Latent Print Examiner

Duties:

Duties/Responsibilities

• Performs computer-assisted and manual latent print to inked print and inked print to inked print comparisons, identifications and verifications; Enters latent print images and demographics from latent lift cards into computer remote workstation;
• Performs computer-assisted latent print enhancement using digital cameras, scanners and specialized software;
• Conducts laboratory examinations of physical evidence including weapons, explosive devices and human remains for fingerprints, palm prints, footprints, and glove and cloth impressions using powders, fumes, chemicals and laboratory equipment;
• Photographs, preserves and secures latent print evidence;
• Coordinates latent print evidence with other law enforcement agencies;
• Prepares detailed fingerprint comparison displays;
• Provides expert testimony in court and at pre-trial conferences regarding the positive identification of persons through latent print examinations and the science of fingerprint examinations;
• Instructs law enforcement personnel in advanced techniques for developing and identifying latent prints;
• Writes reports on scientific analyses of evidence for latent prints and other print comparisons;
• Maintains confidential files of known suspects' fingerprints, latent prints and evidence received and processed;
• Researches, tests, creates and refines methods for developing, processing, preserving and identifying latent prints;
• Rolls, files and searches for inked fingerprints;
• Participates and instructs others in procedures for processing physical evidence at crime scenes;
• Makes post mortem identification through fingerprint analysis;
• Provides technical supervision at the crime scene;
• May be temporarily assigned lead responsibilities, to include AFIS Site Manager duties;
• Create and maintain latent print Standard Operating Procedures.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

Knowledge of:

• the science of fingerprint classification and identification of persons through inked and latent print comparisons;
• the rules of evidence;
• hazards and safety precautions related to the chemicals and equipment used in processing evidence.

Skill in:

• developing latent prints through the use of chemicals, powders, light and laser processes;
• operating and maintaining fingerprint and evidence processing equipment;
• analyzing prints to establish the positive identity of individuals;
• communicating effectively orally and in writing;
• computer data entry and retrieval;
• testifying in court;
• writing reports and preparing displays indicating factors considered in print examinations;
• operating photographic equipment;
• presenting information regarding print examinations to groups and individuals.

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and completion of eighty (80) hours of formal training in latent print matters plus one-year experience in latent print-related matters. (Additional relevant experience may substitute for the aforementioned education.)
OR
• Current certification as a Latent Print Examiner by the International Association for Identification.

Supplemental Information

• Licenses and Certificates: All incumbents must obtain AZAFIS Latent Print Operator Certification and ACJIS Network Terminal Operator Certification within six months from appointment and must maintain this certification as a condition of employment. All positions require qualifying for and maintaining current membership in the International Association for Identification (IAI) and must currently have or obtain their certification as a Certified Latent Print Examiner (CLPE) through the IAI within twenty-four (24) months of appointment, and must maintain this certification as a condition of employment. Some positions require a valid Arizona Class D driver's license at the time of application. Failure to obtain/maintain the required licenses/certifications/membership shall be grounds for termination.
• Special Notice Items: All positions require the successful completion of a background investigation due to the need for access to law enforcement, detention and/or correctional facilities or associated confidential information, documents, and evidentiary materials. Department of Labor regulation CFR Part 1910.1030 requires notification that this category may have a high risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Hepatitis B vaccine will be provided.
• Physical/Sensory Requirements: Incumbents are required to: lift and carry objects weighing up to fifty pounds; work in extremes of heat, moisture and humidity; properly wear required safety clothing/equipment; perceive the full range of the color spectrum; observe small detail under high magnification for prolonged periods of time; accurately focus photographic lenses, and; examine line/shape detail and discern differences/similarities between form.

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