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Editorial Board
The Journal of Forensic Identification (ISSN 0895-173X) is the official publication of the
International Association for Identification and is devoted to publication of research and
information about Forensic Identification in its various disciplines. These include Friction
Ridge Skin Identification, Document Examination, Firearms Identification, Imprint Evidence,
Polygraph Examination, Forensic Photography and Electronic Imaging, Forensic Art, Voice
Identification and Acoustic Analysis, Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Reconstruction,
Blood Stain Pattern Identification, and Forensic Laboratory Analysis. Matters of interest in
other forensic disciplines, as well as Letters to the Editor, may also be published.
Copyright © 2000 by the International Association for Identification. All rights reserved.
Unless otherwise stated, noncommercial photocopying of editorial material is permitted
according to the policy listed on the last page of this issue. Editorial assistance in the
preparation of accepted manuscripts will be provided after the editorial review. Reviews of
manuscripts submitted for publication are normally completed within ten to fourteen months
from receipt of the complete manuscript submitted according to the format specified in the
instructions for submissions. Information for submissions can be found on the last two pages
of this issue. The International Association for Identification, the Editor and the Editorial
Board assume no responsibility for the statements and opinions advanced in this publication.
The Journal of Forensic Identification (USPS 256-280) is published bimonthly and is the
official publication of the International Association for Identification, with offices at 2535
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POSTMASTER: Send change of address to: Journal of Forensic Identification, 2535 Pilot
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Vol. 50, No. 1
January/February 2000
Table of Contents
Technical/Case Report
Schallamach Pattern on Shoe Outsole
Acknowledged by Court in Footwear
Identification (K. J. Deskiewicz) . . . . . . . .
Really Making an Impression (R. L. Hammer, Sr.)
Improving Contrast in Photographs of Latent
Fingerprints on Bottles (J. A. Levi) (A. Leifer) .
Obtaining Identifiable Fingerprints from
Mummified Hands: Two Quick and Accurate
Methods (J. D. Saviano) . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Article
Identification of Blood Prints on Fabric Using
Amido Black and Digital Enhancement
(P. Warrick) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Deep Red to Near Infrared (NIR) Fluorescence
on Gentian Violet-treated Latent Prints
(S. K. Bramble) (A. A. Cantu)
(R. S. Ramotowski) (J. S. Brennan) . . . . . . . 33
Book Review
Crime Science Methods of Forensic Detection
(reviewed by D. L. Bibby) . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Association Business/Announcements
Announcement and Call for Papers . . . . . . 55
Message from the Executive Secretary . . . . 56
1999-2000 IAl Appointments . . . . . . . . . . 58
Addenda
Upcoming Educational Opportunities . . . . . . 97
Job Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Golden Years (D. L. Grieve) . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Back to Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Instructions for Submissions . . . . . . . . . . 117
Case Report
Kevin J. Deskiewicz
Figure I
References
1. Schallamach, A., "Friction and Abrasion of Rubber”, Wear, 1(5), April
1958 (printed in the Netherlands).
2. Tart, M. S.; Adams, J.; Downey, A. J.; Goodyear, J. G.; Ohene, A.,
“Feathering, Transient Wear Features and Wear Pattern Analysis: A Study
of the Progressive Wear of Training Shoe Outsoles”, Information Bulletin
for Shoeprint/Toolmark Examiners, 4( 1),1998.
On the paper were two impressions of the front and the back of a
$100 bill. The sheet of paper had been tri-folded to fit inside the
envelope which brought both sides of the bill into contact with different
areas of the paper. Possible explanations as to why the impression was
there were discussed.
One was that the bill could have had some greasy or oily substance
on it when it came in contact with the paper, and that substance was
transferred to the paper allowing it to be developed with the physical
developer.
In the past, shoe and rubber glove impressions have been developed
with physical developer, but this is the first time an impression of this
type was developed in our laboratory. While the evidentiary value of
this impression may be slight, there is no question that a $100 bill had
been in contact with the sheet of paper at some time.
Joseph A. Levi
Amihud Leifer
Introduction
Glass bottles are important exhibits for fingerprint searching, espe-
cially when they are used for producing incendiary bombs [ 1]. The
method commonly employed in obtaining fingerprint impressions from
glass bottles is photography using oblique illumination. Photography is
employed before and after treatment. The fingerprint impression is
received from light scattered from the ridges. In this process, two
factors adversely affect the contrast in the photograph:
1. The absence of a dark background;
2. Reflection from the interior surface of the bottle.
This can be shown using the equation for reflected light for normal
(perpendicular) reflection [2]:
where n1 and n2 are indices of refraction of the bottle glass and the
bottle’s interior respectively and R is the reflection factor. At other
angles a more complex equation applies, however, in our case, the
reflection is close to normal. Assuming nl=lS and an empty bottle
(n2=1) we obtain R=0.04, for a filled bottle (assuming n2=1.33)
R=0.0036 - a reduction by a factor of 11!
Use of the black liquid method and comparison with the other meth-
ods is demonstrated in figure 1.
a. b. c.
Figure 1
The results of using this method and a comparison with those of the
two other methods are shown in figure 2. It is clear that the black liquid
method gives the highest visibility.
Joseph A. Levi
Photography Laboratory
Israel National Police
Jerusalem, Israel
972-2-530-9489
References
1. Shelef, R., et al, “Development of Latent Fingerprints from Incendiary
Bottles”, Journal of Forensic Identification, 46(5), 1996, pp 556-560.
2b
2c
Figure 2
Jeffrey D. Saviano
Introduction
Before attempting to identify the deceased through fingerprints, one
of the examiner’s first considerations is whether or not the body is
decomposed, and if so, to what extent. The condition of the hands of
the deceased varies as a result of both biological and environmental
factors. Dry heat, along with currents of air, will tend to prevent
bacterial decomposition (putrefaction). Instead, a body exposed to
such conditions will often become mummified [1]. The semi-arid cli-
mate of Colorado has presented the author with a number of opportuni-
ties to examine hands in which mummification has taken place.
Extreme care must be used during the cutting and scraping process
to guard against damage to the epidermal tissue. One slip of the scalpel
can easily result in obliterating important ridge detail. Because of this,
the cutting and scraping stage can be very time-consuming.
In an effort to soften the tissue prior to cutting, the fingers are often
soaked in either an emollient or a re-hydrating solution such as sodium
hydroxide or potassium hydroxide [2]. While this can make the cutting
easier in some cases, it also extends the time it takes to obtain identifi-
able fingerprints. The entire process can take days, or even weeks.
The procedure is quite simple. Once the finger has been removed
from the hand, it is placed onto a copy stand, pattern side up. It may be
0
e
Scale On Same Plane /
As Finger Surface ~~ + -= +.
-. --- - - - ~--- - a- Finger
Figure 1
Figure 2
The method involves the use of common modeling clay such as that
found in a craft store. Since the impression will be photographed, it is
best to use a clay of a medium color and shade such as gray or brown.
The examiner rolls a small amount of clay into a ball with his or her
hands. This helps to soften the clay slightly. The clay is then placed on
a firm, but movable surface such as a cutting board or a piece of
cardboard. The purpose of the movable surface is so that the clay can
be transferred to a position under a camera lens without damaging the
impression. The examiner then flattens the clay with a smooth object;
the side of a glass jar works well. Next, the finger is pressed into the
clay either straight down or as if rolling an inked print. The resulting
impression is then photographed (figure 3).
Journal of Forensic Identification
50 (1), 2000\ 17
Figure 3
Conclusion
The conventional methods of obtaining inked fingerprints from
mummified fingers can be tedious and time consuming. If the principal
purpose of these fingerprints - to identify the deceased - is kept in
mind, the examiner will not have to be preoccupied with producing the
clearest and best possible inked fingerprint. Alternative methods such
as photography of the finger and the modeling clay method allow the
identification to take place in much less time, thereby enabling the
examiner to be of greater assistance to the agencies and people in-
volved.
Jeffrey D. Saviano
Criminalist
Metro Forensic Laboratory
Police Operations Center
705 South Nevada
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 444-7750
References
1. Simpson, K.; Knight, B., Forensic Medicine, Edward Arnold (Publishers)
Ltd., London, 1989, p 14.
3. Cowger, J., Friction Ridge Skin, Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc.,
New York, 1983, p 32.
Patrick Warrick
Abstract: Blood prints were developed on cotton fabric using amido black and digital
enhancement and were ultimately identified to a suspect in a homicide case. The court
trial centered on the digitally enhanced latent fingerprint and palm print used for compar-
ison with the defendant. After the defendant was convicted for murder in the first degree,
his appeal was based on the contention the trial court erred in admitting the digitally
enhanced latent images after conducting a Frye hearing. The Washington State Court of
Appeals reviewed the case and affirmed the conviction.
Introduction
On Sunday morning, May 14, 1995, Dawn Fehring, a 27-year-old
student, was found dead on the bedroom floor of her Kirkland, Wash-
ington apartment. Her nude body was near the foot of her bed with a
T-shirt and the top bed sheet wrapped loosely around her head. Blood-
stains were visible on the carpet near her pelvic area and bloody hand
transfer marks were seen on the fitted bed sheet that was still on the
mattress. An autopsy revealed that Fehring died from mechanical as-
phyxia to include both smothering and strangulation sometime the pre-
vious Friday evening. The sources of the blood at the scene were two
tears to the victim’s hymen and some bleeding from the victim’s
mouth. Kirkland Police Detectives collected the fitted bed sheet for
examination.
The item was immersed in the working solution and agitated for
approximately 15 seconds. Because of the absorbency of the cotton
fabric, the entire item immediately took on a very dark blue/black
color. After being agitated, the item was held over the tray to allow the
excess solution to drain off, then it was immersed in the rinse solution
and agitated. After several seconds the excess dye began rinsing away.
There was so much working solution absorbed by the fabric, it became
necessary to replace the rinse solution with fresh methanol to remove
the remainder of the excess dye, The resulting ridge detail visible on
the fabric was quite amazing (figures 2,3,4).
After the rinse solution, the item was placed in a final rinse solution
to remove the methanol from the material and then allowed to air dry.
Based on the development of latents on the first piece of fabric, four
other sections were cut from the sheet for processing. Eventually, the
entire sheet was processed prior to trial.
Figure 3
Ridge formation was clearly visible on the fabric, but under magnifi-
cation, the detail needed to discern clear characteristics was hidden by
the weave of the fabric. King County latent examiners contacted the
Forensic Services Section of the Tacoma Police Department in an effort
to deal with the weave background of the fabric. Two sections of the
sheet that showed the most promise were taken to the Tacoma Police
Department for possible digital enhancement,
Digital Enhancement
Several images of ridge detail were captured using a Kodak DCS
420 color digital camera (figure 5). High angle tungsten illumination
was used to help eliminate shadows in the weave pattern. The images
were then acquired into a digital image tracking computer program
called MOREHITS™. The system encrypts sensitive case data that is
saved into the program. The image itself is not encrypted or altered in
any way.
To deal with the low contrast image specifically, several tools from
Adobe® Photoshop™ were utilized. The algorithms found under the
Image>Adjust submenu in Photoshop™ such as Levels, Curves, Color
Balance, Brightness/Contrast, and Variations all basically do the same
thing. They map the pixel ranges within the digital image and enable
the user to adjust those ranges [3], In this instance, the Curves function
was the main contrast adjustment tool used to measure and adjust the
tonal ranges of the ridge detail while leaving the background tones
unaffected. The finished images had good contrast between the ridge
detail and the muted background weave of the fabric.
Figure 6
Digital image after the weave pattern has been softened and
the contrast improved
Court proceedings
Trial court
On June 5, 1995, the State charged Eric Hayden with one count of
felony first degree murder. Specifically, it alleged that Hayden raped
Fehring, and in the course of committing that crime, caused her death.
Prior to trial, Hayden requested a hearing to determine the admissibility
of the print evidence identified by the use of enhanced digital imaging.
He argued that the digital enhancement was a novel scientific technique
and therefore did not meet the Frye standard [4]. Under the Frye test,
scientific evidence is admissible if it is generally accepted in the rele-
vant scientific community, but not allowed if there is significant dissen-
sion among qualified experts as to its validity. If the evidence in
question does not involve novel techniques or methods, it precludes the
need for a Frye hearing.
* - In December, 1995, a third latent was identified to Hayden after subsequent digital en-
hancement. However, due to trial date deadlines, this information was not presented in
court.
During trial, two King County latent examiners testified that they
had identified both a bloody palm print and fingerprint developed on
the victim’s bedsheet as having been made by the defendant. When
asked under cross-examination if the comparisons were based on the
prints actually found on the sheet or the digitally enhanced versions,
both examiners stated that the weave pattern made identifications to the
actual sheet extremely difficult if not impossible.
The appellate court reviewed the trial record and found that the
State’s arguments had merit. However, they also realized that no
Washington court, or any other court in a published opinion, had deter-
mined the admissibility of digitally enhanced prints with regards to the
Frye standard. With that in mind, the appellate court conducted another
Frye test to examine the question of whether the digital imaging process
was too novel and if it is generally accepted in the relevant scientific
community [5].
During trial, the State had argued that the unique application of an
accepted technology did not constitute a novel process and cited State
v. Noltie [6] for support. In Noltie, images of a child abuse victim’s sex
organs that were obtained using a colposcope were challenged. A
colposcope is a microscope developed and normally used to diagnose
cancer, and in the opinion of the court, basically a magnifying glass
with a long name. The appellate court concluded that the use of that
scientific technology was not novel, even though the application of that
technology in child abuse cases was relatively new; therefore, it was
not subject to the Frye test. Certainly digital imaging in general is not a
new process and even the average person understands and accepts
computer enhancement of photographs and video. More at issue in this
case was the question of acceptance of digital technology in the foren-
sic science community.
A case that has been adjudicated but not appealed to a higher court is
considered unpublished and cannot be cited to support evidence in
another case, however, unpublished cases can be used to show accepted
technology or practice by a profession. In Commonwealth of Virginia
v. Knight [7], a 22-year-old victim was found stabbed to death in
March, 1990. A faint bloody fingerprint was seen on a pillowcase
o f Forensic Identification
50 ( 1), 2000 \ 29
found next to the victim. The fabric was processed with DFO and some
ridge detail was developed. Because of the interference of the fabric
pattern, the latent print could not be identified. Investigators sent a
photograph of the DFO print to a private company for possible digital
enhancement. The process included the removal of the fabric pattern
from the background, which resulted in an identification to the suspect.
During the suppression hearing, the analyst from the private company
provided details of the enhancement process. After the demonstration
and supporting expert testimony, the court admitted the enhanced print
concluding that the process did not alter the characteristic arrangement
of the latent print.
The only published case that deals with a digitally enhanced amido
black print is Litaker v. Texas [8]. In that trial, a retired Army latent
print examiner testified that he had matched a digitally enhanced latent
print that had been developed with amido black to a known print.
However, the admissibility of the identification was not challenged and
the process was not discussed in detail by the court. The significance of
Litaker v. Texas is that it showed the combination of amido black and
digital enhancement was presented in at least one court as early as
1990.
Conclusion
The successful prosecution of Eric Hayden was the result of the
cooperation of three law enforcement agencies and the prosecutor’s
office. Agencies and personnel should not be limited to the confines of
their jurisdictions when sharing information and technology. This is
especially true as digital technology becomes more common in law
enforcement. The court demonstration of the enhancement methods
Acknowledgement
This author would like to thank Erik Berg of the Tacoma Police
Department and Dan Holshue of the Montana Department of Justice for
their work on this case and their input for this article.
Patrick Warrick
Latent Print Examiner
King County Sheriff’s Office
516 Third Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
(206)296-7446, Voice
(206)205-7898, Fax
patrick.warrick@metrokc.gov
References
1. Lee, H. C.; Gaensslen, R. E., Advances in Fingerprint Technology, CRC
Press, Ann Arbor, 1994, p 84.
2. Berg, E., “Digital Imaging Can Be a Powerful Tool in the Search for
Evidence, But in Court it is a Question of Admissibility”, FBI Digital
Imaging Seminarfor Law Enforcement, May 1997.
4. Frye v. United States, 293 F. 1013,34 A.L.R. 145 (D.C. Cir. 1923).
Simon K. Bramble1
Antonio A. Cantu2
Robert S. Ramotowski2
John S. Brennan1
Abstract: Until recently, the application of gentian violet to visualize latent prints on
adhesive and non-adhesive non-porous surfaces has been limited to observations in the
visible region. This paper reports the first study of gentian violet fluorescence with
respect to fingerprint enhancement since its deep red to near-infrared fluorescence char-
acteristics were first reported in the mid- 1980s. Fluorescence data has been used to
optimize a relatively inexpensive viewing system that can display and capture the deep
red to near-infrared fluorescence of gentian violet-treated latent prints. Due to the inher-
ently superior detection limits provided by fluorogenic reagents, this system allows the
visualization of not only prints on dark surfaces, but weakly developed prints on light
surfaces as well.
Introduction
Gentian violet (GV), a triphenylmethane dye also known as crystal
violet, has been used for many years as a biological stain. It has also
been used for a number of years in the law enforcement community as a
processing technique for the visualization of latent prints on both non-
sticky and sticky non-porous surfaces (e.g., adhesive tapes and, in some
’ - Home Office Forensic Science Service, Metropolitan Laboratory, 109 Lambeth Road,
London, SE1 7LP, UK
2 - United States Secret Service, 1800 G Street, NW, Suite 929, Washington, DC, 20223,
USA.
Because of the dark color imparted by the gentian violet stain, the
process initially had limited application with dark tapes. However, an
article by Wilson and McCloud offered a solution for obtaining gentian
violet development on black plastic tapes [11]. Application of this
technique involved several steps: immersing the black tape in the re-
agent for three minutes; applying a recently dampened piece of photo-
graphic paper (emulsion side) to both the adhesive and non-adhesive
side of the tape (after it had been rinsed and shaken free of excess
water) to form a “sandwich”; ironing both sides of the “sandwich” on
low heat; and finally separating the pieces and allowing them to dry
ci
ti
Figure I
Fluorescence studies
Based on the initial observations by Creer and Brennan [22] of the
near infrared fluorescence from GV-treated fingerprints in the region of
730-750 nm using the 514.5 nm line of an argon ion laser, a series of
fluorescence studies were undertaken. The first experiments deter-
mined concentration effects upon the observed fluorescence in solution
and the second investigated the fluorescence properties of GV treated
prints as a function of both reagent concentration and treatment meth-
odology. The purpose for obtaining the spectra was to determine the
optimum excitation and emission wavelengths for GV fluorescence
and, hence, the correct filter selection for a viewing system that would
optimize the deep red to near infrared luminescence images of treated
prints on both dark and light surfaces.
Solution spectroscopy
A dilution series of eight concentrations of GV was prepared be-
tween 5 x 10B6 M and 1.25 x 10B2 M in the solvent system used in
operational casework within the Forensic Science Service (10 g phenol:
560.0
EX
670.0 EM 770.0
Figure 2
Imaging System
To obtain images of the fluorescent gentian violet-treated prints on
tape, a high-resolution 8-bit Kodak Megaplus digital camera (resolution
was 2048 x 2048) model 4.2 was used. The excitation source was a
slide projector, which like all slide projectors contains a heat-absorbing
filter. The aforementioned spectroscopic data was used to select the
proper excitation and emission filters. The excitation filter (attached to
the slide projector lens) was a Coming blue-green filter no. 4-96 (spec-
100.0
411’
0.000
ml 400 600 800 1000
Figure 4
tral output is between 375-600 nm). The emission filter was a Kodak
Wratten filter no. 92 (approximate cut-on at 625 nm).
Figure 5
There are several other methods for viewing and recording these
images. If one has access to an infrared reflectance/infrared lumines-
cence (IRR/IRL) system for examining documents (e.g., VSC-l), this
system can also be used to detect GV fluorescence. Alternatively, a
relatively inexpensive system was also put together that produced good
results. A Sony Hyper HAD 0.1 Lux l/3” CCD camera with a Com-
putar 16 mm f/l .4 lens was used for viewing the samples. It is import-
ant to note that not all CCD/video cameras are sufficiently sensitive in
the near infrared. Ironically, less expensive cameras typically have
better sensitivity in this region.
The dye stain reacted strongly with oleic acid (up to the Co/4 dilu-
tion showed visible purple color) and phosphatidylethanolamine (up to
the Co/64 dilution showed purple color). However, when the GV-
treated acetate sheet was viewed using the system shown in figure 7,
virtually all of the spots were visibly fluorescent up to the most dilute
concentration.
Figure 8 shows images of the spot test sheet imaged and captured
with the Kodak digital camera and Kodak printer. Figure 8a is a visible
image and figure 8b is a deep red/near infrared image, using the same
excitation and emission parameters mentioned previously. This indi-
cates that although weak latent prints processed with gentian violet may
not produce a visible colored reaction, they may still be visualized
using fluorescence in the deep red to near infrared region.
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.5
-ti
0.4
03
0.2
0.1
0.0
500 700 800 1000
Wmfel@ (Ilm)
Figure 6
Discussion
The solution spectroscopy experiments showed that the lowest con-
centration produced the highest fluorescence signal and the concen-
trated (working solution) produced the largest red shift in fluorescence.
In practical operational terms it would be preferable to work with the
latter solution and observe visible prints prior to observing fluores-
cence. The solid phase experiments determined that staining with the
weaker solutions produced a higher fluorescence yield from latent
prints, but a similar result could also be obtained with the working
solution by subsequently washing the prints with an appropriate sol-
vent. This method provides the best of both worlds in that if it does not
provide satisfactory visual results of adequate contrast after initial treat-
ment with the working solution, simply washing the print in the appro-
priate solvent and viewing any fluorescence from the print may then
provide the necessary image contrast. A great advantage of this method
is that the original image can be recovered, if required, by simply
repeating the treatment with the working GV solution, It is recom-
mended that an initial search be carried out for fluorescing prints before
washing the item with solvent and to image any fluorescence observed
at this stage,
Conclusion
Although gentian violet has been used for many years as a dye stain
for producing purple-colored prints, reports of the deep red to near
infrared fluorescence of gentian violet-treated prints have been a rela-
tively recent observation. This work has built on this initial observation
through the systematic examination of GV fluorescence properties and
produced a more reliable procedure for obtaining such fluorescence
from latent prints. To aid the method, a relatively inexpensive system
for viewing this fluorescence was developed using commercially avail-
able off-the-shelf items, thereby providing the latent print examiner
with a complete system for detecting prints on traditionally difficult
surfaces such as dark sticky tape. This system gives better images of
W-treated mints on dark surfaces than visible or conventional photo-
8b
Figure 8
graphic images and does not require any modifications (e.g., the addi-
tion of fluorescent substances) to the gentian violet reagent, Finally, it
should be emphasized that weakly developed gentian violet prints,
which do not produce a visible reaction, may still be visualized through
fluorescence by using the system described here.
or
References
1. [Chemical] Formulas and Processing Guide for Developing Latent Prints,
Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laboratory Division, Latent Fingerprint
Section, 1995, p 29.
7. “Gentian violet (4254)“, The Merck Index, 10th edition, ed. Martha
Windholz, 1983, pp 627-628.
14. Kobus, H. J.; Warrener, R. N.; Stoilovic, M., “Two Simple Staining
Procedures Which Improve the Contrast and Ridge Detail of Fingerprints
Developed with “Super Glue” (Cyanoacrylate Ester)“, Forensic Science
International, 23(2/3), 1983, pp 233-240.
15. Stitt, W., “New Use for Gentian Violet”, Journal of Forensic Identifica-
tion, 47(3), 1997, pp 274-5.
17. Gray, M. L., “Sticky-side Powder Versus Gentian Violet: The Search for
the Superior Method for Processing the Sticky Side of Adhesive Tape”,
Journal of Forensic Identification, 46(3), 1996, pp 268-272.
18. Saunders, G. C.; Cantu, A. A.; Burns, C. D.; Seifert, D. C.; Johnson, J. L.,
“Multimetal Deposition Technique for Latent Fingerprint Development”,
unpublished manuscript, 1990.
22. Creer, K. E.; Brennan, J. S., “The Work of the Serious Crimes Unit”,
Proceedings of the International Forensic Symposium on Latent Prints.
FBI Academy, Quantico. VA, 1987, p 96.
I found the text extremely well written and easy to read. The first
chapter gave a good background on forensic science that was easy to
understand and was quite interesting. The definition of terms, normally
a boring and confusing task, was done with great skill.
This book will appeal to the average reader who simply wants more
information so that he can follow and understand the rash of television
shows on different forensic topics. It would also prove interesting to
the forensic specialist who wants to know a little more about what the
rest of the laboratory specialists are doing.
In addition, I feel that the text may fill another important void. As
an instructor teaching forensic science in the law enforcement program
at a community college, I have been frustrated at the lack of a good
general text. I am currently using the same text that is used in four-year
institutions for science students going into forensic science as a profes-
sion. It is an excellent text, but is often above the capability of my stu-
dents. Many instructors, including myself, use it simply because that is
all there is. This text would be excellent for students going into law
Daniel L. Bibby
Forensic Scientist
Miami Valley Regional Crime Laboratory
Dayton, OH
Curtis M. Shane
Educational Program Planner
1193 West Shore Drive
Blythe Island
Brunswick, GA 3 1523-9697
Happy New Year..!! It doesn’t seem possible that we’re into the year
2000. Although I’m writing this in November of 1999 in order to meet
publishing deadlines, I hope our JFI publisher is Y2K compliant or you
may not be reading this for a long, long time!! !
All information for the 2000 Membership Directory was sent to the
printer on November 16, 1999. Members often make corrections to
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along with any updated information were not received before Novem-
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changes received before that date were incorporated into the member
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Please remember to notify the IAI office if you move, change em-
ployers, phone or fax numbers, e-mail addresses, etc. A quick e-mail,
fax or phone message is all it takes to keep your information up to date
and will allow IAI information to reach you in a timely manner.
IAI president Ann Punter and I are planning to attend the AAFS
meeting in Reno, Nevada, during the last week of February. That will
continue the past practice of exchange of delegates between the IAI and
the AAFS to foster cooperation and assistance in matters of mutual
interest. The AAFS continues to develop its initiative to accredit certi-
fying organizations, a matter of vital interest to the IAI and its certifica-
tion programs. A few months ago, a detailed update of this proposal
was sent to members of the Board of Directors for perusal and study. It
appears that sometime during 2000, the board will need to make a
decision whether to participate in this program to accredit certifying
organizations. The aim of the proposal is to recognize legitimate, com-
petency based certification programs and distinguish those from pro-
grams which grant certifications on a simple “fee basis”. This will be a
major board decision, the outcome of which cannot be predicted at this
time.
Joe Polski
Executive Secretary
Subcommittees
Forensic Art
Billy Aiken, Columbia, SC, Chair
Karen Taylor, Austin, TX, Vice-Chair
Diana Cullington, West London, Great Britain
Mike Deal, Altamonte Springs, FL
Betty Pat. Gatliff, Norman, OK
Roy Paschal, Columbia, SC
Cam Pye, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Michael Streed, Corona, CA
Forensic Identification
50 ( 1), 2000 \ 59
Forensic Laboratory Analysis
John Fischer, Orlando, FL, Chair
Deborah Fischer, Orlando, FL, Vice-Chair
Mamdouh J. Al Sharifi, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Kostadin Bobev, Sofia, Bulgaria
Antonio A. Cantu, Washington, DC
Dr. Erich P. Junger, Warrenton, VA
Gregory Laskowski, Bakersfield, CA
Ernst P. Martin, Basel, Switzerland
Polygraph Examination
Everett Armour, Pawtucket, RI, Chair
James Davis, Emporia, KS, Vice-Chair
Michael Corwin, Waverly, OH
James Julius, Sioux City, IA
James New, Fayetteville, NC
Craig Wiggins, Concord, NH
AFZS
Peter T. Higgins, Washington, DC, Chair
Kenneth R. Moses, San Francisco, CA, Co-Chair
Wally Briefs, South Pasadena, CA
Lloyd Bunbury, RCMP
David Cotton, Tacoma, WA
Marilyn Downs, Los Angeles, CA
James Haluska, Anaheim, CA
Glenn McNeil, Tacoma, WA
Stephen B. Meagher, Washington, DC
Benjamin E. Moore, Washington, DC
Michael Powers, London, OH
International Aspects
Michael F. Car-rick, Salem, OR, Chair
John Archer, Victoria, BC, Canada
Gary Jackson, Santa Ana, CA
Kenneth Luff, Sidcup, Kent, Great Britain
Ulf Nordstrom, Stockholm, Sweden
William Roane, Moscow, TN
Richard Shire, Hanson, MA
Nominating Committee
James Gettemy, Tallahassee, FL, Chair
Mary Nolte, Chino, CA
Other Past Presidents in Attendance
Publications Committee
Robert Sanders, III, Wausau, WI, Chair
David Grieve, Carbondale, IL, Vice-Chair
Joseph P. Polski, Mendota Heights, MN
Lyla A. Thompson, Mission, KS 2000
Herbert F. Pendelton, Rutherford, NJ 2001
John Olenik, Fremont, OH 2002
Jeanne Sindt, Sacramento, CA 2003
Budget Committee
Richard Fahy, Second Vice President, Chair
Charles Illsley, Past-President
Frank Kendall, Member Board of Directors
Joseph P. Polski, Executive Secretary
Conference Planner
Candy Murray, Orlando, FL
Staff
Librarian
Kathleen Saviers, Salem, OR
Membership
Robert D. Davis, Jr., Chicago, IL, Chair
Frank Rogers, Phoenix, AZ, Co-Chair
Eugene Czarnecki, Des Moines, IA
Rebecca Daher, Santa Ana, CA
Michael Grimm, Roanoke, VA
Deborah Hewitt, Missoula, MT
Terry Kent, St. Albans, Great Britain
Publicity Committee
Mark Neal, South Charleston, WV, Chair
Walter Forst, Richmond, VA
David Grieve, Carbondale, IL
Charles Illsley, West Valley, UT
Wendy Lewis, Washington, DC
James Simms, Pikesville, MD
Vendor Liaison
Ann Punter, Ontario, CA
Overview Synopsis
1999 has been a progessive year for our discipline. Our Subcommit-
tee has made considerable efforts to expand our international appeal to
practicing forensic artists. You will see representatives from across the
world now serving on our Subcommittee. Overall there is a strong
spirit within the body of our membership. The educational progam for
this year features several speakers who will attract the crossover atten-
dance in our workshops Our complete operating expenditures for the
Subcommittee, outside of the conference, have been absorbed entirely
by our collective agencies for 1999. Our momentum as discipline has
made considerable gains. I attribute this to great efforts by many indi-
viduals on our subcommittee and our Certification Board.
2000 Outlook
Upon appointment, the year 2000 will be my third and last year of
service as Chair for the Forensic Art Subcommittee. One of our goals
in 1999 has met with success by the expansion of our discipline into the
international community. We have generated active membership re-
quests in Israel, Australia, Belgium and the United Kingdom. We are
very excited about our neighboring Forensic Artists and hope to con-
tinue our devoted outreach in this coming year. Communication with
Journal of Forensic Identification
70 / 50 (1), 2000
our members, our Certification Board, and the I.A.I. is paramount to
our success as an organization. Our hearts are committed to this goal
and I am very happy to see the positive attitudes and support from our
members.
Sincerely,
Billy Aiken, Chair
Forensic Art Subcommittee
The past year has been very challenging from several aspects. I was
elected as chairman for the 1999-2000 term. The certification board
needed a lot of energy poured into it. Our certification board for the
past several years has gone through some difficult times as far as
finding the cohesiveness to function and operate as a progressive unit.
Collectively the program has suffered from a lack of active participa-
tion. This is an issue we are committed to changing right away.
To encourage our growth we have for the first time offered certifica-
tion testing at our educational conference. There are two confirmed
applicants who will test in Milwaukee at this writing. In addition to this
type of access and promotion we are developing a new brochure spe-
cific to the advantages of certification for forensic artists. We benefited
from a donation of computer equipment that will allow us to produce
these and other color documents with no cost to our organization. The
FBI academy and other schools teaching forensic art have given their
support to distribute these certification brochures and IAI membership
applications at all of the forensic art classes.
I have shared many times that together we promote the oldest, larg-
est and most influential organization of scientific applications of study
in the world. The presence we each have and the contributions we
each make are the essence of a strong organization and discipline.
We are a team. And the structure of this team combining its workable
Thank you for allowing me to speak with such openness. You can
expect that from me on any issue. We welcome any suggestions you
have for our future together and we commit ourselves to its success.
Sincerely,
Billy Aiken, Chairman
Forensic Art Certification Board
Committee Members:
Don Ostermeyer - Chair
Michael Van Stratton
Carl Agner
Michael Block
Robin Bratton
William Dwenger
Jeffrey Gurvis
Michael Price
The subcommittee compiled much of its Milwaukee Educational
Program during the Little Rock Conference. During the year members
have worked with the instructors to compile a program of workshops
directed from the basic approaches to more advanced techniques. The
discipline will be offering workshops for attendees running two at a
time (or more) during the entire week.
Our subcommittee has again completed the scheduling task for the
upcoming conference without using any budget. The budget requests
for reimbursement from the Training Program Coordinator have been
kept at a minimum and many of the materials or supplies have been
donated.
1998 was the first year of a formal budget for the Certification
Board. Other than printing, we have yet needed any additional budget-
ary requests to support the certification process. We hope to be able to
continue the process with a minimum budget necessary.
Dondero Award
The Good of the Association Award was established by the IAI for
the purpose of recognizing any individual who, in the opinion and
judgment of the IAI’s Board of Directors, is deemed to have made an
“outstanding contribution to the Association” [IAI Operations Man-
ual]. Nomination eligibility is not limited to members of the Associa-
tion, however, but to any person who has contributed significantly to
furthering the goals, objectives and interests of the IAI.
Scholarships
Applicants for scholarship consideration must satisfy the following
requirements:
0
a full-time student with the intent of seeking a career in
forensic identification, and majoring in a natural, physical or
biological science;
Joseph P. Polski
Executive Secretary, IAI
2535 Pilot Knob Road, Suite 117
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
Research Grants
Certifications Awarded
August 2, 1999
Jardine, Jason
Minneapolis Police Dept.
Minneapolis, MN
Certifications Awarded
Streeter, James L.
Connecticut State Police
Meriden, CT
Scoppa, James N., Sr. 17088 Taylor, James E., Jr. 17131
Sergeant A C -FP A C -FP
Atlantic City Police Department Holyoke Police Department
27 15 Atlantic Avenue 220 Appleton St.
Atlantic City, NJ 08401- Holyoke, MA 01040-
USA USA
Recom’d by: John J. Mehic Recom’d by: Charles J. Walsh
December 1 l-15,2000
Investigative Photography II:
Advanced Techniques
Evanston, IL
contact: Registrar
Northwestern Universi tY
Traffic Insti tute
405 Church Street
Evanston, IL 60201
(800) 323-4011, Voice
(847) 491-5270, Fax
Duties: Classifies ten-print fingerprint cards utilizing the Henry and NCIC
classification methods. Enters fingerprint images from ten-print cards into the
AFIS database. Maintains manual and automated files for both ten-print cards
and latent print cards. Receives, evaluates and ensures completeness of Vir-
ginia State Police Central Criminal Record Exchange arrest documents. Ex-
amines and evaluates latent fingerprint/palmprint evidence, particularly the
more complex examinations and higher profile investigations. Compares la-
tent fingerprint to AFIS-generated list of known persons with criminal re-
cords. Position occasionally requires travel to other local jurisdictions.
Qualifications: Candidate must be a high school graduate or have a GED.
Candidate must have completed formal courses in basic fingerprint identifica-
tion, advanced latent fingerprint identification and administrative advanced
fingerprint identification conducted by the FBI or equivalent resource plus
eight years of experience in fingerprint identification including six years of
experience identifying latent prints. Preferred qualifications include, but are
not limited to, experience in the operation of AFIS in a law enforcement
environment, ideally systems manufactured by Printrak International, Inc. and
NEC; a thorough knowledge of the rules of evidence and legal procedures
common to court cases involving fingerprint identification; experience with
accurately classifying, searching and identifying fingerprints and the ability to
express facts and results of examinations clearly, concisely and objectively;
and considerable experience with the methods, techniques and equipment
used to take, develop and enlarge photographs.
In spite of the advance hyperbole, the arrival of the new year did not
bring an end to the world, nor even a major disruption to most people’s
lives, except, perhaps, for those who celebrated the evening prior with
excessive enthusiasm. The effects of the Y2K bug failed to bring a
catastrophic upheaval to a modern technological society as some had
predicted, and except for some minor mishaps, the day was rather
ordinary. In a world moving toward even more rapid communication
and faster access to endless sources of information, one constant re-
mains. Greater choices of what may be discovered does not necessarily
make for more accurate answers, and nothing reveals this more than the
vast amounts of misinformation about the next millennium.
Sunday, January 1,2000, simply marked the start of the final year in
the current millennium, not the first year of the next. The year 2000 is
not even the closure of the 19th century, just as 1900 was not its start.
Technically, both are centesimal years, those evenly divisible by 100,
and ordinarily centesimal years are ineligible for that extra day in
February reserved for leap years. But 2000 is that rare exception,
something 1900 was not, because it is also divisible by 400. That extra
day is added every 400 years to adjust for imperfections in the account-
ing procedures with which time is calculated. Mankind still struggles
to slice precise increments into the defiant rotations and revolutions of a
single wobbly planet that remains doggedly responsive to the physical
forces of the universe rather than to the compulsive behavior of its
inhabitants. In spite of the significance many wish to place on certain
dates or hours for predicting both doom and favor, the clock and calen-
dar exist solely as a human invention for human convenience.
Journal of Forensic I d e n t i f i c a t i o n
110/50(1),2000
characteristic of human behavior is its overwhelming desire to organize
and catalogue everything that is encountered, including the intervals
between events. The span of existence, whether in the endurance of a
particular life form or the durability of a geological structure, is de-
fined, at least in part, by its age. There are practical considerations to
measuring time, indeed, for time is a dimension just as is length, width
and depth. In doing so, there is no comfort in approximation. The
driving goal, it seems, is for greater and greater exactness.
The Julian calendar corrected many of the ills of its lunar predeces-
sors, but science is still only as accurate as the precision of its measure-
ments. Sosigenes, it seems, was slightly off on his calculations of the
England, still distant from Rome since the schism created by Henry
VIII and his unfulfilled determination for a male heir, finally came
around to accepting the new concept over a century later. In 1752, the
Gregorian calendar was instituted in the mother country and all its
many colonies, including those in North America. By then, the discrep-
ancy had increased to eleven days. British subjects, loyal and other-
wise, went to bed on September 2, 1752, and awoke the next morning
on September 14. Caught in this date warp was George Washington,
who thought he had been born on February 11, 173 1, only to discover
later that his birth date had been reset as February 22. Since no one
actually aged eleven days overnight, all significant past dates were
adjusted accordingly. To prevent confusion, dates stated according to
the Julian calendar were designed OS for old style, and those based on
Not all time is measured from the number one, however. Seconds,
minutes and hours behave properly, and birthdays and anniversaries
mark the completion of the noted year, not the beginning, so determina-
tion of span is a bit easier. Not content with merely counting the
intervening years, specific intervals were given special designation or
significance. For human existence, chronological age marks eligibility
to work, to drive, to marry, to vote or to retire based upon custom and
societal rules. In the case of wedding anniversaries, these have prolif-
erated to include symbols for numerous such remembrances. The most
noted are silver and gold, which are honored at 25 and 50 years, a
matter of simple addition. Alas, the same is not true for publications,
which chronicle their existence according to volume numbers. Since
periodicals do not begin with a volume zero, they, like calendar years,
convey a misleading indication of longevity.
This issue marks the start of the 50th volume prepared and distrib-
uted as the official publication of the International Association for
Identification. Beginning as the Identification News, then transformed
into the Journal of Forensic Identification, the publication does not
celebrate its golden anniversary, at least, not yet. That milestone must
wait until the actual arrival of the next millennium, approximately 365
days, 6 hours, 9 minutes and 9.5 seconds away, give or take a millisec-
ond. Yet, just as many revelers could not be deterred from a boisterous
heralding of that moment when a tick of the clock erased 1999 and
performed the dramatic change to 2000, the start of Volume 50 is still
such an auspicious event that even premature recognition seems appro-
priate.
The IAI has the distinction of being one of the oldest professional
organizations in existence. From humble beginnings, the IAI has man-
Journal of Forensic Identification
114 / 50 (1), 2000
aged to grow and thrive for the past 85 years because it has fulfilled a
need to those who toil in its many disciplines. From its current plat-
form dedicated to education, the IAI continues to be an excellent source
of information and training, and promises to perform that responsibility
even better in the future. For the last 49 years of its operation, the IAI
has continuously published and disseminated items of interest and ben-
efit to its members, making this one of the oldest professional publica-
tions around. That, in itself, is cause to take notice.
This editor begins his tenth year serving in that capacity, and what a
time it has been. Both the IAI and the JFI have grown during this span,
a correlation which may be related or may be due to society’s demands
for improved quality in this essential service. Whatever the connection,
this editor has enjoyed the opportunity to provide information that
enables readers to remain professionals in their chosen careers, and to
keep them informed about the activities of their Association. The task
has not been easy, but it has been rewarding.
So what if this is not the official golden anniversary of the JFI. . All
measurements of time are, after all, nothing more than artificial devices
which became standards because they are accepted as such. There is a
need for such things, just as there is a need for standards within the
professions and the people who represent them. Regardless of which
millennium the world is now in, new challenges lie ahead and some old
challenges remain, challenges far less dependent upon the measurement
of time than on the measurement of their substance. Based upon all
methods of measurement, the IAI and its official publication seem
destined to become involved. While celbrating the JFI’s golden anni-
versary may have to wait, these are, indeed, the golden years.
David L. Grieve
Editor