PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL - Crime Scene Investigator Network

Physical Evidence Manual
Table 5: Latent Fingerprint Evidence DO'S
DO use cotton or latex gloves to pick up items of evidence being careful not to
wipe possible latent prints off the surface.
DO minimize handling of evidence.
DO fasten down large articles containing latent prints with string or wire to a rigid
surface to prevent shifting and contact with other items. Mark containers with the
words “latent print evidence.”
DO put developed latent lifts in envelopes and mark and seal.
DO place papers and documents containing latent prints in manila envelopes,
seal and mail.
DO take complete and legible, inked prints of all of subjects without SID
numbers.
DO include inked fingerprints and palm prints of all individuals who may have
handled the items before or after the crime.
DO treat all inked print cards as evidence, seal and package with a completed
Forensic Services Request (Form 49).
DO list all descriptive information of subjects being named for latent print
comparison. This includes appropriate State Identification numbers (SID).
DO mark packaging with “Biohazard” symbol if item contains skin, blood or other
biological stained evidence.
Table 6: Latent Fingerprint Evidence DON'TS
DON’T apply powder to obviously greasy, wet or bloody surfaces, or to prints left
in dust or soft putty. Please photograph these prints.
DON’T wrap nonporous items in cotton or cloth as they may damage or destroy
the latent impressions.
DON’T directly cover exhibits to be examined for latent prints with evidence tape.
Adopted: May 2002
Revisions: 6
Last Revision: January 31, 2008
10-7