Fundamentals of Fingerprint Analysis

Building on the success of the first Edition—the first pure textbook designed specifically for students on the subject—Fundamentals of Fingerprint Analysis, Second Edition provides an understanding of the historical background of fingerprint evidence, and follows it all the way through to illustrate how it is utilized in the courtroom. An essential learning tool for classes in fingerprinting and impression evidence—with each chapter building on the previous one using a pedagogical format—the book is divided into three sections. The first explains the history and theory of fingerprint analysis, fingerprint patterns and classification, and the concept of biometrics—the practice of using unique biological measurements or features to identify individuals. The second section discusses forensic light sources and physical and chemical processing methods. Section three covers fingerprint analysis with chapters on documentation, crime scene processing, fingerprint and palm print comparisons, and courtroom testimony. New coverage to this edition includes such topics as the biometrics and AFIS systems, physiology and embryology of fingerprint development in the womb, digital fingerprint record systems, new and emerging chemical reagents, varieties of fingerprint powders, and more. Fundamentals of Fingerprint Analysis, Second Edition stands as the most comprehensive introductory textbook on the market.