Management Audit

Index

Dactyloscopy

1. Introduction p1

2. Discussion p1

2.1 Scenario p1

2.2. Definitions p1

2.3. Four basic categories of the ridge patterns p1

2.4. Classification of fingerprints p2

2.5. Identification and collection of fingerprints p2

2.6. Latent prints p2

2.7. Four Methods to develop latent prints p3

2.8. Photogrophy p5

2.9. Taking of fingerprints p5

3. Conclusion p5

Ballistics

4. Introduction p6

5. Discussion p6

5.1. Scenario p6

5.2. Definition p6

5.3. Ballistics p7

5.4. Classification of firearms p7

5.5. Classification of ammunition p8

5.6. Collection and recording of ballistic evidence p9

5.7. Examination of ballistic evidence p9

6. Conclusion p11

Tracks

7. Introduction p12

8. Discussion p12

8.1. SCENARIO p12

8.2. Protection of the crime scene p12

8.3. Categories of tire prints p13

8.4. Methods of recording prints p13

8.5. Test Impressions p16

9. Conclusion p16

ANNEXURE 1 p17

ANNEXURE 2 p18

ANNEXURE 3 p19

ANNEXURE 4 p20

Dactyloscopy

1. Introduction

Fingerprints are one of the most valuable types of physical evidence found at a crime scene. Criminals often leave their "ID" cards at the scene of a crime. With the correct equipment and skills of an investigator, it will be easy to connect a suspect to a specific crime.

2. Discussion

2.1. Scenario

A burglar entered the house through a window. Pieces of glass lay on the ground, wet from the recent rain. The house is a mess. Everything was thrown around in the search for valuable items. Even the car in the garage was forced open with a screwdriver, which the burglar left on the front seat.

A few days later a suspect was arrested after some stolen property from the burglary was found in his possession. The suspect claims that he found the property in a dustbin near his home. The fingerprint experts are called in to try to connect the suspect to the crime scene.

2.2. Definitions

2.2.1. Dactyloscopy

The science of identifying individuals by their fingerprints. The term is derived from the Greek words "dactylos" that means finger, and "copy" that means print.

2.2.2. Fingerprints

The reproduction of the ridge areas of the first or nail joint of the finger in any manner.

2.3. Four basic categories of the ridge patterns

2.3.1. Arch

It consists of the plain arch and the tented arch, and consists of the parallel flow of ridges, like wafes, from one side of the finger to the other side.

2.3.2. Loop

Some of the ridges makes a backward turn but without a twist. The loop can be ulnar or radial.

2.3.3. Whorl

It is a pattern where at least one ridge completes a full circle.

2.3.4. Composites

Patterns where a combination of the arch, loop and whorl are found in the same print.

2.4. Classification of fingerprints

Classification can be described as the method to file or search for fingerprints. Classification are done for the purpose of recording previous convictions, and the tracing of unknown criminals. When finger prints are matched to a suspect, the expert will prepare a court chart, indicating the 7 matching points. See annexure 1

2.5. Identification and collection of fingerprints

Searching for fingerprints at a crime scene must be conducted in a logical manner. Care must be given to entrance and exit points.

The examiner must wear thin cloth gloves, and objects must only be touched by the edges. Less obvious places like toilet handles, trunk lids and the back of rear view mirrors must also be checked for prints. Frequently used objects normally don't deliver good prints. A flashlight that is shined at a angle on a surface may help to reveal some fingerprints.

2.6. Latent prints

The term "latent" means "hidden," but normally the term latent prints refers to those prints left at crime scenes or on items of evidence. Latent prints can be seen or unseen and often require development. Latent Print evidence can be divided into two main categories: Porous and Non-porous.

2.6.1. Porous

Surfaces such as paper, unfinished wood and cardboard, is normally