General Patterns and Fingerprints

There are several different types or classifications of evidence. Each type of evidence may have different requirements or methodology for handling them at the scene for it to be properly identified, documented, processed, and admissible at trial.

Prior to beginning work on this discussion, please review the following:

• From the text:
  • Chapter 8: Pattern Evidence 1: General Patterns and Fingerprints
  • Chapter 9: Pattern Evidence 2: Firearms, Tool Marks and Document Analysis
• From the free, downloadable resource at the web page Crime Scene Investigation Guide (Links to an external site.):
  • Section D – Completing and Recording the Crime Scene Investigation
  • Section E – Crime Scene Equipment
• The articles:
  • An Automated Approach to the Classification of Impact Spatter and Cast-Off Bloodstain Patterns
  • Chemical Enhancement of Footwear Impressions in Blood Recovered from Cotton using Alginate Casts
• From the free PDF copy at the web page Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward (2009) (Links to an external site.):
  • Section 10. Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems
  • Section 11. Homeland Security and Forensic Science
• From the video Bodies, Blood, and Ballistics: Forensics School, Part One :
  • Segment 2. Forensics: Blood Spatter  02:35
  • Segment 5. Blood Spatter and Trajectories  04:35
• From the video Hands-On Police Work: Forensics School, Part Two :
  • Segment 3. Crime Scene Photography  02:27
  • Segment 6. How to Capture and Record Fingerprints  03:10
  • Segment 8. Crime Scene Documentation  03:18

You are also strongly encouraged to review the list of recommended resources, as they may assist you with this discussion forum and the The Difference Between Preliminary Field and Laboratory Testing assignment.

laboratory testing.

For students whose last names begin with

• A through G:
  • Identify the methods used in the identification of evidence (e.g., visual, black light, police dog, chemicals, electronics, etc.)
  • Describe at least three different methods involved in the identification of evidence.
  • Explain;
  • why these identification methods are appropriate for certain evidence but inappropriate for other types.
  •  how the identification methodology might affect laboratory testing.
  •  the requirements for the identification methodology related to admissibility of evidence at trial.
  • Each thread must also address health and safety issues at the scene and in handling evidence (e.g., explosives, drugs, biological, etc.)

    The instructor has the discretion to reassign students to an alternative category to ensure all topics are covered.

    The body of your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with examples from this week’s required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources and properly cite any references. Remember science is objective, not a matter of subjective opinions.