Latent Print Examiner I

Duties

Duties/Responsibilities (Work assignments may vary depending on the department's needs and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the supervisor.)

• 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.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, Computer Forensics or Forensic Psychology

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and completion of eighty (80) hours of International Association for Identification (IAI) Latent Print Certification Board-approved formal training in latent print examination/comparison, and one year of full-time experience in latent print examination/comparison.
(Additional relevant experience may substitute for the aforementioned education.)
OR
• Current certification as a Latent Print Examiner by the International Association for Identification.

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