MCCCD Program Description

Evidence Technology/Fingerprints

Course: AJS213

First Term: 2001 Fall

Lecture 3 Credit(s) 3 Period(s) 3 Load
Subject Type: Occupational
Load Formula: S

Description: Fingerprint identification, interpretation, and classification. The fundamentals of fingerprinting and the problems in developing latent prints, preservation of evidence and the chain of evidence

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Identify major characteristics of fingerprints, including type lines, deltas, and cores.(I) 2. Identify, describe and classify loops , arches, and whorls.(III-V) 3. Identify, describe and classify questionable fingerprint patterns.(VI) 4. Classify prints according to the Henry system.(VII) 5. Classify fingerprints according to National Crime Information Center(NCIC) policy.(VIII) 6. Take fingerprints using appropriate equipment and mechanical operations.(IX) 7. Use a variety of chemical methods to develop latents and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each method used.(X) 8. Use appropriate equipment and techniques to photograph latent prints.(XI) 9. Compare latent prints to a set of suspect`s prints.(XI) 10. Prepare a fingerprint identification chart for court.(XI)
MCCCD Official Course Competencies must be coordinated with the content outline so that each major point in the outline serves one or more competencies. MCCCD faculty retains authority in determining the pedagogical approach, methodology, content sequencing, and assessment metrics for student work. Please see individual course syllabi for additional information, including specific course requirements.

MCCCD Official Course Outline
I. Identification of Major Fingerprint Characteristics A. Type lines B. Deltas C. Cores II. Classification of Loops A. Major Characteristics 1. Delta 2. Sufficient Recurve 3. Ridge Count B. Radial/ulnar Loops III. Classification of Arches A. Plain Arches B. Tented Arches 1. Angular 2. Upthrust 3. Loop-type IV. Classification Procedures A. Loops B. Whorls C. Arches V. Referencing Patterns A. Tented Arches B. Whorls VI. Examination of Questionable Patterns A. Loops B. Whorls C. Arches VII. Henry System of Classification A. Primary B. Secondary C. Sub-secondary D. Major E. Final F. Key VIII. National Crime Information Center System(NCIC) of Classification A. Arches B. Loops C. Whorls D. Missing/Amputated Fingers E. Scarred/Mutilated Fingers IX. Taking Fingerprints A. Equipment B. Mechanical Operations C. Problems in Linking and Rolling D. Fingers of Deceased Persons X. Development of Latents A. Powders 1. Procedures 2. Advantages 3. Disadvantages B. Magna Brush 1. Procedures 2. Advantages 3. Disadvantages C. Iodine Fuming 1. Procedures 2. Advantages 3. Disadvantages D. Silver Nitrate 1. Procedures 2. Advantages 3. Disadvantages E. Ninhydrin 1. Procedures 2. Advantages 3. Disadvantages F. Miscellaneous Methods of Development 1. Procedures 2. Advantages 3. Disadvantages XI. Identification and Presentation Procedures A. Photography of Latents 1. Type of Camera 2. Lighting 3. Exposure 4. Filters 5. Background B. Process of Comparison 1. Class Characteristics 2. Individual Characteristics C. Preparation of Fingerprint Charts 1. Enlargement Process 2. Making exhibits D. Presentation of Evidence in Court 1. Admissibility 2. Chain of Custody 3. Competency to Testify 4. Courtroom Demeanor

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: 5/22/2001

All information published is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, but based on the dynamic nature of the curricular process, course and program information is subject to change in order to reflect the most current information available.