Three-Dimensional Imaging of Fingerprint Evidence

The uniqueness and individuality of fingerprints can be used to link individuals to a crime scene or to a specific object from the scene of a crime. Processing and latent print analysis/examination relies heavily on the eyes and physical examination by a trained professional. Historically the technology used or this research, TopMatch 3D scanning system, has been used exclusively for the imaging and analysis of cartridge case toolmarks. The purpose of this experiment is to determine whether the Cadre TopMatch 3D portable scanner is capable of imaging superglue processed latent fingerprints, in general. The experiment used five different subjects, with three varying fingerprint residue collection methods, across seven different substrates. Each image taken with the TopMatch 3D portable scanning system and then was scored on a scale of 0-5 in terms of quality for comparison. On average the images scored 1.82 across 315 samples which would be considered too low of a score for comparison if it were part of real case work. Scores varied depending on variables such as deposition condition, material for deposit, as well as the depositing subject. Though scoring low, some of the 3D images proved comparable to inked fingerprint cards as well as tradition fingerprint developing methods. While the TopMatch 3D scanning system has proven effective at imaging latent fingerprints there is still work to be done to produce consistent images of comparable quality.