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Autopsy Fingerprint Technique Using Fingerprint Powder.

Lee O Morgan1, Marty Johnson2, Jered B Cornelison1

  • 1Office of the Medical Examiner & the Department of Pathology, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI.

Journal of Forensic Sciences
|May 4, 2017
PubMed
Summary

This study presents a new, cost-effective method for collecting autopsy fingerprints using powder and adhesive labels. This technique improves print quality in challenging cases, aiding decedent identification.

Keywords:
autopsyfingerprintsforensic pathologyforensic scienceidentificationpostmortem

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Area of Science:

  • Forensic Science
  • Autopsy Procedures
  • Biometrics

Background:

  • High-quality fingerprint collection is crucial for decedent identification during forensic autopsies.
  • Traditional methods like ink and cards or digital scanners are commonly used but have limitations.
  • Challenges such as rigor mortis, skin slippage, and decomposition can compromise print quality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To introduce and evaluate an alternative method for collecting fingerprints during autopsies.
  • To provide a quick, easy, and cost-effective technique for forensic identification.
  • To improve the quality and ease of storage of autopsy fingerprints.

Main Methods:

  • The study proposes using fingerprint powder and adhesive labels for print collection.
  • This method involves applying powder to the digit or palm, then lifting with an adhesive label.
  • The adhesive label conforms to the surface, reducing smudging.

Main Results:

  • The novel method is quick, easy to perform, and cost-effective.
  • The adhesive label's conformability significantly reduces smudging in cases with decomposition or skin slippage.
  • Collected prints are suitable for hard-copy storage or digital scanning.

Conclusions:

  • The fingerprint powder and adhesive label method offers a viable, advantageous alternative for autopsy fingerprint collection.
  • This technique enhances the ability to obtain usable prints from decedents with postmortem changes.
  • Improved fingerprint collection methods contribute to more reliable decedent identification in forensic investigations.