The Latent Print Unit analyzes latent prints. It compares them to known prints to identify or exclude individuals. Latent prints are impressions from the ridged skin, or friction ridges, on human fingers, palms, and soles.
This unit examines a variety of physical evidence. It uses the latest physical and chemical techniques to develop prints. The Latent Print Unit examines submitted photos and lifts. It uses enhancement filters to reveal the best detail in latent evidence. Latent Prints uses the ACE-V (analysis, comparison, evaluation, and verification) method to compare the latent print to known impressions. This unit also uses the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and the FBI’s Next Generation Identification (NGI) system. NGI replaced the IAFIS (Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System).
The Latent Print Unit approves the personnel who will use the local AFIS systems in police departments. The unit uses the latent print system to search for latent prints. These are from crime scenes or developed from submitted evidence. It searches against a national fingerprint database. Both the AFIS and NGI systems return a list of candidates. It includes their fingerprint images and other info for comparison. The Latent Print Unit uploads all unidentified latent prints to an Unsolved Latent File (ULF) in the NGI System.
In May 2013, the unit began the Latent Pre-screening Project. It reduced cases submitted for Latent Print exams by 11%. The investigating agency would submit a high-res image of a developed latent print from a crime scene. The unit would then determine if the print is suitable for further analysis. Sometimes, the high-res images are so good that we can make an NGI/AFIS entry.
In 2014, this pre-screening program resulted in hits being immediately reported in 17% of these cases. Due to the success of the pre-screening, the Latent Print Unit has now allowed electronic submission of evidence.