How To Dust For Latent Fingerprints

How To Dust For Latent Fingerprints


Dusting and Lifting Prints From Glass or Plastic


Making the Print
Make a quality thumb print on the glass or plastic surface.
Rubbing your thumb on your forehead and help ensure there are enough oils present
*Especially if you have just recently washed your hands
Goal is to press with moderate pressure in a linear/vertical motion.
Do not press to hard or roll/smear your print, remember you can also clean the area and try again.


Option 1: Using Magnetic Powder and Brush
Pick up a beard of magnetic dust while keeping the plunger of the brush pushed down.
Goal is to have it hang from the bottom of the brush
Gently brush the hanging dust particles over the latent print
Do not smear the print with either to much force or having the plastic brush come in contact with the print
Pick up loose and excessive dust and put back in original container


Option 2: Using Regular Dusting Powder and Brush
Dip a brush lightly into the container of powder and then tap off the extra on the lid.
Only a very small amount of powder is needed to dust the print.
Lightly swirl the brush over the print and rotate it between your thumb and fingers being careful not to smear the print.
Lastly, use the brush to remove any extra powder.



Lifting the Print
Acquire a piece of tape that is larger than the print
Start by sticking a portion near the print and then smooth it over the rest of the print ensuring consistent and even contact.
Slowly peal the tape off the surface and stick it to a clean and flat paper surface for inspection.



Link to Lecture Slides: drive.google.com/file/d/1g8nKtpKIWsPIdz2HJcnpaJ…

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