Research on the Key Points of Procedural Inspection Technology for Identification of Dissociated Fingerprints

The identification of dissociated fingerprints has a relatively high error rate. To enhance the accuracy and objectivity of identification opinions, this study investigates the key technical aspects of dissociated fingerprint examination and aims to establish standardized procedures and methods.

By analyzing and summarizing the feedback results from fingerprint identification proficiency tests conducted between 2018 and 2024, this study identified the primary causes of errors in dissociated fingerprint identification. Considering the characteristics of dissociated fingerprints and the general steps involved in fingerprint identification, five key technical points were outlined: determining the orientation and location of the fingerprint on the evidence, selecting reference points for the fingerprint, ensuring comprehensive comparison with the sample fingerprint, evaluating the consistency of minutiae features, and assessing the sufficiency of the sample fingerprint. The application of these five technical points was further explored through case studies.

The findings were incorporated into Section 10.1, “Technical Points for dissociated Fingerprint Examination” of the Technical Specification for Forensic Identification of Visible Fingerprint on Questioned Document (SF/T 0142-2023), providing detailed guidance on the practical application of the five key technical points.

The research presented in this paper holds significant theoretical and practical value for the procedural examination of dissociated fingerprints. It offers valuable insights for fingerprint examiners to improve their identification capabilities and ensure the quality of forensic evaluations.