Fingerprint Evidence

Fingerprint development

Fingerprints still remain as the only unique method of identification, and are therefore a powerful tool in investigations. They can be deposited in different ways, including as latent marks in sweat, or in a contaminant such as blood. Finger and palm marks can be found using various methods, including light source examinations and the application of powders and chemicals:

Aluminium powder	Ninhydrin development	Visible palm mark in blood

Biomark Forensics are able to utilise specialised laboratory facilities, enabling us to conduct fingerprint examinations on a variety of items, including carrier bags, documents, drug wraps or objects used as weapons.

Fingerprint Comparisons

Comparisons are conducted by comparing the ridge characteristic detail present within the mark  with the Suspect’s finger/palm prints. England and Wales have a non-numeric fingerprint standard, whereby there is no minimum number of matching characteristics required to prove an identification in Court.

Our Experts are able to:

►  Comment on the length of time finger/palm marks can remain on a surface;

►  Compare fingerprint evidence with alleged events;

►  Conduct finger and palm print comparisons, including checking identifications, and fingerprinting people, if necessary;

►  Critically examine the discovery, retrieval and continuity of fingerprint evidence;

►  Examine scenes and exhibits for fingerprint evidence, taking photographs to illustrate findings;

►  Examine work conducted by the relevant Fingerprint Bureau;

►  Investigate assertions of ‘planted’ or ‘transplanted’ finger marks;

►  Produce detailed Expert reports, in S9 format;

►  Provide advice at Court to Barristers and Solicitors;

►  Provide Expert testimony at Court.

Please contact us should you wish to discuss a specific case , or go to our Quotes page to find out what information we need in order to provide you with a quote.