Challenges in Taking Fingerprint from Dead Body

The history of fingerprinting can be traced back to long before its use in criminal proceedings. For many years fingerprints are widely being used as a reliable source of individual identification in criminal investigation and thus, it has its special importance in the field of forensic science.  From a long time ago to till date it is referred to as the most valuable evidence. 

The recording methodologies of fingerprints have shown considerable development. Initially the prints were recorded using normal printer inks. After that specialized fingerprint inks came into existence and till date they are being used with other advanced digital devices such as live fingerprint scanners.  

Common Challenges Faced

Recording fingerprints of dead body is not as easy as it is in the case of a living person. There are several factors that pose challenge while dealing with a person who is dead. These factors include:

• Stiffening of the fingers due to rigor mortis
• Shrunken skin
• Decomposition
• Mummification of the body, etc.

It becomes difficult to record fingerprints in such circumstances. Thus, appropriate method with less challenges and better outcome needs to be adopted. 

Methods for Recording Fingerprints from a Dead Body

Conventional Rolling Method

Inking Method

Fingerprint Scanning

Which Method Can Be Conveniently Used?

The method that can be conveniently used is dusting black powder, which is normally used to develop latent fingerprint impressions at the scene of crime.  What you require is the fingerprint powder, a small “camel hair” brush, fingerprint tape, white sheet/ clear fingerprint cards for pasting the collected print. 

Steps you need to follow:

• Dust the powder on to the finger and brush off the excess.
• Cut the sheet into 10 small pieces for each finger.
• Take the tape and press it firmly against the finger (from center to outward)
• Gently remove the tape and place it on a fingerprint card. 

Note: In case the fingers are overly wrinkled, casting can also be done. 

References:

• Dclemens, and Dclemens. Crime & Clues, 31 Jan. 2013,crimeandclues.com/2013/01/31/fingerprinting-the-dead/.
• “Fingerprinting the Deceased: Traditional and New Techniques.” ResearchGate,www.researchgate.net/publication/11890744_Fingerprinting_the_Deceased_Traditional_and_New_Techniques.