Pattern evidence

Researchers create a metric to determine the difficulty of matching latent and known fingerprints, then link that difficulty to error rates.

There is no standard method of detailed documentation of the latent print examination process, but researchers have developed software that improves the standardization and quantifiability, implemented as part of the FBI’s Universal Latent Workstation.

Researchers conducted a statistical study of handwriting characteristics to provide a database so that forensic document examination standards will better stand up to judicial scrutiny.

Researchers who developed a 3-D imaging system for analyzing cartridge casings say their latest work is “a critical next step” that gives cartridge analysis more credibility by including datasets, best practices, and performance checks.

Investigating and prosecuting sexual assault crimes is much more complicated than simply performing DNA testing.

Researchers claim they have developed a prototype system that could enable “low-cost, portable, objective analysis of tool marks.”