Latent Fingerprint Examiner

Duties

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Evaluates the quality of latent prints submitted and developed from a crime scene to determine if they are of sufficient value for comparison and determine if the latent print qualifies for entry into Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
• Enters data into AFIS to include the examiner utilizing their technical skills involving the manual markup, counting, and zoning minutiae.
• Retrieves and screens a list of candidate images from AFIS.
• Analyzes, compares, and identifies latent fingerprint evidence; and processes cases with known and unknown subject information.
• Performs side-by-side comparison utilizing magnifying glasses or computer programs.
• Makes final determination as to the identification or exclusion of a subject to latent prints.
• Establishes, verifies, or excludes identifications by examining the ridge detail in the latent prints while comparing it to the ridge detail present in the known prints.
• Maintains chain of custody for evidence received.
• Establishes and maintains a database of unsolved latent prints using the AFIS
• Prepares reports detailing latent print comparison findings; verify co-workers' casework and conclusions as required.
• Provides information to interdepartmental representatives and local and State law enforcement agencies.
• Prepares court exhibits.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness in all aspects of latent print methodology and identification.
• Gives oral presentations as directed by the Supervising Fingerprint Examiner relative to identifying and comparing inked and latent prints to Sheriff Department personnel or other parties.
• Provides responsive, high quality service to County employees, representatives of outside agencies and members of the public by providing accurate, complete and up-to-date information, in a courteous, efficient and timely manner.
• Assists in providing technical assistance to newly hired Latent Fingerprint Examiners.
• Responds promptly to time-sensitive incidents by driving either a personal or county vehicle to remote or distant locations as required, ensuring timely resolution and support based on the nature and urgency of the situation.
• Provides vacation and temporary relief as required.

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

Requirements

Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following options:

• Option 1: Two (2) years of full-time journey-level experience in fingerprint classification and identification in a law-enforcement organization that includes the use of federal, state, county, and local identification systems. Experience equivalent to a San Bernardino County Fingerprint Examiner II.
-OR-
• Option 2: One (1) year of full-time experience involving searching, analyzing, and identifying latent fingerprints/palm prints in a law-enforcement organization that includes the use of federal, state, county, and local identification systems. Experience equivalent to a San Bernardino County Latent Fingerprint Examiner.

Desired Qualifications

• Certified Latent Print Examiner (CLPE) certificate from the International Association for Identification (IAI) is strongly preferred. Possession of a court transcript or letter confirming the court has qualified you as an expert witness in the latent fingerprint field is highly desirable.

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