Advances in Fingerprint Technology.pdf

7. Results of comparisons conducted
8. The number of latent prints identified with a specific individual and
on what specimens the latent prints appear
9. The particular fingers identified
10. Complete names, known arrest numbers, social security numbers, and
dates of birth of all persons whose prints were compared
11. Identity of examiner who noted (coexamined) the evidence and verified
the identifications
12. Time and date the examination was completed
13. Method used to mark each piece of evidence (so expert can readily
identify each item in court)
14. Final disposition of the evidence (In most jurisdictions, evidence must
be returned to the contributing agency by registered mail. Registry
number should be retained. Disposition of intradepartmental evidence
can be documented using a special form.)
15. Name of contributor of evidence
16. Expert’s reference numbers and contributor’s reference number if
received from another agency
17. Request for special handling or answer
18. Registry or certified mail number under which evidence was received
19. Full name, rank, and title of person making delivery (if evidence is
hand-delivered)
If during testimony it becomes difficult to remember the facts, the expert
should refer to the worksheet. It is important to obtain authorization from
the judge before doing this. It should be pointed out, however, that continual
reference to the worksheet can create the impression that the expert is inadequately
prepared. Under the Jenks Act (Title 18, U.S. Code), the defense
attorney may request to see and then cross-examine the expert from any
worksheet referred to during testimony. It is wise to have a photocopy of the
worksheet for consultation if the defense attorney conducts a cross-examination
from the original worksheet. If handwritten, all notes should be legible.
Appearance and Clothing of Witness
A fingerprint expert is a salesperson selling the identification to the jury. The
appearance and clothing of the expert are therefore important factors in this
selling process. The expert’s appearance and clothing create the jury’s initial
impression of the expert. The jury judges the witness from these outward
signs given to them. Physical appearance, dress, and manner of testifying all
affect the jury as they begin to determine the credibility and weight to be