7 ^th American Forensic Conference: R&D and Novel Technologies

Forensic Fingerprinting

Fingerprints can be left on almost any physical objects or surfaces and when left in the right conditions they can remain there for several years. Each fingerprint is unique to an individual and no two fingerprints have ever been found to be the same. Even identical twins who share similar DNA genetics will have different fingerprints. When analyzing fingerprints each contains patterns that allow them to be classified and distinguished from one and other. Common uses of fingerprint analysis are to help identify an unknown victim, witness, or suspect in a criminal investigation. Fingerprint analysis is also used to verify records and most importantly provide links between a suspect and a crime.