| Author | Message | ||
     james walters |
what is the average time a print could last on a object like say a wooden shelf ar gun handle could it last for years | ||
| Caron M. Wootten |
Can fingerprints be detected on styrofoam? | ||
| Caron M. Wootten |
What is the average length of time that the MSP Crime Lab takes before fingerprint results are returned to the local agency for further investigation? | ||
| RON WEBER |
HOW LONG WILL A FINGERPRINT LAST IF IT IS ON PLASTIC OR METAL INSIDE A BUILDING RATHER THAN OUTSIDE AND EXPOSED TO THE WEATHER | ||
| Gary W. Jones |
First, there is no scientific method for determining the age of a latent print, no matter where it is deposited, so the final answer will be "Who knows?" Latent prints will generally last longer on porous surfaces (paper, cardboard, etc.) than on non-porous surfaces (metal, glass, tile, etc.). This is due to the fact that on a porous surface, the latent print is "in" the item and is not easily damaged or obliterated by another object coming into contact with it. On a non-porous surface, the latent print is on the surface and is much more fragile. It can easily be destroyed, such as when something rubs against it. A latent print on a glass or plastic window pane would be an example of a non-porous surface. The added factor of it being on the outside of the pane, exposed to the elements would also add to its fragility. That said, a number of other factors would also have to considered, such as the location of the window, the climate, when it was last cleaned, etc., etc., etc. A latent print on a non-porous surface can be deposited in sweat (from the pores on the ridges) or in oil, such as when a person might touch an area of the skin that has oil producing glands such as the face and then touch the glass surface. A latent print deposited in sweat will generally dry out much faster than one deposited in oil. So, again, the answer is that it is not possible to scientifically date how long a latent print has been on a particular object. The best that a fingerprint expert might be able to do is take in all the available information and form a general opinion, such as if another individual might verify that the window was cleaned a week ago. The expert would be able to indicate that it is "unlikely" that the latent print is older than that. | ||
| Horseman |
What is the lenght of time a fingerprint will last on an outside window? |
