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Journal of Forensic Identification

FJI TOC Vol. 73 No.3 July-September 2023

Tables of Contents

Case Reports/Technical Notes

Recovering Fingerprints from Decomposing Human Remain Encased in Concrete

Michael T. Wiltsey, Tiffany Sheganoski, Ian Hood

This report explores a technique for extracting identifiable fingerprints from decomposed human remains that are trapped in concrete. It sheds light on the difficulties faced by forensic investigators in such situations. Various methods for retrieving fingerprints from decomposed bodies are mentioned.  

Applying Suitability Criteria to Past Latent Print Casework Analysis Mark-Ups

Ashley Fox

The article explores the use of suitability criteria as a quality assurance mechanism in the analysis of latent prints. The study investigates the application of a set of criteria to previous analyses conducted by seven examiners. These criteria specify the minimum number of discernible minutiae required for different types of impressions, as well as specific characteristics like focal points and distinct target data. The article proposes that while suitability criteria can serve as a quality assurance measure, the inclusion of a discretionary clause that allows for examiner judgment may be necessary in more complex cases.  

Articles

Fingerprint mark Development Techniques Before 1880. First Fingermark Development Techniques in History?

Sergi Claveria, Raquel Delgado

This article examines the early methods of fingerprint development used before 1880. It presents five techniques and provides biographical information on their discoverers: Paul-Jean Coulier, Pierre François Aubert, and Adrien Charpy. In the late 19th century, scientific articles by Henry Faulds and William James Herschel introduced fingerprint identification as a means of identifying repeat offenders. However, the article emphasizes that prior to this, several development techniques were already documented.  

Herman Welcker’s Contribution to the Study of Friction Ridge Persistency

Jason Merlo

The write-up discusses Hermann Welcker's contribution to the study of friction ridge persistency, a field related to fingerprint analysis for personal identification. The study began in the mid-19th century, but it lacked clarity about the first person to initiate persistency studies. The article reviews the works of William Herschel, Francis Galton, and Hermann Welcker, focusing on Welcker's lesser-known 1898 German-language publication.  

Organic Visualization Agents that Fluoresce Latent Fingerprints on Various Nonporous Substrates

Rachel Ashlyn Henderson

The research undertook to discover alternatives that are both safer and more environmentally friendly compared to traditional chemical-based fluorescent fingerprint powders. The study investigated ten organic white powders to determine their effectiveness in enhancing the visibility of fingerprints on different surfaces. This research indicates that it is possible to develop viable organic fluorescent fingerprint powders as a safer alternative.

The link below will take you to the International Association for Identification website where you can read the abstracts.

https://tinyurl.com/yeynk76d