Systems of Friction Ridge Classification

The Fingerprint Sourcebook - Chapter 5

National Institute of Justice

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Introduction to Classification Systems

The concept of friction ridge individualization as an infallible means of individualization is rooted in the history of man and our inherent need to individualize ourselves, and be individualized, in an ever-expanding world. As populations grew and cities filled with differing classes of people, the populations of jails and prisons grew also. The ability to accurately identify repeat offenders was critical to the effectiveness of criminal justice institutions. It became paramount that an accurate method of individualization be developed.

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Table of Contents and Preface
Chapter 1: History, by Jeffery G. Barnes
Chapter 2: Anatomy and Physiology of Adult Friction Ridge Skin, by Alice Maceo
Chapter 3: Embryology, Physiology, and Morphology, by Kasey Wertheim
Chapter 4: Recording living and postmortem friction ridge exemplars, by Brent T. Cutro, Sr.
Chapter 5: Systems of Friction Ridge Classification, by Laura A. Hutchins
Chapter 6: Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), by Kenneth R. Moses
Chapter 7: Latent Print Development, by Brian Yamashita and Mike French
Chapter 8: The Preservation of Friction Ridge Information, by Laura A. Hutchins
Chapter 9: Examination Methodology, by John R. Vanderkolk
Chapter 10: Documentation of Friction Ridge Impressions: From the Scene to the Conclusion, by Alice V. Maceo
Chapter 11: Equipment, by Julieanne Perez-Avila
Chapter 12: Quality Assurance, by M. Leanne Gray
Chapter 13: Fingerprints and the Law, by Andre A. Moenssens and Stephen B. Meagher
Chapter 14: Scientific Research Supporting the foundations of Friction Ridge Examinations, by Glenn Langenburg
Chapter 15: Special Abilities & Vulnerabilities in Forensic Expertise, by Tom Busey & Itiel Dror
Appendices SWGFAST Standard Terminology of Friction Ridge Examination, Ver. 3.0