Application of Electrostatic Image Reproduction Method to Detect Traces of Papillary Patterns on Paper-Based Documents

Abstract

Numerous forensic sources reveal the main stages of fingerprint identification introduction in law enforcement activities, the work of researchers to develop a reliable method of forensic registration based on taking into account and using physiological peculiarities of the skin of human fingers and other aspects related to the conduct of fingerprint examination, the introduction of relevant automated databases, etc. At the current stage, forensic science is constantly developing. The range of methods and technical means for detecting fingerprints is expanding depending on the type of trace carrier, conditions of trace formation, as well as the tasks facing pretrial investigation bodies. Development of latest achievements of criminal investigation technique requires constant updating methods of using modern forensic technology and adoption of positive experience of applying achievements of science and technology in activities of law enforcement agencies of foreign countries, in particular Great Britain, during investigation of crimes and further work with physical evidence within the limits of forensic researches. The purpose of this article is to expand and deepen understanding of law enforcement staff of mastered method and conditions for its application for detection of traces of papillary patterns on paper surfaces. For achieving this goal, general scientific, as well as special optical and microscopic research methods were applied. Methodological aspects of detecting traces of papillary patterns on paper surfaces by the method of electrostatic reproduction of images with visual examples of the results of using the ESDA 2/B device are considered. Difference between this method of research and existing methods of detecting traces of papillary patterns is analyzed.