Forensic Science FingerprintingForensic science fingerprinting is a critical component of crime scene investigation and is used by various police agencies as early as the 19th century. Even today fingerprint identification stands out due to its superiority and reliability in identifying criminals. In spite of the vast advancement made in the field of DNA analysis, fingerprinting is still predominately used in identification. Fingerprint evidence not only allows investigators to prove an individual was at the crime scene but also ensure prints can be compared to millions stored in a computer database. The science of fingerprinting is very delicate and detailed. Prints can be compared by a computer or by trained professionals. In computer comparison, the computer is able to automatically record ridges, whorls and arches/loops in a single print. This is compared to a database of available prints and a list of matches is produced. The shortlist is then evaluated manually by investigators to identify matches. When computers are not used in comparison, the process becomes a very time consuming and slow process. It requires great skill and experience from the investigators. Investigators must compare manually the ridges, examine where they start, end, join and split. Points of similarity between prints are noted as they try to determine if the two patterns match. How to get into Forensic Science Fingerprinting? The best way to enter into this profession is to become a fingerprint specialist. As a fingerprint specialist you would lift, catalog and scrutinize fingerprints with the goal of identifying individuals. This type of training will teach you different ways of lifting and preserving fingerprints for identifications as well as how to decide which method to use (age and location of print). Matches and comparison of prints can be done manually using a microscope or utilizing computer comparisons. Fingerprint specialist usually work odd hours and are called to testify in court often. There is no single route to becoming a fingerprint specialist. You could obtain a degree in police science, criminal justice or forensic psychology. Every state has a set of regulations that govern training requirements – check with your local police department for more information.
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