Forensic Fingerprint Analysis

CJ385: Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence Analysis

Discussion

Reply to each topic with 250 word minimum

1.       Current Issues-Research current events related to the course topics covered in Units 1 – 4 (Physical evidence, Forensic science services, Pryolysis, chromatography, and collecting trace evidence)and post at least 2 of these events to the Discussion Board. Within your posting, describe how your chosen items tie into a review of the course thus far. Be sure to use proper citation.

2.       The Microscope-The essential tool of the forensic

How can microscopes be used to identify and compare trace evidence?

3.       Baby Lindbergh-The baby Lindbergh kidnapping was considered the crime of the century in its day. This trial included the court presentation of critical scientific evidence. Discuss the importance of trace evidence and the microscope in the trial of Bruno Hauptmann.

Seminar

Write a 300 – 500 word paper on the Seminar topics

4.       During this Seminar we will discuss a current topic that deals with the issues related to this course. Please review the newspaper, watch the news, or search the internet for current issues or incidents, and bring at least one story to class to be discussed.

5.       The Modern Microscope-You have learned about the importance of trace evidence and the role that it plays in successful criminal investigation. Because it has been around so long, the microscope is a tool that is almost taken for granted. Consider why the microscope is so vital to the success of the modern criminalist, and also the possibility that we have relied on it so much that we have potentially overlooked other areas or instruments of science that might have enhanced our evolutional progress in scientific criminal investigation.

Assignment

Unit 6 Assignment: Analytical Techniques Essay

The scientific method emphasizes the use of precision, objectivity, critical thinking, careful observation, practice, repeatability, uncertainty management, and peer review, which enables the reliable collection, measurement and interpretation of clues in order to produce knowledge.

In 750- to 1,000- words, summarize how the scientific method governs the way forensic scientists conduct qualitative and quantitative analysis of physical evidence containing organic and inorganic matter. Include the following:

·        Explain the information gleaned by the forensic scientist in the process of conducting both qualitative and quantitative analysis of physical evidence.

·        Differentiate between organic matter and inorganic matter. (Each analytical technique used to examine organic and inorganic matter has its benefits and limitations.)

·        Provide examples of physical evidence containing organic matter and evidence containing inorganic matter.

·        Address the following questions:

o   What combination of analytical procedures would a forensic scientist use when identifying physical evidence to ensure that accurate and reliable scientific results are obtained? (The conclusions and opinions expressed by forensic scientists are subject to scrutiny through the judicial process.)

o   How would a forensic scientist defend his or her scientific conclusions and opinions in a court of law?

CJ328: Forensic Fingerprint Analysis

Discussion

Reply to each topic with 250 word minimum

1.       Current Topics-Please research some current events related to the course topics covered in Units 1–4(Epidermis, dermal skin layers, latent print residue, fingerprinting the deceased, visible, patent, latent prints, ridge events, daubert hearings, and the livescans systems) and post at least two of these events to the Discussion Board. Within your posting, describe how your chosen items tie into a review of the course thus far. Be sure to use proper citation.

2.       A Nonporous item-Give an example of a nonporous item and what method you would use to process it. Where might you expect to find this item at a crime scene?

3.       Cyanoacrylate-Cyanoacrylate is an excellent method for processing latent prints; however, the latent prints often lack contrast and require enhancement. What are some of the enhancement techniques used? Are there any health hazards associated with these techniques?

Seminar

Write a 300 – 500 word paper on the Seminar topics

1.       During this Seminar, you will discuss a current topic that deals with the issues related to this course. Please review the newspaper, watch the news, or search the Internet for current issues or incidents, and bring at least one story to class to be discussed.

2.       Superglue Fuming Safety Measures-This week in Seminar, you will be taking a comprehensive look at superglue fuming including safety measures, proper equipment, and enhancement techniques. When would the technique of superglue fuming be appropriate to use? What are the drawbacks of using superglue fuming techniques?

Assignment

Assignment 2: Fingerprint Processing

You will process a variety of porous and nonporous items for latent prints using black fingerprint powder or crushed charcoal.

Describe your experience in a 300–500-word essay, addressing the following questions:

·        How many different prints or partial prints did you locate?

·        What types of objects did you lift the prints from? Where were they located?

·        What supplies did you use? What technique did you use to apply the powder?

·        Did you expect to find more prints, or fewer?

·        Can you identify the prints as different from one another? How?

It is very important to pick a variety of different surfaces for this Assignment. Please attempt at least 5–10 different types of surfaces (porous and nonporous).

What are some types of surfaces that you would expect to find fingerprints on?

·        Microwave, oven, door knob, window, sliding-glass door, bathroom mirror, toilet seat, paper items around the house, cars, soda cans, bowls and dishes, glasses, etc.

Your paper should be longer than 300 words. Provide as many details about your successes and failures as you can.