THE UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO

College of Criminal Justice Education

BS Criminology

Physically Distanced but Academically Engaged

Self-Instructional Manual (SIM) for Self-Directed Learning (SDL)

Course/Subject: CRI 221/L- Personal Identification Techniques

Name of Teacher: CHERRYFE M. ESPAÑA, RCrim

THIS SIM/SDL MANUAL IS A DRAFT VERSION ONLY; NOT FOR

REPRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION OUTSIDE OF ITS INTENDED USE. THIS
IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE STUDENTS WHO ARE OFFICIALLY
ENROLLED IN THE COURSE/SUBJECT.
EXPECT REVISIONS OF THE MANUAL.
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Big Picture in Focus: ULO c. Apply basic procedures in

recording and filing fingerprint classification using
Henry’s system.

Metalanguage

For you to demonstrate ULO c, you will need to have an operational

understanding of the following terms below. Please note that you will also be required
to refer to the previous definitions found in ULOa and b section.

• AFIS – the Automated Fingerprint Identification System is a biometric

identification (ID) methodology that uses digital imaging technology to obtain,
store, and analyze fingerprint data. The AFIS was originally used by the U.S.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in criminal cases. Lately, it has gained
favor for general identification and fraud prevention.
• BLOCKING OUT – refers to the insertion on a fingerprint card the results of the
interpretation of all ten patterns. Represented by letters, symbols or numbers
on the card required for each of the rolled prints.
• CLASS CHARACTERISTIC – refers to those characteristics that can be
possessed by more than one print. The class characteristics of friction ridge
skin extend to many factors other than digit or palm, or toe or sole, and the
definable pattern type. Patterns of the same type, by definition, may appear
quite diverse.
• CLASSIFICATION – refers to the display of fingerprint records into groups or
subgroups for filing purposes. It is a formula derivative from a complete set of
ten fingerprint patterns.
• FILING – refers to the process of finding the proper place in the fingerprint file
where a certain set of print belong and placing it there.
• FILLING OUT – refers to entering on a fingerprint record card of all known
indispensable dat about a subject, except the fingerprints themselves.
• FINAL CLASSIFICATION – refers to the ridges count of the loop on the right
little finger.
• FINGERPRINT – refers to the reproduction on some smooth surface of the
design or pattern formed by the ridges on the inside of the end joint of a thumb
or finger.

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• FINGERPRINT CLASSIFICATION INDEX – refers to succession of guide

cards having tabs on which are lettered the numerous fingerprint classification
combination.
• MAJOR DIVISIONS – they are produced by the counting of loops and the
tracing of whorl type patterns emerging on the left and right thumbs.
• NON-NUMERICAL PATTERNS – refers to patterns mainly used in making up
primary classifications that are not given numerical values.
• NUMERICAL PATTERNS – these are patterns, which are assigned number
values depending on which fingers they appear when making up the primary
classification.
• PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION – derived through the use of numbers assigned
to certain types of fingerprint patterns. It is the foremost classification which
means the initial ―sorting‖ of sets fingerprints and acts as the keys to all
fingerprint classification and filing.
• REFERENCE CLASSIFICATION – a second choice classification from a set of
points having approximating or disputed patterns.
• SUBSECONDARY CLASSIFICATION – the ridge trace or ridge count symbols
of the patterns on the index, middle and ring fingers of both hands, whether all
three patterns are of they same type or not.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE

For the 6-7 weeks of this course, topics presented from this chapter were taken
from the approved references of the course. Please note that you are not limited to
exclusively refer to the resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books, research
articles and other resources that are available in the university’s library e.g. ebrary,
search.proquest.com etc.
1. The Classification Formula

At this point it is necessary to mention that when prints are classified, markings
are indicated at the bottom of each finger block to reflect the type. The following
symbols are used:

Under the Index Finger, the appropriate capital letters should be placed for every
pattern except the Ulnar Loop;

Under all other fingers, the appropriate letter should be placed for every pattern except
the ulnar loop and the whorl as follows:

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Arch . . . . . . . . . . . a
Tented Arch . . . . . t
Radial Loop . . . . . . r

Ulnar loops in any finger are designated by a diagonal line slanting in the direction of
the loop.

Whorls in any finger are designated by the letter “W”.

* The classification formula may be composed of the following divisions:

Primary 4) Major
Secondary 5) Final
Sub-secondary 6) Key

2. The positions in the classification line are illustrated as follows:

Key Major Primary Secondary Sub secondary Final

Div Class Class Class

20 M 32 U 101 10
L 32 W 000 9

Second Subsecondary
Classification

Key Major Primary Secondary Subsecondary Final

Div Class Class Class

SLM
SSL
20 M 32 U 101 10
L 32 W 000 9

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1. PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION – refers to the numerical value of whorls

Fingers No. 1 & 2 - - - - - - - - - - - 16

Fingers No. 3 & 4 - - - - - - - - - - - 8
Fingers No. 5 & 6 - - - - - - - - - - - 4
Fingers No. 7 & 8 - - - - - - - - - - - 2
Fingers No. 9 & 10 - - - - - - - - - - 1

Odd Fingers ( 1,3,5,7 & 9) contain the Denominator while

Even Fingers (2,4,6,8 & 10) contain the Numerator.

The summation of the numerical value of whorls plus the arbitrary count of one (1)
for consistency purposes. In the absence of whorl type of pattern the Primary
Classification shall be 1/1.

2. SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION

The Secondary classification appears just to the right of the fractional numerals,
which represents the Primary. It is shown in the formula by capital letters representing
the basic types of patterns appearing in the index fingers of each hand, the right hand
being the numerator and the left hand the denominator.

There are five (5) basic types of patterns, which can appear:

1. Arch - - - - - - - - - - - A
2. Tented Arch - - - - - - T
3. Radial Loop - - - - - - R
4. Ulnar Loop - - - - - - U
5. Whorl - - - - - - - - - - W, C, D, X

3. SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION (Small Letter group)

Prints with an arch or tented arch in any finger or a radial loop in any except the
index finger constitute the small letter group of the secondary classification. Such
“small-letters”, with the exception of those appearing in the index fingers, are brought
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up into the classification formula in their proper relative positions immediately adjacent
to the index fingers.

4. SUB-SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION – grouping of loops and whorls placed

just to the right of the secondary classification.. Only six fingers are involved, 2,3,4,7,8
and 9.

Ridge Count Index Finger Middle Finger Ring Finger

1 – 9 = Inner/”I” 1 – 10 = Inner/”I” 1 – 13 = Inner/”I”
10 or more = “O” 11 or more = “O” 14 or more = “O”

Ridge Tracing 3 ridges count or more = Inner or “I”

3 ridges count or more = Outer or “O”
2 ridges count inside or outside = Meeting or “M”

5. MAJOR DIVISION – is placed just left of the Primary Division.

CLASSIFICATION CHART

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RIGHT HAND
R THUMB R INDEX R MIDDLE R RING R LITTLE
When LEFT THUMB
is 16 OR less
1-11=S 1-9=I 1-10=I 1-13=I
12-16=M 10 or over=O 11 and over=O 14 and over=
17 and over=L RIDGE COUNT OF SECOND SUBSECONDARY

When LEFT THUMB

is 17 OR over
1-17=S 1-5=S 1-8=S 1-10=S
18-22=M 6-12=M 9-14=M 11-18=M
23 and over=L 13 and over=L 15 and over=L 19 nd over = L

LEFT HAND
L THUMB L INDEX L MIDDLE L RING L LITTLE

1-11=S
12-16=M VALUE SAME AS ABOVE
17 and over=L

TABLE FOR MAJOR DIVISIONS OF LOOPS

LEFT THUMB DENOMINATOR RIGHT THUMB NUMERATOR

1 to 11, inclusive S (Small) - - - - - - - - - 1 to 11 ridges count inclusive, S

12 to 16 ridges count inclusive, M
17 or more ridges count, L
12 to 16, inclusive, M (Medium) - - - - - - 1 to 11 ridges count inclusive, S
12 to 16 ridges count inclusive, M
17 or more ridges count, L

17 or more ridges, L (Large) - - - - - - - - - 1 to 17 ridges count inclusive, S

18 to 22 ridges count inclusive, M
23 or more ridges count, L

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6. FINAL DIVISION – The Final division is the ridge counts of the loop in the right little finger
and this is indicated at the extreme right of the numerator in the classification.

Rules:
➢ If a loop does not appear in the right little finger, a loop in the left little finger may be
used; it is written in the extreme right of the denominator
➢ If no loops appear, a whorl may be used.
o On the right hand, by counting the intervening ridges from left delta to the core
o On the left hand, by counting the intervening ridges from right delta to the core
➢ Double Loops, count the ridges from delta to the core of the upright loop or
O If the double loop is horizontal, the nearest core is used.

7. KEY DIVISION – It is obtained by counting the ridges of the first loop appearing on
the fingerprint card (beginning with the right thumb), exclusive of the little fingers, which are
never considered for the key as they are reserved for the final. The Key no matter where found,
is always placed to the extreme left of the numerator of the classification formula.

H. CLASSIFICATION OF SCARRED PATTERNS/AMPUTATION MISSING AT BIRTH

Rules:

1) When an impression is so scarred that neither the general type of pattern nor the ridge
tracing or count can be determined with reasonable accuracy, the impression should be given
both the general type value and the sub classification value of the corresponding finger of the
other hand;

2) When an impression is partially scarred, attempt to use ridge counting or tracing of the
impressions; otherwise refer to the corresponding finger of the other hand;

3) When both fingers are scarred, both patterns are given the arbitrary value of whorls with
meeting tracing.

➢ Classification of amputations and fingers missing at birth

o The purpose is to prevent the appearance on later cards of impressions of fingers

though to have been amputated but which in reality were merely injured and
bandaged when previous prints were submitted.

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o If one finger is amputated, it is given a classification identical with that of the opposite
finger, including the pattern and ridge count or tracing and referenced to every other
possible classification;
o If two or more fingers are amputated, they are given classifications identical with the
fingers opposite, with no additional references;
o If two amputated fingers are opposite each other, both are given the classification of
whorls with meeting tracings.
o If all ten (10) fingers are amputated or missing at birth, classification will be M32W
MMM. M32W MMM
o Partially amputated fingers shall be filed as amputations or non-amputations. As no
definite rule may be applied, it is a matter of experience and judgment as to their
preferred classification.

SELF-HELP. You can also refer to the sources below to help you further
understand the lesson:

TEXTBOOK: Revisa, W,A., et.al . (2015) Workbook on personal identification, Quezon City :
ChapterHouse Publishing

a. Badua, J,B. (2016), Dactyloscopy manual and workbook: outcomes based

education manual, Quezon City : ChapterHouse Publishing
b. Okuda, M. (2015), A hands-on introduction to forensic science : cracking the
case, Boca Raton : CRC Press
c. Villaluz, J,C. (2014), Instructional module on special crime investigation,
Quezon City :Wiseman's Books Trading
d. Osterburg, J, W. (2014) Criminal investigation : a method for reconstructing
the past, 7th, Amsterdam : Anderson Publishing is an imprint of Elsevier
e. Miller, M, T. (2014) Crime scene investigation laboratory manual, Amsterdam
: Academic Press
f. Hoover, J. (n.d) The Science of Fingerprint. Retrieved from
https://www.crime-sceneinvestigator.net/fbiscienceoffingerprints.html

LET’S CHECK!

Activity 1. MULTIPLE CHOICE. Choose the best answer.

1. The impressions in a pattern area where the ridges enter on one side of the impressions
and exit on the other side with a wave or rise in the center
a. Loops b. Arches c. Whorls d. Ridges e. All of them

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2. Its primary goal is the identification of fingerprints developed from the crime scene,
by assigning a formula consisting of letters and numbers is called:
a. Fingerprint Identification System c. Fingerprint Classification System
b. Fingerprint Comparison System d. Fingerprint Examination System

3. This division in a fingerprint classification derived from patterns, which are recorded
always in capital letters following strictly the identity of such impression is
a. Final Classification c. Primary Classification
b. Key Classification d. Major Classification

4. Under the Henry classification systems, it refers to the numerical value of all whorl
patterns in real prints is
a. Key b. Major c. Primary d. Secondary

5. Suppose the Right finger is a Central Pocket Loop Whorl with a ridge trace of two
(2), the right middle finger has a ridge count of ten (10) and the right ring finger has a
ridge count of 15; on the other hand the Left Index Finger is a Radial with a ridge
count of eight (8), the left middle finger has a ridge count of nine (9), the left ring
finger has a ridge count of three (3). What is now your Secondary and Sub-
Secondary Classifications?
a. W IMO b. W III c. C MOO d. W MMO
R OIO R OOO R IIO U OII

6. Bong Pong was arrested, when fingerprinted it turned out that all his fingers were
amputated, what would be his fingerprint classification
a. M 32 W MMM b. 32 W MMM c. W 32 A AAA
M 32 W MMM 32 W MMM W 32 A AAA
d. AMP 32 W MMM
AMP 32 W MMM

7. Whenever an island ridge is crossed by an imaginary line in the course of ridge

counting, the rule is it must be counted as
a. One ridge count b. Two ridges count c. Three ridges count
d. Four ridges count e. None of the above

8. Suppose the Right Thumb and the Right Index Finger are Radial Loops, the right
middle and right ring fingers are Plain Arches; on the other hand the Left Thumb and
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the Left Index Fingers are Tented Arches while the Left Middle and Ring Fingers are
Ulnar Loops. What is now your Secondary Classification?
a. r R a2 b. r R aa c. r R a2 d. R a2
tTu2 t T uu tT T u2

9. It portrays the Classification of the little fingers.

a. Primary b. Final c. Secondary d. Major

10. When one digit of the fingerprint is missing, classification of said missing digit will
be
a. Meeting Whorl c. Pattern follows the corresponding digit on the opposite
hand
b. Amputated Finger d. Pattern of the next digit immediately on its side

LET’S DO THIS!

Activity 1. Determine the fingerprint classification based on the given patterns

below:

9 M 11
/ A A C \
I 8 15
T W \ \ T

1. Key: _________

2.Major: __________

3.Primary: _________________ Classification: ----------------------------------------------

4.Secondary: _________________

5.Sub-secondary: __________

6.Final: ______

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IN A NUTSHELL

Activity 1. Write a reflection about the relevance of fingerprint classification in the

field of law enforcement.

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KEYWORDS INDEX. This section lists down the important keywords from this unit
that will help you to recall and review.

Fingerprint Primary
Henry System Secondary
Classification Classification
Sub-Secondary Classification
Key Classification Major Classification
Classification formula

Fingerprint M32W MMM.

Blocking Out Filing out M32W MMM
Classification Index

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Big Picture in Focus: ULO d. Discuss court rulings and

procedures in preservation and presentation of
fingerprint evidence in administration of justice

Metalanguage

For you to demonstrate ULO d, you will need to have an operational

understanding of the following terms below. Please note that you will also be required
to refer to the previous definitions found in ULOa, b, c section.

• CHAIN OF EVIDENCE – in court a person must be able to account every

minute of time the evidence has been in his or someone else’s hands or custody
from the time it was found at the scene of the crime until it is offered as an
exhibit in court.
• CRIME SCENE PROCEDURES – refers to sound, lawful or proper approach
in the manner of crime scene searches.
• EVIDENCE – The means sanctioned by the Rules of Court, of ascertaining in
a judicial proceeding the truth respecting a matter of fact. These include but are
not limited to documentary, testimonial, electronic and object evidence,
gathered in the course of the investigation.
• LAW OF MULTICIPLICITY OF EVIDENCE. The greater number of similarities
or dissimilarities; the greater is the probability for the conclusion to be correct.
• PHYSICAL EVIDENCE - Evidence addressed to the senses of the court that
are capable of being exhibited, examined, or viewed by the court. This includes
but not limited to fingerprints, body fluids, explosives, hazardous chemicals,
soil/burned debris, bombs, electronic parts used in the commission of the crime.
• PRINCIPLE OF INFALLIBILITY. That fingerprint is a reliable means of
personal identification and all courts accept and adopt fingerprint as a means
of personal identification

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE

For the 8-9 weeks of this course, topics presented from this chapter were taken
from the approved references of the course. Please note that you are not limited to
exclusively refer to the resources. Thus, you are expected to utilize other books, research
articles and other resources that are available in the university’s library e.g. ebrary,
search.proquest.com etc.

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I. TWO FIELDS OF FINGERPRINT STUDY

A. Classification – dividing the fingerprints by type and characteristics according to

their pattern and transforming them into a formula for easy filing and future reference.

B. Identification or Comparison

i. Procedures on Fingerprint Comparison and Identification

1. Preliminary Examination – sufficient ridge details

2. Examination Proper – comparison of Q and S
3. Photograph Examination – enlarged the prints

ii. Four (4) Requisites in Comparison of Friction Ridges

1. General Pattern Agreement – eight types of pattern

2. Qualitative Concordance – different ridge characteristics
3. Quantitative factors – sufficient number
4. Relationship of Ridge Details – location of the ridges

iii. Required Number of Congruent Ridge Details to Establish

Admissibility:
Philippines – 10-12 USA – 12-14 UK – 14-16

III. LEGALITY OF FINGERPRINTS

A. USA CASES

1. PEOPLE VS. JENNINGS, Illinois (1911). Illinois Appellate Court first

court to pass upon the admissibility of fingerprint as evidence.

-The US Supreme Court passed upon the admissibility of fingerprint

evidence stating that persons experience on the matter of fingerprint
identification may give their opinion; and further said, “there being no
question as to the accuracy or authenticity of the photographs on how
fingerprints were collected, the weight shall be given to the testimony of
experts and in issue thereto shall be resolved by the jury.”
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2. STATE VS. CERCIELLO, New Jersey (1914)

-The New Jersey Court of Errors and Appeals held that the fingerprints
found upon a hatchet near the body of a murdered person are admissible in
evidence. The evolution in practical affairs of life whereby the progressive
and scientific tenderness of the age are manifested in every other
department of human endeavor cannot be ignored in legal procedure. It is
for those scientific processes, which are the work of educated and skilled
men in their various departments, leaving the weight and effect entirely to
the consideration of the jury.

3. COMMONWEALTH VS. ALBRIGHT, 101 Pa Sup. CL 317 (1931)

A Fingerprint expert testified that the fingerprint on a piece of glass,

established to be from a pane in a door that had been broken to effect
entrance to the house was the same as the impression of the defendant’s
left index finger. The expert explained the details of the identity.

The court said, “ the papillary lines and marks on the fingers of every
man, woman and child posses an individual character different from those
any other persons and that identical characteristics is very remote.

B. PHILIPPINES

1. BILANGAWA VS. AMADOR, Court of Appeals No. 37320-b)

A Fingerprint Expert and constabulary Sergeant testified and
successfully defended fingerprint evidence based on eight (8) identical ridge
points.
2. PEOPLE VS. MEDINA (59 Phil. 330)
This is the first leading judicial decision in Philippines
Jurisprudence on the Science of Fingerprint. The Supreme Court held, “that
evidence as to the correspondence of fingerprints is admissible for the
purpose of identity. That although a portion of the impression on the box was
somewhat blurred, it did not seriously interfere with the comparison of the two
fingerprints. It is a settled rule that where the collection of evidence is not in
question, the admissibility is lodged with the court.

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IV. ADMISSIBILITY OF FINGERPRINT TESTIMONY

Settled is the rule, that fingerprint evidence has become a fixed part of our
system of jurisprudence. It has become relatively accurate in establishing personal
identity.

Query: Can fingerprints be effaced?

Ans. No, as long as the dermis of the bulbs of the fingers is not completely
destroyed, the fingerprints will always remain unchanged and indestructible.

Query: Can fingerprints be forged?

Ans.: There is a considerable controversy regarding the possibility of forging

fingerprints by burning them with acid or making a simulated impressions or a perfect
replica of impressions of the fingers. Various experiments conducted by authorities
and although they could almost make an accurate reproduction, still there is no case
on record known or had been written that forgery of fingerprints has been a complete
success. The introduction of modern scientific equipment, new techniques and up to
date knowledge in crime detection always foil the attempt.

Query: Are fingerprints inherited?

Answer: The general shape or overall pattern of fingers and palms can be inherited.
Family members will often have similar patterns or designs on the same fingers of
their hands. The tiny details in the fingerprints, ridges, however, ARE NOT inherited
and is different between all friction skin areas of all persons - - - even between twins.

V. REQUISITES AS BASIS FOR ABSOLUTE IDENTITY

There is NO national or international rule or laws that fix the number of ridge
characteristics that must be present in both the Questioned and Standard prints that
should be used as a basis for establishing absolute identity.

However, fingerprint experts in these countries believe that identity can be

established in lower number of guidelines laid down by the famous French
Criminologist, Dr. Edmond Locard.

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• Clearness of the pattern

• Rarity of the type
• Decipherable core and delta
• Presence of pores
• Perfect and clear identity of the width of ridges and furrows

It is a requirement that the examiner possess educational background, training,

experience and the ability to express in a skilled manner of explanation.

Query: CAN YOU FORCE A PERSON TO BE FINGERPRINTED?

Yes, provided the arrest was legal, this is to establish the true identity.

IV. WEIGHT OF FINGERPRINT

The weight to be given to evidence of correspondence of fingerprint when

offered to prove identity of the accused as the person committing a crime is for the
determination of the court in the light of all the surrounding facts and circumstances.

A slight blurring or imperfection of the fingerprint preventing positive

identification will not affect the sufficiency of such proof as to effect a conviction based
with the crime. To warrant conviction, the fingerprints corresponding to those of the
accused must have been found in the place where the crime has been committed.

Can Fingerprint be destroyed?

John Dillinger, a notorious gangster and a police character, attempted to erase

his fingerprints by burning them with acid but as time went by the ridges were again
restored to their “natural” feature. The acid he applied temporarily destroyed the
epidermis of the bulbs of his fingers but re occur later.

Locard and Witkowsji of Lyons, who performed rather painful experiments on

themselves by burning their fingertips with boiling water, hot oil and hot metal had
shown that after the healing of the epidermis (outer skin), the original patterns of
fingerprints reappeared.
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Can Fingerprints be forged?

The authorities conducted various experiments and although they could almost
make an accurate reproduction’s till there is no case on record known or have been
written that forgery of fingerprints has been a complete success.

VI. REASONS WHY FINGERPRINT IS ONE OF THE MOST INFALLIBLE MEANS

OF PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION

INFALLIBLE – means incapable of error

1) Fingerprints are already formed 3 to 4 months of intra-uterine life and

will remain unchanged through out life until decomposition of the body
sets
2) The patterns formed by the papillary ridges contains peculiar
characteristics upon which a person can always be identified
3) Almost every police and law enforcement agencies through out the
world accept, adopt and utilize the fingerprint system as a means of
absolute identification of a person
4) The court and other authorities had taken cognizance of its importance
and reliability as a means of identification.

VII. Court Decided Cases in the used of fingerprint as evidence

1. In 1911, an Illinois court, in the case of the People vs. Jennings (252 Ill. 534,
96NE 1077 (1911) ) pass upon the admissibility of fingerprint evidence.

2. In that case, fingerprint evidence was admitted as a means of identification may

give their opinions as to whether the fingerprints found at the scene of the crime
correspond with those of the accused. The court’s conclusion were based on
a comparison of the photographs of such prints with the impressions made by
the accused, there being no question as to the accuracy or authenticity of the
photographs. It was stated that the weight to be given to the testimony of
experts in the fingerprint identification is a question for the jury.

3. Following the Illinois case was one in New Jersey, State vs. Cerciello, in which
fingerprint evidence was permitted to be introduced.

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4. In the Cerciello Case, the defendant argued that it was an error to allow the
testimony by experts explaining the comparison of fingerprints obtained from
the defendant voluntarily with those fingerprints found upon a hatchet near the
body of the deceased when the body was discovered. The New Jersey Court
of Errors and Appeals held, “in principle, its admission as legal evidence is
based upon the theory that the evolution in practical affairs of life, whereby the
progressive and scientific tenderness of the age are manifested in every other
department of human endeavor, cannot be ignored in legal procedure.

5. In the case of State vs. Conners (87 N.T.L. 419, 94 Atl. 812 (1915) ) it was
held competent to show by a photograph the fingerprints upon the balcony post
of a house entered, without producing that post in court, and to show by expert
testimony hat the fingerprints found on the post were similar to the fingerprints
of the defendant.

6. In the case of Lamble vs. State (Lamble V. State, 96 N. T. L. 231; 114 ATL.
(N.J.) 346 (1921) ) which involved the discovery of fingerprints on the door of
an automobile, the court was of the opinion that it was not necessary to produce
the door as an evidence. The court stated that a photograph of the fingerprints
noted on the door should be sufficient along with the identification of the
fingerprints by an expert to show these of the defendant. The court referred the
case of States V. Conners (Supra).

7. In the case of Commonwealth vs. Albright, (101 Pa. Sup. C.L. 317 (1931) )
a fingerprint expert testified that the fingerprint on a piece of glass, establish to
be from a pane in a door that had been broken to effect entrance to the house
was the same as the impression of the defendant’s left index finger and he
explained in detail the points of identity which led him to that judgment. The
court stated, “it is well settled that the papillary lines and marks on the fingers
of every man, woman and child possess an individual character different from
those of any person and that the chances that the fingerprints of two different
persons may be identical are infinitesimally remote.

8. In a California case, People vs. Coral (224 cal. 2d300 (1964( ), the court stated,
“it is completely settled law that fingerprints are the strongest evidence of the
identity of a person.” This Doctrine was reasserted in another California case,
People V. Riser (47 cal. 2d566 (1956) ) in which the court stated, “fingerprint
evidence is the strongest evidence of identity and is ordinarily sufficient alone
to identify the defendant.”

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Telefax: (082)300-5456

9. The US Supreme Court in the case of Schmerber vs. California (Schmerber

v. California, 384 us, 757, 763 764 (1966) ), held that the introduction into
evidence of fingerprint impressions taken without consent of the defendant was
not an infringement of the constitutional privilege against self incrimination. The
high court held that it is constitutional to obtain real or physical evidence even
if the suspect is compelled to give blood in a hospital environment, submit to
fingerprinting, photographing or measurement, write or speak for identification,
appears in court, stand or walk, assume a stance or make a particular gesture,
put on a cloth that fits him, or exhibit his body as evidence when it is material.
The Schmerber case points out the fact that the privilege against self-
incrimination is related primarily to “TESTIMONIAL COMPULSION”.

10. In the Philippines, several decided cases could be cited where fingerprint
evidence was admitted, considered and appreciated by the appellate courts
with even lesser number of ridge similarities. In the BILANGAWA vs.
AMADOR case, (Court of Appeals No. 37320-b), a fingerprint expert and
constabulary sergeant testified and successfully defended fingerprint evidence
based on eight identical ride points.

11. People vs. Medina (59 Phil. 330) - The first leading judicial decision in the
Philippine jurisprudence on the science of fingerprinting.

Reasons why Fingerprints is one of the most Infallible Means of Personal

Identification

1. Fingerprints are already formed about 3 to 4 months of intra-uterine life and will
remain unchanged throughout life until the final decomposition of the body.
2. The pattern formation formed by the papillary ridges contains peculiar
characteristics upon which a person can always be identified by fingerprint
examiners.
3. Almost every police and law enforcement agencies throughout the world
accept, adopt and utilize the fingerprint system as a means of absolute
identification of a person.
4. The court and other authorities had taken cognizance of its importance and
reliability as a means of identification.
5. That fingerprint will speak for itself as it shows the owner thereof in accordance
with the principle of re ipso liquitor (a thing will speak for itself).

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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

SELF-HELP. You can also refer to the sources below to help you further
understand the lesson:

TEXTBOOK: Revisa, W,A., et.al . (2015) Workbook on personal identification, Quezon City :
ChapterHouse Publishing

a. Badua, J,B. (2016), Dactyloscopy manual and workbook: outcomes based

education manual, Quezon City : ChapterHouse Publishing
b. Okuda, M. (2015), A hands-on introduction to forensic science : cracking the
case, Boca Raton : CRC Press
c. Villaluz, J,C. (2014), Instructional module on special crime investigation, Quezon
City :Wiseman's Books Trading
d. Osterburg, J, W. (2014) Criminal investigation : a method for reconstructing the
past, 7th, Amsterdam : Anderson Publishing is an imprint of Elsevier
e. Miller, M, T. (2014) Crime scene investigation laboratory manual, Amsterdam :
Academic Press
f. Hoover, J. (n.d) The Science of Fingerprint. Retrieved from
https://www.crime-sceneinvestigator.net/fbiscienceoffingerprints.html

LET’S CHECK!

Activity 1. IDENTIFICATION. Write on the space provided below the answer that best
corresponds to the statement or question.

_________________1. In this case, the Illinois court pass the admissibility of

fingerprint evidence.
_________________2. It was held competent to show by a photograph the
fingerprints upon the balcony post of a house entered, without producing that post in
court, and to show by expert testimony that the fingerprints found on the post were
similar to the fingerprints of the defendant.
_________________3. In this case, a fingerprint expert and constabulary sergeant
testified and successfully defended fingerprint evidence based on eight identical ride
points.
_________________4. The first leading judicial decision in the Philippine
jurisprudence on the science of fingerprinting.
_________________5. The court stated in this case that “it is completely settled law
that fingerprints are the strongest evidence of the identity of a person.”
_________________6. It is well settled here that the papillary lines and marks on the
fingers of every man, woman and child possess an individual character different from
those of any person and that the chances that the fingerprints of two different persons
may be identical are infinitesimally remote.
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_________________7. It is held that the introduction into evidence of fingerprint

impressions taken without consent of the defendant was not an infringement of the
constitutional privilege against self-incrimination.
_________________8. The New Jersey Court of Errors and Appeals held, “in
principle, its admission as legal evidence is based upon the theory that the evolution
in practical affairs of life, whereby the progressive and scientific tenderness of the age
are manifested in every other department of human endeavor, cannot be ignored in
legal procedure.
_________________9. TRUE OR FALSE: Fingerprints are inherited.
_________________10. TRUE OR FALSE: Fingerprints can be forged.

LET’S ANALYZE!

Activity 1. ESSAY. Write your opinion about the following and discuss.

1. Is it possible for the fingerprint to be forged?

___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

2. If the fingerprint of the suspect found in the crime scene, can it be a

conclusive evidence of his guilt?

___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

IN A NUTSHELL

Activity 1. Search in the internet or other resources at least one (1) Court
ruling/case in relation to the admissibility of fingerprint in the court that
not mentioned in this module. Include the facts and court decision. Provide
also the reference.

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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

KEYWORDS INDEX. This section lists down the important keywords from this unit
that will help you to recall and review.

Law of Multiplicity of Bilangawa v.

People v. Medina Absolute Identity
Evidence Amador
Testimonial
People v. Jennings Infallibility Law of Probability
compulsion

Q&A LIST. This section allows you to list down all emerging questions or issues. This
Q&A portion will help you to understand the concepts and essential knowledge that
this course offers.

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Do you have and questions for clarification?

Questions/Issues Answers
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Final Written Exam for Lecture

Since this is a board examination course, you are required to the Multiple-Choice Final
Examination inside the University as required by the policy. Accordingly, this is non-
negotiable for all licensure-based programs. You will be informed ahead of the
schedule.

Lastly, for any concerns or issues arising from this module, feel free to contact the course
administrator, program head or dean using the contact details provided in this material.

COURSE SCHEDULE-LECTURE. This section calendars all the activities and

exercises, including readings and lectures, as well as time for making assignments and
doing other requirements, in a programmed schedule by days and weeks, to help the
students in SDL pacing, regardless of mode of delivery.

Activity Date Where to submit

Big Picture A: Let’s Check Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture A: Let’s Do This Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture A: In a Nutshell Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture B: Let’s Check Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture B: Let’s Do This Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture B: In a Nutshell Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture C: Let’s Check Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture C: Let’s Do This Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture C: In a Nutshell Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

Big Picture D: Let’s Check Activities TBA Blackboard LMS

Big Picture D: Let’s Do This Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Big Picture D: In a Nutshell Activities TBA Blackboard LMS
Q&A List TBA Blackboard LMS
Final Exam TBA Blackboard LMS
Laboratory Activity TBA Blackboard LMS

Laboratory Guidelines, Activities, and Schedules

The following policies and guidelines shall be followed in the conduct of all laboratory
activities as required in the CRI 221/L course outline:

1. Since this is a semestral course, all laboratory activities shall be conducted

during the 2nd Term.

2. The students enrolled in the course shall be physically present to perform the
activities within their given schedules. This is with the assumption that university
issuances will now allow the students to travel and can enter the university.

3. In preparing the laboratory schedule, the teacher should take into account the
number of students per classroom/laboratory room based on the existing
government and university policies under the “new normal” for the conduct of
classes. As much as practicable, physical distancing must always be observed
while inside the room and during the performance of these activities. In this
course, a maximum of 10 students will be scheduled to perform per day.

4. The teacher and students must always wear protective equipment, which
includes but not limited to the following; facemask, laboratory gown, face shield,
and gloves. The CCJE Crime Laboratory Office will provide the facemasks and
disposable gloves while the laboratory gown and face shield will be provided by
the students. The bringing of personal sanitizer or disinfectant is also
encouraged.

5. Students coming from places identified as COVID-19 very high risk/high risk or
having in contact with anyone suspected of COVID-19 positive/suspect are not
required and must not report to school.

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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

6. The teacher must immediately report to the University Clinic any students
observed to be unwell. Likewise, students should immediately inform the
teacher should they feel sick or ill.

7. Lastly, the laboratory custodian must first conduct orientation on laboratory

rules and regulations before any activities will be performed.

8. The students must strictly adhere to health protocols imposed by the Security
Safety Office upon entering the University. This includes the submission of the
UM Health Check List

9. In case a student cannot perform the scheduled activities due to # 5 item,

unavailability of transportation, restriction of travel or health reason will be given
a special schedule to be determined by the teacher upon presentation of proof
thereof.

In this course, the following are the required laboratory activities to be performed by
the students;

1. Accomplish/perform all the activities in the Laboratory Manual for

Personal Identification Techniques. The students can bring home their
manual and submit it to the teacher at least a week before the end of the 2nd
Term.

2. Familiarization of Fingerprint Instrument, Equipment, and Chemicals

used in the development of latent print. The teacher will identify and
introduce the different instrument, equipment, chemicals used in the
development of latent print; discuss its uses and importance; and lastly,
demonstrate proper procedure in using it. The teacher may also present
supplementary videos for the demonstration. The students will now be given a
chance to familiarize themselves to it.

3. Fingerprint Taking. The teacher will first demonstrate the step by step proper
procedures in taking fingerprint either in actual or presentation of video. The
students will then be required to record their own fingerprint rolled and plain
impression on a fingerprint card. If circumstances may allow and safety
procedures are observed, they may find a pair to act as an operator or a subject
in taking and recording of the fingerprint impression.

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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

4. Lifting of fingerprint by Powdering Method. The teacher will first

demonstrate the step by step procedures in lifting fingerprint by powdering
method either in actual or presentation of video. The students will then practice
lifting latent prints and transfer same in a crime scene search paper or in their
laboratory manual.

5. Lifting of fingerprint by Chemical Method. The teacher will first demonstrate

the step by step procedures in lifting fingerprint by chemical method (a)
Ninhydrin method; (b) Victoria Pure Blue Method either in actual or presentation
of video.

The students will then practice lifting latent prints of each method and transfer
same in their laboratory manual.

6. Superglue Fuming Glass Method. The teacher will first demonstrate the step
by step procedures in lifting fingerprint using superglue fuming glass method
either in actual or presentation of video. A soda can with latent prints will be
used as the students will observe the development of the latent impression and
will also be given a chance to lift the print and transfer the same in their
laboratory manual activity.

7. Reflection/Reaction Writing. Each student will be required to submit a

reflection or reaction paper based on their observation/experiences of each
activity. This output shall be submitted through the Blackboard within 72 hours
after performing the activity.

Lastly, the schedule in performing the activities as mentioned above (except Items1
and 5) shall be provided by the teacher during the final exam for the lecture at the end
of the 1st Term. Assuming there are 40 students enrolled in the course, and each
group will be composed of 10 students, the schedule below shall be followed utilizing
the 54 required laboratory hours ( 4 groups x 14 hrs. per group= 56 hrs.)

Group 1 (The same schedule will apply for the three (3) groups, 14 hrs. per group
X 4= 56 Hrs)

Day Activities Time Duration

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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

Familiarization of Fingerprint
Instrument, Equipment, and 4 hrs
Chemicals used in the
Day 1
development of latent print
7 hrs
Fingerprint Taking 2 hrs
(8:00-4:00PM)
Lifting of Fingerprint by Powdering 1 hr
Method
Lifting of fingerprint by Chemical 2 hrs
Day 2 Method: Ninhydrin Method
7 hrs Lifting of fingerprint by Chemical 2 hrs
(8:00-4:00PM) Method: Victoria Blue Method
Superglue Fuming Glass Method 3 hrs

Total 56 hrs

Online Code of Conduct

(2) All teachers/Course Facilitators and students are expected to abide by an

honor code of conduct, and thus everyone and all are exhorted to exercise self-
management and self-regulation.

(3) Faculty members are guided by utmost professional conduct as learning

facilitators in holding OBD and DED conduct. Any breach and violation shall be
dealt with properly under existing guidelines, specifically on social media
conduct (OPM 21.15) and personnel discipline (OPM 21.11).

(3) All students are likewise guided by professional conduct as learners in

attending OBD or DED courses. Any breach and violation shall be dealt with
properly under existing guidelines, specifically in Section 7 (Student Discipline)
in the Student Handbook.

(4) Professional conduct refers to the embodiment and exercise of the University’s
Core Values, specifically in the adherence to intellectual honesty and integrity;
academic excellence by giving due diligence in virtual class participation in all
lectures and activities, as well as fidelity in doing and submitting performance
tasks and assignments; personal discipline in complying with all deadlines; and
observance of data privacy.
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Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

(5) Plagiarism is a serious intellectual crime and shall be dealt with accordingly.
The University shall institute monitoring mechanisms online to detect and
penalize plagiarism.

(6) All borrowed materials uploaded by the teachers/Course Facilitators shall be

properly acknowledged and cited; the teachers/Course Facilitators shall be
professionally and personally responsible for all the materials uploaded in the
online classes or published in SIM/SDL manuals.

(7) Teachers/Course Facilitators shall devote time to handle OBD or DED

courses and shall honestly exercise due assessment of student performance.

(8) Teachers/Course Facilitators shall never engage in quarrels with students

online. While contentions intellectual discussions are allowed, the
teachers/Course Facilitators shall take the higher ground in facilitating and
moderating these discussions. Foul, lewd, vulgar and discriminatory languages
are absolutely prohibited.

(9) Students shall independently and honestly take examinations and do

assignments, unless collaboration is clearly required or permitted. Students
shall not resort to dishonesty to improve the result of their assessments (e.g.
examinations, assignments).

(10) Students shall not allow anyone else to access their personal LMS account.
Students shall not post or share their answers, assignment or examinations to
others to further academic fraudulence online.

(11) By handling OBD or DED courses, teachers/Course Facilitators agree and

abide by all the provisions of the Online Code of Conduct, as well as all the
requirements and protocols in handling online courses.

(12) By enrolling in OBD or DED courses, students agree and abide by all the
provisions of the Online Code of Conduct, as well as all the requirements and
protocols in handling online courses.

Course prepared by:

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 College of Criminal Justice Education
Matina Campus, Davao City
2nd floor GET Building
Telefax: (082)300-5456

CHERRYFE M. ESPAÑA
College of Criminal Justice Education

Course reviewed by:

ROBERTO R. MAGBOJOS, Ph.D.___________

Program Head, College of Criminal Justice Education

Approved by:

CARMELITA B. CHAVEZ, Ph.D.______

Dean, College of Criminal Justice Education

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