more ridge count………………………………………… 0 (outer)

3. For Arches
Use small letter (t) for tented arch.
Use small letter (a) for plain arch

If the index finger, middle finger, and ring finger are all plain arches just
put three dashes in the sub secondary classification and A2a in the Secondary
Classification. (Same is true when both index and middle fingers are the same).

If the index finger, middle finger and ring finger are all tented arches just
put three dashes in the sub secondary classification and T2t in the Secondary
Classification. (same is true when index and middle finger are the same).

4. For Whorl Tracing


A. Meeting (M) = 0, 1, 2, ridges either from the left delta or the right delta.
B. Outer (O) = 3 or more ridges below the right delta.
C. Inner (I) = 3 or more ridges above the right delta.

Clues:
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 50
1. If the ridges in the whorl pattern is ulnar it is OUTER.
2. If the ridges in the whorl pattern is radial it is INNER.
A. Take only the loop excluding the whorl inside it.
B. Left Delta will always be the one to drop. And in counting its ridges include
ending ridges and bifurcation.

FINAL CLASSIFICATION

FINAL CLASSIFICATION DEFINED: The final classification is the ridge count on


the loop (ulnar and radial) appearing in the right little finger.

POSITION - The final classification is indicated at the extreme right of the numerator.

NO LOOP IN THE RIGHT LITTLE FINGER - If a loop does not appear in the right little
finger, a loop in the left little finger may be used. The little finger position in the formula
remains unchanged, except that the ridge count is noted as a denominator rather than
as a numerator.

ARCH OR TENTED ARCH - If an arch or tented arch appears in the little finger, it is
indicated in the classification formula by a small dash (-). If such a formation appears in
both little fingers, final classification is not obtainable.
The Arch or Tented Arch appearing in either or both little fingers is not ignored in
the classification formula since it is incorporated and designated as a small letter in the
secondary classification.

BOTH LITTLE FINGERS ARE USED - Both little fingers are considered by some
bureaus and the ridge counts of both are recorded. However, the count of the
right little finger governs the sequence for filing within the final classification.
WHORL - If no loops appear in the little fingers but a whorl appears instead. A final
classification may be obtained by a ridge count of the whorl. Making a ridge count
of whorls (in either or both little fingers) is required in connection with a large
collection or group of prints, such as prints having a primary classification of thirty
two over thirty two.
SEARCH - When a search is made within a group of cards, and when the final is
designated, only prints having the same final count or count are examined. Some
bureaus allow a count of three on either side of the final classification.
LITTLE FINGERS USED ONLY FOR FINAL CLASSIFICATION - The ridge of the little
finger is used exclusively for the final classification.
LITTLE FINGERS NOT USED FOR KEY CLASSIFICATION - At no time can the ridge
count of either of the little fingers be used for the key classification.
IMPORTANCE OF FINAL - The final and the key classifications may be considered the
CONTROL FINGERS for filing and searching. They limit the number of the prints
to be examined each group.
FINAL NOT POSSIBLE - If the type pattern of either little finger is an arch, as a tented
arch, no final classification is obtained. This is indicated by a small dash (-).
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 51
THE MAJOR AND KEY CLASSIFICATION

Major Classification, Defined - The major classification represents only the thumb of
each hand. It is the ridge count of the loop and/or the tracing of the whorl
appearing in the thumb of each hand (if such whorls appear).
POSITION - The major classification is placed immediately to the left of the primary in
the classification formula.
RIGHT AND LEFT THUMBS: NUMERATOR AND DENOMINATOR - The thumb of the
right hand appears in the classification formula as the numerator, and the thumb of
the left hand as the denominator.
SYMBOL FOR MAJOR CLASSIFICATION - The major classification is written with
specific symbols, which indicates the respective patterns of the thumb as being
either whorls or loops.
RIDGE TRACING OR RIDGE COUNTING - These symbols are governed by the ridge
tracing for whorls or the ridge counts for the loops.
SYMBOLS FOR LOOPS: S (small) in loops (ridge count); M (medium) in loops (ridge
count); L (large) in loops (ridge count).
LOOPS PATTERN IN BOTH THUMBS - In a set of prints having loop patterns in both
hands, the ridge count of the left thumb governs the symbol for the right thumb.

Left thumb ridge count Right thumb ridge count

1 to 11 SMALL (S) 1 to 11 SMALL (S)


12 TO 16 MEDIUM (M)
17 or more LARGE (L)

12 TO 16 MEDIUM (M) 1 to 11 SMALL (S)


12 TO 16 MEDIUM (M)
17 or more LARGE (L)

17 or more LARGE (L) 1 to 17 SMALL (S)


18 TO 22 MEDIUM (M)
23 or more LARGE (L)

EITHER THUMB MISSING - When the thumb is missing, the missing one acquires the
same pattern, ridge count, or ridge tracing as the thumb of the opposite hand. On
this assumption, the classification proceeds as usual. Since the left thumb, real or
assumed, is the denominator, it governs the classification, filing and searching.
GROUPING THE PRINTS - Because specific symbols have been given for loops and
others for whorls appearing on the thumb, the prints are grouped according to their
respective patterns.
SEQUENCEFOR MAJOR - The filing for prints follows definite within each group.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 52


DENOMINATOR GOVERNS THE SEQUENCE - As in all other groups, the
denominator governs the sequence and remains unchanged until the numerator
has exhausted the entire sequence.
SEQUENCE FOR LOOPS - Since the loops in the thumbs are indicated as small (S),
medium (M), and large (L), the sequence is as follows:
NUMERATOR SML SML SML
DENOMINATOR SSS SSS SSS

SEQUENCE FOR WHORLS - For the whorls in the thumbs indicated as Inner (I),
meeting (M), and outer (O), the sequence is as follows:
NUMERATOR IMO IMO IMO
DENOMINATOR III III III

LOOP AND WHORL IN MAJOR - When the whorl appears in one thumb and a loop in
the other, a specific sequence is used.
REFERENCE: ONE THUMB MISSING - Although a classification was obtained for one
missing thumb, (as described above), it is necessary to continue the search in all
possible references. The original pattern of the missing thumb might be different
from the thumb of the opposite hand.
BOTH THUMBS MISSING - If both thumbs are missing, they arbitrarily acquire the
classification of meeting whorls, and no other reference searches are necessary.
No major classification is obtainable if one thumb pattern is plain arch or tented
arch. Such print will pertain to the small letter group (referring to the secondary
classification).
RADIAL LOOP ON EITHER OR BOTH THUMBS - The major classification is obtained
if a radial loop is present on either or both thumbs because a ridge count is
possible. However, the print will be filed with the small letter group.

THE KEY CLASSIFICATION


Key Classification, Defined - The key classification represents the ridge count of
the right first loop appearing in a set of prints, beginning with the thumb of the right
hand but excluding the little finger.
Little Fingers Disregarded - The little fingers are totally disregarded in obtaining a key
classification, for they are exclusively used in the final classification.
POSITION OF KEY - The key, no matter where it is found is always written at the
extreme left of the numerator.
IMPORTANCE OF THE KEY AND FINAL - The key and final maybe considered the
control figures for filing and searching. To limit the number of prints, it is
necessary to examine within a group.

N.B. All answers obtained must be put/placed on the numerator of the key
classification.

K. WRITE THE KEY AT THE LEFT OF THE ENTIRE FORMULA, PRECEDING ALL
OTHER COMPONENTS OF THE CLASSIFICATION FORMJLA
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 53
LITTLE FINGERS NOT USED - If not used, the little fingers (regardless of their type
patterns or ridge count) as shown by the key for which they represent, are
reserved for the final.
KEY NO LOOPS - Make ridge count of whorl appearing in the thumb of the right at the
extreme left delta. This may be used as a key.
KEY NOT POSSIBLE - If the entire set of prints is composed of plain arches and
tented arches, the key cannot be obtained.

XI. CLASIFICATION OF SCARRED PATTERNS, AMPUTATIONS AND FINGERS


MISSING AT BIRTH AND BANDAGED OR UNPRINTED FINGERS

CLASSIFICATION OF SCARRED PATTERNS


Emphasis should be placed upon the necessity for fully referencing all scarred
patterns. In connection with their proper classification, the following rules should be
observed:
When an impression is so scarred that neither the general type of pattern nor the
ridge tracing or count can be determined with reasonable accuracy, the impression
should be given both the general type value and the sub classification value of the
corresponding finger of the other hand.
When an impression is partially scarred, i.e. large scars about the core so that
the general type cannot be determined with reasonable accuracy, but the ridges allow
reasonably accurate sub classification by ridge tracings or counting, the impression
should be given the primary value of the pattern of the corresponding finger and the sub
classification value as indicated by ridges of partially scarred impressions.
When an impression is partially scarred and the general type of pattern can be
determined with reasonable accuracy, but the ridges cannot be traced or counted so as
to fall within the proper sub secondary classification, the impression should be given the
ridge count or tracing value of the corresponding finger of the other hand, if the
corresponding finger is of the same general type. The scarred impression should be
given the probable value and reference to all other possibilities.
When an impression is so scarred that neither the general type of pattern nor the
ridge tracing or count can be determined with reasonable accuracy, and it so happens
that the corresponding finger of the other hand is similarly scarred, corresponding finger
of the other hand is similarly scarred, both patterns are given the arbitrary value of
whorls with meeting tracings.

CLASSIFICATION OF AMPUTATIONS AND FINGERS MISSING AT BIRTH


When one or more amputations appear upon a fingerprint card, it may be filed
separately from those having no amputations in order to facilitate searching. It is to be
noted that before it may be filed in the amputating group, the card must contain a
definite and unequivocal statement or marking by the contributor to the effect that a
certain finger or fingers have been amputated but which in reality were merely injured
and bandaged when previous prints were submitted.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 54
1. If one finger is amputated, it is given a classification identical with that of the
opposite finger, including pattern and ridge count, or tracing, and referenced to
every other possible classification.
2. If two or more fingers are amputated, they are given classifications identical with
the fingers opposite, with no additional references.
3. If two amputated fingers are opposite each other, both are given the classification
of whorls with meeting tracings.

When a fingerprint card bearing a notation of fingers missing at birth is classified,


the missing fingers should be treated as amputations in that they are given the identical
classifications in that they are given the identical classifications of the opposite fingers
and are filed in the amputation group. As these fingers are missing from a prenatal
cause, they would bane always receive the identical classification of the opposite finger
on any previous occasion.
If all 10 fingers are amputated or missing at birth, the classification will be:
M 32 W MMM.
M 32 W MMM

If both hands are amputated or missing at birth, the footprints should be taken as
they, too, bear friction ridges with definite patterns. A footprints file is maintained by the
FBI for identification purposes in instances where the subject has all fingers amputated
or missing at birth.
Partially amputated fingers often present very complex problems and careful
consideration should be given to them. The question often arises as to the appropriate
groups in which they should be filed, i.e., amputations or non amputations. As no
definite rule may be applied, it is a matter of experience and judgment as to their
preferred classification.
In those instances in which a partially amputated finger has half or more than half
of the pattern area missing, it is given the classification of the opposite finger. It will be
filed in the amputation group under those conducted in all possible classifications of the
opposite fingers only and are governed by the rules concerning amputations.
Generally, a “tip amputation,” or one which has less than half of the first joint
amputated, will always be printed in the future. Therefore, a partially amputated finger,
with less than half of the pattern area missing is classified as it appears and is
referenced to the opposite finger. It will be field in the non amputation group and
reference searches should be conducted under the classification of the opposite finger,
and in the amputation group. It must be referenced this way even though it never could
have originally had the classification of the opposite finger.

CLASSIFICATION OF BANDAGED OR UNPRINTED FINGERS - If fingers are injured


to the extent that it is impossible to secure inked impressions by special inking devices,
the unprinted fingers are given classification identical with the classifications of the
finger opposite. If only one finger is lacking, reference searches should be conducted in
every possible classification. If more than one finger is lacking, they should be given
the classification of the opposite fingers, but no be given the classification of the
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 55
opposite fingers, but no reference searches should be conducted. If there are two
lacking, opposite each other, they should be classified as whorls with meeting racings.
If, however, in the case of an injured finger, observation is made of the ridges of
the finger itself and indicated on the print, this classification should be, insofar as it is
possible, utilized. For example, a missing impression labeled “ulnar loop of about 8
counts” by the individual taking the prints, should be searched in the sub-secondary as
both I and 0 but should not be referenced as a pattern other than a loop. If the finger is
used as the final, or key, it should be searched enough counts on each side of 8 to
allow for possible error in the counting by the contributor using his naked eye.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 56


Unit 7- COLLECTION, PRESERVATION, DOCUMENTATION, IDENTIFICATION
AND COURT PRESENTATION OF FINGERPRINT EVIDENCE

EVIDENCE PRESERVATION OF CHANCE FINGERPRINTS


1. Whenever scene fingerprints have been found, confirmation by a witness shall be
made prior to collection.
2. Whenever scene fingerprints have been found, they shall be developed and
photographed prior to collection in order to clarify the position of an object and
positions of fingerprint impressions. Picture taking shall be made by providing the
fingerprinted object with a label containing the name of incident, date and hour
taken, place, witnesses, signatures, collector’s affiliation and name, etc.
3. Whenever fingerprints are collected by lifting (printing0 then the grain of wood,
pattern, or other characteristics original to the object near the fingerprints shall be
lifted at the same time with lifting tape, etc. to clarify the place where the
fingerprints are impressed. In addition, the name of incident, date and hour
collected, object of collection, place of collection, signature of witness, and
collector’s affiliation and name shall also be entered on the back of the lifting paper.

 A scene fingerprint collection report shall be prepared to clarify the relationship


between the incident and the place of collection.
 On the scene fingerprints collection report, all scene fingerprints collected
should be numbered in serial order, and be entered so as to clarify which
fingerprint was collected at which place by attaching a scene sketch.
 Meanwhile, for those fingerprints collected without taking photographs, it
necessary to clarify the impressed positions and directions by solidly
illustrating objects of collection portions thereof, etc.

PRESERVATION BY PHOTOGRAPHY - Prints found at the scene of a crime


preferably should be preserved by photography. This procedure has many advantages,
including its leaving the object intact so that further photographs can be taken if the first
are unsuccessful. It also makes it easier to produce the evidence before a court of law
if the print has been recorded since parts of the object that carry the print will be seen in
the picture.

PRESERVATION OF PLASTIC FINGERPINTS - When a fingerprint has been


left in material that has hardened or is able to withstand transport, and when it is on an
object that is small and easily transportable, it may be sent directly to the crime
laboratory. If removing the plastic print poses some special problem, it should be
photographed using oblique light to bring out as much detail as possible. The
fingerprint impression may then be preserved by an appropriate casting material.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 57


PRESERVATION WITH FINGERPINT LIFTERS - Frequently, curved surfaces,
such as doorknobs, with latent fingerprints present are difficult to photograph or do not
lend themselves to the use of cellophane lifting tape. For such surfaces, elastic or
rubber lifter material works well. Rubber lifters are commercially available items made
of thin, rubbery material coated with an adhesive. The adhesive is protected by a
transparent celluloid material removed prior to use and replace onto with different
fingerprint powders.

PRESERVATION WITH FINGERPINT LIFTING TAPE - The most common method of


collecting latent fingerprint evidence today is by special transparent cellophane tape.
The material is supplied in rolls and is usually 1 or 2 inches wide. After the surface is
dusted with fingerprint powder, the tape is placed over the print. Care must be taken to
prevent any air pockets. The tape is smoothed down over the print with the aid of a
signer and then drawn off. Particles of fingerprint powder adhere to the sticky surface of
the tape and thereby transfer the fingerprint pattern. The tape is finally placed onto a
card of suitable color, contrasting with the powder used.

HOW LONG DOES A FINGERPRINT REMAIN ON AN OBJECT? - Plastic prints


remain for any length of time provided that the object on which they are left or the
substance in which they are formed is itself stable. In investigations, it sometimes
happens that police officers find fingerprints that give the impression of having been
made in dust, but on closer examination are found to be dust-filled plastic prints in oil
paint made years earlier.
Prints that have resulted from contaminated with blood, pigments, ink, and oil are
more resistant and can be kept for a long time under favorable conditions. Latent prints
on glass china, and other smooth objects can remain for years if they are in a well-
protected location. On objects in the open air, a print can be developed several months
after it is made. Fingerprints on paper are very stable and will last for years provided
the paper does not become wet and deteriorate.

THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON THE POSSIBILITY OF DEVELOPING


FINGERPRINTS
When objects on which there may be fingerprints are found outdoors in ice or
snow, they must be thawed slowly and placed so that the thawed water does not run
over and destroy the prints. A suitable method of treating is to scrape away as much
snow and ice as possible, with the greatest care, before the object is brought to a warm
place. Only when the object is dry should the print be developed.
When plastic fingerprints are present in oil or grease, the thawing must be
allowed to proceed slowly and under close scrutiny since the print may easily be
destroyed by heat. Such prints should be photographed when they appear.
Damp objects should be dried in a room at ordinary room temperature. As a
general rule, never examine cold objects, especially metal, until they have been kept for
at least some hours at room temperature. In indoor investigations in a cold house, the
rooms should first be heated. The heating should be done slowly so that water from
thawing does not run off frosted objects of places.
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 58
IDENTIFICATION OF FINGERPRINT - The identification of a fingerprint is to compare
two fingerprints with each other, to indicate their characteristics, and to determine
whether they match or do not.
Since latent fingerprints are often partial and unclear, their identification often
encounters difficulties. Therefore, those who are engaged in identification should make
a correct identification. This also applies to the identification of palm prints, middle
phalange prints, basic phalange prints and footprints.

METHOD OF IDENTIFICATION - Method of identification include those for comparing


characteristics (type and position) of friction ridges, of sweat pores (sweat gland outlets
appearing on friction ridges like eyes of needles) and of friction ridge edges (straight,
projecting, arch, pocket, table, etc.). In general, however, a method by characteristics
of friction ridge which are understandable easily and objectively is used.

EXAMINATION OF MATERIALS - In identification, the following matters should b


examined with the identification material:
1. Conditions of collection (method of collection, situation of both the object
impressed and the fingerprint left on the scene, time elapsed, etc.).
2. Kind of pattern, position impressed.
3. Kind of finger.
4. Situation of impression (whether slipped, twisted, duplicated or not; either surface
or true skin; and reversal fingerprint).

COMPARISON AND POINTING-OUT OF CHARACTERISTICS - Characteristics of a


latent fingerprint and of the formally impressed fingerprint shall be compared, and
matching points of characteristics shall both be noted by indication lines with numbers
for referencing. The indication lines and numbers shall be entered in red.

LETTER OF IDENTIFICATION - A letter of identification shall be prepared bye entering


therein such necessary matters as the kind (latent fingerprints, finger seal, formally
impressed fingerprints, or so) and number of pieces of identification material,
identification item, identification process, identification result, identification date and
identifier.
Meanwhile, in general, a photograph showing the identification material enlarged
three times is attached indicating on the photograph matching characteristics by
indication lines and numbers for easy comprehension.

ELECTRONIC IDENTIFICATION OF FINGERPIRNTS - The computer has greatly


affected how fingerprints can be taken. An automated fingerprint identification system
(AFIS) can digitize fingerprint information to produce inkless fingerprints. Latent
fingerprints are scanned and converted into an electronic image that is stored in a data
base for rapid retrieval.
The live-scan method of fingerprinting, stores and transmits fingerprints digitally.
The new method allows police to place a suspect’s finger on a glass plate, which is then
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 59
read by a special device to produce a digital image of the prints. The image can then
be transmitted over telephone lines to computerized criminal records centers.
Laser fingerprinting eliminates the mess of inked fingerprints and also many of
the problems associated with them.

Fingerprint evidence is maintained by:


1. For laboratory examination:
Recording made upon receipt of:
A. Name of agency requesting for scientific assistance or submitting
latent print.
B. Date or receipt.
C. Inventory of latent fingerprint evidence.
2. For field laboratory work:
It is maintained by following the procedures below:
A. Crime scene search for latent.
B. Develop the print by developing materials.
C. Photograph developed prints by powder on original.
D. Lifting latent prints.

Further maintenance is done by lifting the number of fingerprint evidence,


their descriptions, quantity and quality.

COURT PRESENTATION OF FINGERPRINT EVIDENCE


In testifying to fingerprint identification, the expert often prepares charts to
visually aid the court and jury in understanding the nature of his testimony. Many times
it is undoubtedly difficult for the laymen to perceive, from a vocal explanation alone, the
full import of an expert’s testimony, due to its technical nature; consequently, some
graphic representation of the facts presented is amply justified and rewarded.

The preparation of the charts is ultimately the sole responsibility of the expert
using them. As matter of interest to law enforcement personnel engaged in fingerprint
work, a brief explanation of such charts follows, along with suggestions and remarks
based on long experience in these mattes.

Aside from the photographic equipment, the needed materials are:


A roll of scotch photographic tape -1 inch wide to outline the areas of the
fingerprints on the negative to be used: some stiff cardboard approximately 1/32 inch
thick on which to mount the prepared charts, a tube of rubber cement and a bottle of
translucent ink, other than black or white.
A light-box on which to view the negatives while blocking, and a lettering set to
draw the lines and numbers uniformly on the charts, while not absolutely essential, are
helpful conveniences. A light-box is basically a frosted pane of glass with a light
beneath it to produce soft, even, none glaring illumination. If no light-box is available, a
clear window may be utilized in “blocking” the negatives.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 60


If the expert finds it necessary to have an outside source prepare his
photographs, he should retain personal custody of the evidence during the operation.
The original latent print and inked print with which it is identical can be photographed 25
times the actual size. This procedure eliminates guesswork in enlarging both the same
degree. Whatever areas of the two prints are deemed requisite to illustrate the method
of identification are then outlined (blocked) on subsequent enlargements.
Generally, if the legible area of the latent print is small, it is well to show the
complete print. If the area is large, however, as in a palm print, an area which will not
make the chart too bulky or unwieldy may be selected.
In blocking, the negative is affixed to the window pane or light-box by means of
strips of photographic tape across the corners, with the side to be blocked up. This
prevents constant shifting of the negative while it is prepared. The latent print should be
blocked first. Corners of the blocked areas should be square.
If the latent print was developed or photographed as a light print on a dark
background, a reverse-color negative should be prepared and blocked in order that both
print may appear as black ridges on light. This is done by placing the original negative
adjacent to a new sheet of film and exposing it. The resultant negative contains the
same image as the original except that the color of the image has been reversed.
If the negative is a photograph of an opaque lift the print appears in reverse
position; that is, as a mirror image, and the negative will accordingly have to be blocked
from the dull or emulsion side in order for it to appear in a position comparable to that of
the inked prints. Failure to present the prints in question in the same color and position
may confuse the observer and nullify the purpose for which the chart is made.
The degree of enlargement is not important in itself so long as the ridge of the
latent print is readily distinguishable by the eye. Ten diameters have been found
adequate, although any enlargement from 5 to 30 will serve. It should be remembered
however that small enlargements are difficult to see a few feet away and that large ones
lose some of the contrast between ridges and background. A white border of at least 1
½ inches or a width equal to one-third the enlarged area should be left for charting
purposes.
All of the ridge characteristics are ample to illustrate for, identification, but it is
neither claimed nor implied that this number is required. All fingerprint identifications
are made by observing that two impressions have the ridge characteristics of similar
shapes which occupy the same relative positions in the patterns.
Method involving super imposition of the prints are not recommended because
such a procedure is possible only in a very few instanced, due to the distortion of ridges
in most prints through pressure and twisting. Such a procedure is not necessarily a test
of identity. Likewise, presenting charts with the shapes of the characteristic drawn in
the margin is not recommended. Individual ridge characteristics may vary slightly in
actual shape or physical position due to twisting, pressure, incomplete inking condition
of latent print when developed, powder adhering to background etc.
Identifications are based on a number of characteristics viewed in a unit
relationship and not on the microscopic appearances of single characteristic.
The chart will present a clearer, nearer and more pleasing appearance if it is
numbered clockwise and the numbers are evenly spaced. It is necessary however, to
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 61
place the numbers evenly around the photograph. Ordinarily, the numbers are placed
on three sides and the type of print (latent or ink) noted at the bottom. In any case, the
manner of numbering should be subservient to an explanation of the characteristics in
an orderly sequence; and, if the situation warrants all of the points may be illustrated on
a single side of the photograph.
A single line should be drawn from each characteristic to a numbered point on
the march. Care should be taken to draw the beyond it or obscuring it. Erasures should
be avoided. If the ink runs or blots, it is sometimes possible to remove it with a cloth in
denatured alcohol, without damaging the photograph.
If the enlargement is great, that is 25 or 30 diameters, it might be well to draw a
small circle around each characteristic and then draw the line from a circle to the
number, since the ridge will be much thicker than the illustrating line. All lines and
numbers should be checked for absolute accuracy. The expert should also study the
enlargements for apparent discrepancies in the prints, which he might be called upon to
explain. The chartered enlargements are readily mounted on stiff cardboard with rubber
cement, which may be purchased in small tubes. After cementing the photograph to the
cardboard, it should be placed under a heavy glut object which will cover the entire
surface to prevent wearing and wrinkling.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 62


RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 63
RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 64
Fingerprint Identification

Nova Scotia

Pre-historic picture writing of a hand with ridge patterns was discovered in Nova
Scotia.

In ancient Babylon, fingerprints were used on clay tablets for business


transactions.

In ancient China, thumb prints were found on clay seals.

In Peru, aerial photographs have exposed a huge ancient drawing which can
only be accurately viewed from the air. I have exhibited one of these photos to
the International Association for Identification and suggested it as a "possible"
fingerprint pattern.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 65


Aerial Photo in Peru & My Tracing (turned over)

In 14th century Persia, various official government papers had fingerprints


(impressions), and one government official, a doctor, observed that no two
fingerprints were exactly alike.

Marcello Malpighi - 1686


In 1686, Marcello Malpighi, a professor of anatomy at the University of Bologna,
noted in his treaties; ridges, spirals and loops in fingerprints. He made no
mention of their value as a tool for individual identification.
A layer of skin was named after him; "Malpighi" layer, which is approximately
1.8mm thick.

John Evangelist Purkinji - 1823

In 1923, John Evangelist Purkinji, a professor of anatomy at the University of


Breslau, published his thesis discussing 9 fingerprint patterns, but he too made
no mention of the value of fingerprints for personal identification.

Sir William Hershel - 1877

In 1856, Sir William Hershel, Chief Administrative Office, Bengal India, first used
fingerprints on native contracts.

Dr. Henry Faulds - 1880

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 66


In 1880, Dr. Henry Faulds, who was working in Tokyo, Japan, published an
article in the Scientific Journal, "Nautre" (nature). He discussed fingerprints as a
means of personal identification, and the use of printers ink as a method for
obtaining such fingerprints. He is also credited with the first fingerprint
identification of a greasy fingerprint left on an alcohol bottle.

Gilbert Thompson - 1882


In 1882, Gilbert Thompson of the U.S. Geological Survey in New Mexico, used
his own fingerprints on a document to prevent forgery. This is the first known use
of fingerprints in the United States.

Mark Twain (Samuel L. Clemens) - 1883


In Mark Twain's book, "Life on the Mississippi", a murderer was identified by the
use of fingerprint identification.
In a later book by Mark Twain, "Pudd'n Head Wilson", there was a dramatic court
trial on fingerprint identification. A more recent movie as made from this book.

Sir Francis Galton

During the 1880's, Sir Francis Galton, a British anthropologist and a cousin of
Charles Darwin, began his observations of fingerprints as a means of
identification. In 1892, he published his book, "Fingerprints", establishing the
individuality and permanence of fingerprints. The book included the first
classification system for fingerprints.

Galton identified the characteristics by which fingerprints can be identified. These


same characteristics (minutia) are basically still in use today, and are often
referred to as Galton's Details.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 67


Juan Vucetich

In 1891, Juan Vucetich, and Argentine Police Official, began the first fingerprint
files based on Galton pattern types. At first, Vucetich included the Bertillon
system with the files. (see Bertillon below)

In 1892, Juan Vucetich made the first criminal fingerprint identification. He was
able to identify a woman by the name of Rojas, who had murdered her two sons,
and cut her own throat in an attempt to place blame on another.

Her bloody print was left on a door post, proving her identity as the murderer.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 68


1901
Introduction of fingerprints for criminal identification in England and Wales, using
Galton's observations and revised by Sir Edward Richard Henry. Thus began the
Henry Classification System, used even today in all English speaking countries.

1902
First systematic use of fingerprints in the U.S. with the New York Civil Service
Commission for testing. Dr. Henry P. DeForrest, a pioneer in U.S. fingerprinting.

1903
The New York State Prison system began the first systematic use of fingerprints
in U.S. for criminals.

1904
The use of fingerprints began in Leavenworth State Penitentiary in Kansas, and
the St. Louis Police Department. They were assisted by a Sergeant from
Scotland Yard who had been on duty at the St. Louis Exposition guarding the
British Display.

1905
1905 saw the use of fingerprints for the U.S. Army. Two years later the U.S.
Navy, and was joined the next year by the Marine Corp.
During the next 25 years more and more law enforcement agencies join in the
use of fingerprints as a means of personal identification. Many of these agencies
began sending copies of their fingerprint cards to the National Bureau of Criminal
Identification, which was established by the International Association of Police
Chiefs.

It was in 1918 when Edmond Locard wrote that if 12 points (Galton's Details)
were the same between two fingerprints, it would suffice as a positive
identification. This is where the often quoted (12 points) originated. Be aware
though, there is "NO" required number of points necessary for an identification.
Some countries have set their own standards which do include a minimum
number of points, but not in the United States.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 69


THERE IS NO REQUIRED NUMBER OF POINTS NECESSARY

In 1924, an act of congress established the Identification Division of the F.B.I..


The National Bureau and Leavenworth consolidated to form the nucleus of the
F.B.I. fingerprint files.
By 1946, the F.B.I. had processed 100 million fingerprint cards.
And by 1971, 200 million.

Why Fingerprint Identification?


Fingerprints offer an infallible means of personal identification. That is the
essential explanation for their having supplanted other methods of establishing
the identities of criminals reluctant to admit previous arrests. Other personal
characteristics change - fingerprints do not.

In earlier civilizations, branding and even maiming were used to mark the
criminal for what he was. The thief was deprived of the hand which committed
the thievery. The Romans employed the tattoo needle to identify and prevent
desertion of mercenary soldiers.

More recently, law enforcement officers with extraordinary visual memories, so-
called "camera eyes," identified old offenders by sight. Photography lessened the
burden on memory but was not the answer to the criminal identification problem.
Personal appearances change.

Around 1870 a French anthropologist devised a system to measure and record


the dimensions of certain bony parts of the body. These measurements were
reduced to a formula which, theoretically, would apply only to one person and
would not change during his/her adult life.

This Bertillon System, named after its inventor, Alphonse Bertillon, was generally
accepted for thirty years. But it never recovered from the events of 1903, when a
man named Will West was sentenced to the U.S. Penitentiary at Leavenworth,
Kansas. You see, there was already a prisoner at the penitentiary at the time,
whose Bertillon measurements were nearly exact, and his name was William
West.

Upon an investigation, there were indeed two men. They looked exactly alike, but
were allegedly not related. Their names were Will and William West respectively.
Their Bertillon measurements were close enough to identify them as the same
person. However, a fingerprint comparison quickly and correctly identified them
as two different people.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 70


Will and William WEST

Fingerprinting:   A Lesson on Classification

Animal
kingdom                                                                                                                               
                                                                  OPA Home

Guiding Question: Can we invent a way to classify fingerprints?

Facts:

 The patterns of ridges on our finger pads are unique: no two individuals—even
identical twins—have fingerprints that are exactly alike.
 We leave impressions—or prints—of these patterns on everything we touch with
any pressure.
 The prints can be visible, as when our fingers are dirty or oily, or they can be
latent, as when they are made only by the sweat that is always present on our
finger ridges.
 Injuries such as burns or scrapes will not change the ridge structure: when new
skin grows in, the same pattern will come back.
 Dactyloscopy is the practice of using fingerprints to identify someone.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 71


Principles:

 Fingerprints can be classified by pattern types, by the size of those patterns, and
by the position of the patterns on the finger.

Skills:

 Observing
 Comparing and contrasting
 Classifying

Materials:

 3x5-inch index cards, at least two per participant


 pencils and a sharpener
 transparent tape; 3/4-inch is better than 1/2-inch
 good lighting
 hand magnifiers—nice to have but not essential

Introduction
If you want to use fingerprints to solve crimes, you must have a way to describe and
sort and find prints that are similar to the one you find at a crime scene. The FBI has
over 200 million prints on file; they can't look through every single one to find a match.

Today we are going to look at some of our fingerprints and see how we might sort them
into categories, just as fingerprint specialists do.

Activity:
 Divide into groups of 2

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 72


 Rub a pencil over the central part of an index card until it is covered with
graphite.
 Use the second card for recording your prints.  Write your name on the lined side
and turn it over.
 Your will be making prints of the index finger and the middle finger of the same
hand. Begin by asking who is right- or left-handed and  use that hand.
 Note: You want to make prints not of their fingertips but of the pads of their
fingers, near the joint crease, because that is where the most interesting patterns
are.
  To use the graphite pads, press and roll your finger firmly on the penciled area,
then stick a short piece of tape to the finger pad area, pressing down thoroughly,
remove the tape and press it onto your print record card.
 Immediately label your print "L" or "R" for left or right hand and "I" or "M" for index
or middle finger.
 Repeat procedure for the second finger. Do it over until you get two good prints.
 After all prints are made and labeled, compare your prints for similarities and
differences.  Record your results in your lab notebook
o Are the two prints from the same hand more alike than prints from different
people? How?  Record
o What are the positions of those patterns on the finger (how close they are
to the joint line)?  Record
o What kinds of patterns do they see?  Give names to the patterns (circles,
triangles, curvy lines)  Record
o In which direction do the loops curve—toward the thumb or toward the
pinkie finger? (Remember that taped prints are like looking at your finger
palm-up and inked prints are mirror images. It may be easier to ask
whether they curve toward the right or left of the card.)   Record
o Compare the size of those patterns (such as how many ridges make up a
loop).   Record
 After you have compared and named your prints, look at the handout with
examples of "official" names for patterns (loops, whorls, and arches).  Record the
official name of your prints in your Lab note book.
 Get with another Lab group and classify your prints according to the handout. 
Record
 Pass your prints to another group and see if they agree with your classification.
 Get the results from the other groups.  Which is the most common pattern? 
Make a bar graph of your results in your lab notebook.

Note that, while scars, such as the white line on one of the sample prints in this lesson,
are the easiest patterns to see, they cannot be used either for classification or
identification. They are not unique in the way that ridge patterns are, and they also
change over time—making them unreliable for these purposes.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 73


Evaluation:  Answer the following in your lab note book.

 How can fingerprints be classified?


 How would classification make it easier to match one print against a database of
many?

Federal Bureau of Investigation Educational Web Publication

FBI FINGERPRINTING IDENTIFICATION

For over 100 years, police agencies have had a powerful tool in combating crime. The
use of fingerprinting allows crime fighters an extremely accurate means of identification.
Other means of identification (such as hair color or style, weight, or eye color) may
change, but fingerprints do not.

In earlier civilizations, branding, tattooing, or even maiming was used to mark and
identify criminals. Although man had been aware of the fact that each person
possessed a unique set of ridges on the fingers and hands, the use of these prints for
criminal identification was not accepted until the early 1900s.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 74


The FBI Identification Division was born in 1924, with the receipt of 810,188 fingerprint
files, mostly from the Leavenworth Penitentiary. This collection became increasingly
important due to the emergence of criminals who regularly crossed state lines.

Currently, the FBI possesses over 250 million sets of fingerprint records. This enormous
collection is composed of both criminal and civil prints. The civil file includes the prints of
both government employees and applicants for federal jobs.

All standard fingerprint cards are eight-inch square


pieces of paper,with a thickness much like that of thin
cardboard. At the present time, the FBI receives over
34,000 fingerprint cards each work day. The above
photograph is an example of a standard FBI fingerprint
card.

If all of the fingerprint cards on file with the FBI were


piled on top of each other, they would equal one
hundred and thirty three stacks the size of the Empire
State Building!

Fingerprints differ from person to person based upon


distinctive patterns of ridges. There are seven different
finger print patterns used for identification purposes.

Automated Fingerprint Testing


The FBI is currently developing a fingerprint analysis system which will completely
replace the traditional fingerprint card. Known as the Integrated Automated Fingerprint
Identification System (IAFIS), the new program will provide electronic national fingerprint
checks without the use of fingerprint cards.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 75


Latent fingerprints are
difficult to see but can be
made visible for
examination.

Any fingerprint left at a crime


scene (as opposed to one
which is on a fingerprint
card) is known a latent
fingerprint. Latent
fingerprints may be left on
almost all surfaces,
sometimes even on human
skin. Numerous techniques
are used to make latent
prints visible, such as lasers,
powders, alternate light
sources, and a process
known as "glue fuming".

The West Case

For many years, scientists did not use fingerprinting as a serious tool for identifying
criminals. Instead, they used a system which recorded the dimensions of certain
skeletal body parts (known as the Bertillon System). But in 1903, Leavenworth Federal
Penitentiary received a prisoner by the name of Will West.

Shockingly, Will had almost the same Bertillon measurements (as well as appearance)
as another prisoner currently serving a life sentence for murder. But even though the
two unrelated criminals looked identical, and had similar names, their fingerprints were,
of course, different.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 76


Thanks to this remarkable case, fingerprinting became the standard for personal
identification. The two inmates are pictured above. Would you have determined the
difference?

Fingerprint Pattern Classification

The classification of fingerprints into distinct groups based on general similarities allows the
fingerprint examiner to search for an unidentified fingerprint within a specific section of the
fingerprint file rather than having to search the whole file.
There are numerous fingerprint classification systems in use throughout the world today. These
systems are all based on three fundamental ridge formations described by Purkinje, Galton,
Vucetich and Henry. They are the arch, the loop - radial and ulnar, and the whorl.

CLASSIFICATION PATTERNS

ARCH LOOP WHORL

IDENTIFICATION CHARACTERISTICS

RIDGE ENDING BIFURCATION DOT (or ISLAND)

Individuals generally have a mixture of pattern types on their fingertips, with some correlation
between the left and right hands. There is also evidence that the general fingerprint pattern may
be genetically determined. While the loop pattern is the most common pattern, classification of
individuals by assigning a pattern type to each of the ten fingers in an ordered fashion, serves as
a first line of differentiation, however, no such classification is likely to be unique.

TYPES OF FINGERPRINT PATTERNS

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 77


PLAIN ARCH TENTED ARCH PLAIN LOOP

PLAIN LOOP WHORL CENTRAL POCKET LOOP

LATERAL POCKET LOOP TWINNED LOOP ACCIDENTAL

Fingerprint Identification

Identification by fingerprints relies on pattern matching followed by the detection of certain


ridge characteristics, also so known as Galton details, points of identity, or minutiae, and the
comparison of the relative positions of these minutiae points with a reference print, usually an
inked impression of a suspect's print. There are three basic ridge characteristics, the ridge
ending, the bifurcation and the dot (or island).

Island Dot Bifurcation Ending Ridge

Identification points consist of bifurcations, ending ridges, dots, ridges and islands. A
single rolled fingerprint may have as many as 100 or more identification points that can
be used for identification purposes. There is no exact size requirement as the number

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 78


of points found on a fingerprint impression depend on the location of the print. As an
example the area immediately surrounding a delta will probably contain more points per
square millimetre than the area near the tip of the finger which tends to not have that
many points. 

In image 1 we see part of a fully rolled fingerprint. Notice that the


edges are cut-off so you can safely assume that this is not a fully
rolled impression. If you take a look at image 2 you can see that I
have sectioned out the centre portion of this impression and
labelled 10 points of identification. That was not all the points
found but simply the ones that could be mapped easily without
cluttering up the image.
1
 

Image 2 when measured 1:1 is just over 1/4" square. If you


look closely you should be able to identify 10 additional points
that were not mapped with the lines. In all I counted 22 points
of identification on this 1/4" square section of the impression.
One thing to note here, you might be under the impression
that making a fingerprint comparison is relatively easy but you
should keep in mind a couple things.

2 First, image 1 and image 2 are both taken from the same
image. In real life you would have impressions made at
separate times and subject to different pressure distortions. Secondly, these images are
relatively clean and clear where many of the actually crime scene prints are anything
but clear. Last you have to consider that this is an easy comparison because you are
blessed with having a core pattern and a delta when in some cases you may have a
latent that could be a fingertip, palm or even foot impression.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 79


Basic and composite ridge characteristics  (minutiae)
Minutiae Example Minutiae Example

ridge ending bridge

bifurcation double bifurcation

dot trifurcation

island (short opposed


ridge) bifurcations

lake (enclosure) ridge crossing

opposed
hook (spur) bifurcation/ridge
ending

Page Design © Ian Hunter.


Content © Christopher J Lennard BSc(hons), PhD and Trevor Patterson Det. Sen Sgt
New South Wales Police Service.

RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 80


RICO T. MUSONG, RC. Page 81

You might also like

pFad - Phonifier reborn

Pfad - The Proxy pFad of © 2024 Garber Painting. All rights reserved.

Note: This service is not intended for secure transactions such as banking, social media, email, or purchasing. Use at your own risk. We assume no liability whatsoever for broken pages.


Alternative Proxies:

Alternative Proxy

pFad Proxy

pFad v3 Proxy

pFad v4 Proxy