Forensic evidence enhancement using physiological aspects and processes

Fingermark examination is one of the most common forensic techniques used by the police and forensic examiners. Many methods for developing fingermarks on countless different surfaces exist, and various analytical methods are utilised to extract further information from fingermarks once visualised. However, there are still several areas of fingermark identification and examination that can be optimised.

The need to dark adapt the eyes prior to fingermark examination in low light environments was investigated. It was discovered that participants could visualise an average of 16 % more fluorescent patterns when allowing their eyes time to adapt to their darkened environment. This large increase in the amount visualised by participants suggests that crime scene officers should be allowing their eyes time to dark adapt prior to conducting examinations in the dark. [Continues.]