Advances in the Use of Latent Finger Marks

Abstract

The enhancement and visualization of latent finger marks deposited at the scene of a crime remains the most effective means of identifying an offender by forensic science and hence of solving the crime. In this chapter, we consider recent advances in the visualization of latent finger marks deposited as secretions of sweat and the implications of this on the recovery of other evidence types, such as DNA. We focus on deposits onto surfaces that are likely to be encountered by the pathologist at the crime scene or postmortem examination. These surfaces include fabric, leather, metal, and skin, some of which have traditionally been known to be problematic in enhancing finger mark deposits. Many of the techniques described here are developments of existing technology, while others are entirely new methods of enhancing and visualizing finger mark deposits. Finally, an overview of other recent advances in finger mark visualization is given.