Latent Prints- Solving Crimes Since Centuries

Abstract

Study of fingerprint patterns, termed as dermatoglyphics was first coined by Harold Cummins in 1926. Fingerprint is an impression made by the friction ridges that are almost parallel at constant crest to crest wavelength. The pattern is dominated by central features, such as whorls, loops, arches and triradii. Fingerprints have been used for several decades in forensic and medical sciences. The fingerprints characteristics such uniqueness, consistency and universality are the main features that are used by forensic experts in identification processes, are well developed during intra-uterine life. This elaborated review deals in depth with fingerprint pattern, scanning and how to put fingerprints in use for forensic investigations.