Fingerprinting is not a service provided by NFLS.

• The decision to proceed with fingerprinting or not rests with your investigative team.

• Your local forensic identification unit may provide this service or assist you in determining if the surface of the item is suitable for fingerprinting.

 

When conducting fingerprinting, avoid excessive handling of the exhibit, even while wearing gloves.

• If fingerprinting has been completed on the exhibit(s), please inform NFLS directly on the C-414 and through communications with FAC.

• Indicate what techniques/chemicals were used for fingerprinting.

• If Amido black or Leucocrystal Violet has been used directly on the exhibit(s) for fingerprinting purposes, please advise FAC, as this will impact blood examination.

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Exhibit that require fingerprinting and examination at NFLS should be examined in the recommended order. 

• Except for the situations mentioned below, ensure all required fingerprinting is completed prior to submission. ​

• Examinations at the laboratory may remove fingerprint evidence. (i.e. swabbing, cutting, manipulation, etc.)

• For exhibits submitted to Firearms and Toolmark Examination, fingerprinting and swabbing items for DNA are normally done prior to submission. 

 

Exceptions:

• Items sealed for the examination of explosives and/or accelerants and items submitted to the National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau should generally not undergo fingerprinting prior to laboratory analysis. 

• When in doubt, contact the FAC for more information.

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