The
Fingerprint Factor
Fingerprint identification is a method of identifying individuals using the impressions made by the tiny ridge formations found on the fingertips. No two people have exactly the same arrangement of ridge patterns, and the patterns of each individual remain unchanged throughout life. Other personal characteristics may change, but fingerprints do not. This makes fingerprints a very reliable means of personal identification.
Fingerprints have been used for identification purposes for thousands of years. Members of the law enforcement community began using fingerprint evidence to identify criminal suspects over a hundred years ago. Since then, developments in the tools and methods of collecting and analyzing fingerprint evidence have had a significant impact on how criminals are identified and prosecuted.
In this lesson, you will explore “the fingerprint
factor” to answer the essential
question:
How has the development of fingerprint technology affected the
identification and prosecution of criminals?
1.
The Question
Begin by reading this