Join us for a five-day practical training course introducing participants to the science and investigative value of forensic fingerprint evidence. This course is introductory in nature and provides participants with a hands-on overview of how fingerprints are detected, collected, documented, and ultimately presented in court.

Participants will take part in multiple hands-on practical sessions, allowing them to apply fingerprint development techniques and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and considerations involved in forensic fingerprint work.

Who should attend:

The course is designed for students interested in forensic science, criminology, or law, as well as professionals working in law enforcement, private investigation, private security, wildlife protection, and legal practice. Criminal attorneys, investigators, and other legal professionals who wish to better understand fingerprint evidence and how it is used during investigations and court proceedings are also encouraged to attend.

Course highlights:

• The history and development of fingerprint identification

• Introduction to latent fingerprints and the principles of fingerprint detection

• The scientific principles and theory behind fingerprint individuality

• Fingerprint pattern classification systems

• Introduction to the fundamental principles of fingerprint comparison and identification

• Introduction to powders, chemical reagents, and development techniques used to visualize fingerprints

• The use of alternative light sources in fingerprint detection

• Fingerprint development on a variety of surfaces

• Practical exercises using powder techniques and cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming

• Photographing and documenting fingerprints at crime scenes

• Understanding the integrity and handling of fingerprint evidence

• An introduction to expert witness testimony and presenting fingerprint evidence in court