Latent Prints

Latent print examiners and processors use state-of-the art forensic technology to detect, develop and identify latent fingerprints, palm prints and footprints. A latent print is an invisible chance reproduction of a fingerprint that may be left behind by direct contact. Fingerprints are unique to each individual and generally remain unchanged from birth to death. This has been a means of identification for more than 100 years.

Nearly all the section’s examiners are certified by the International Association for Identification (IAI). Examiners also use local, state and federal databases to find fingerprint matches. The FBI’s database, the Next Generation Identification, includes prints from more than 23,000 government agencies and other entities.

What you need to know about the Latent Prints Database