Name:
KEY
Making a Match Practice #1
1. When using AFIS, who makes the final verification of the print’s identity? Why?
The computer can only analyze broad similarities and differences and will give you a list of
possible matches. It is up to the fingerprint analyst to make the final identification.
2. Describe the basic process used to “lift” a fingerprint using dusting powder. When should this
process be used?
You first apply a very small amount of dust to a soft brush. Then you apply to powder to the
object you think contains a print by using a sweeping motion or a circular motion. Then, you
place a piece of fingerprint tape over the print while pressing the tape from one side to another.
Then, you lift the tape and use the same method to place the tape on the fingerprint card to be
analyzed.
3. What are three different types of fingerprints? Give an example of each.
Visible prints: a print made when the finger deposits a visible material such as ink, dirt, or blood
onto a surface.
Plastic prints: a fingerprint impressed in a soft surface like dust or putty.
Latent print: a fingerprint made by the deposit of oils and sweat. It is not clearly visible to the
naked eye.
4. While searching a murder scene, you find the following items that you believe may contain
latent fingerprints. Indicate whether prints on each item should be developed using fingerprint
powder or chemicals.
a. A leather sofa
Chemical
b. A mirror
Powder
c. A painted wooden knife handle
Powder or Chemical
d. Blood soaked newspapers
Chemical
e. A revolver
Powder
5. For the following sets of prints, use a 12-point comparison to determine if the prints are a match
or not. Then, explain your reasoning.
Print 1
Print 2
Match or No Match? Why?
Match
Not a Match