Wisconsin Department of Justice Identification Manual - Imprimus ...

Fingerprint Patterns
Classification vs. Latent Identification
There is much confusion between fingerprint CLASSIFICATION and LATENT
fingerprint identification. Although the two areas are definitely related, they should
be viewed as two separate functions.
Fingerprint classification is a formula derived from pattern interpretation of the ten
fingers in known sequence. There are only three basic fingerprint patterns. They are
the arch, loop, and whorl. Fingerprint classification is therefore a means of placing
an individual's fingerprint card in a specific location in the fingerprint file. It is
much like an address where one or more individuals may reside. Classification alone
is not a means of positive identification.
What makes fingerprints unique are the individual ridge details within the pattern.
These individual ridge details include such things as ridge endings, forking ridges,
enclosures, etc. These minute details make an individual fingerprint unique. Latent
fingerprint comparison is based on these ridge details. A latent fingerprint may not
have enough of the pattern area visible to be classified and yet there may be enough
individual ridge detail to make a positive identification of a suspect. If an
investigator has a latent fingerprint but no suspect, that latent fingerprint can be
entered and searched against the AFIS data base, which stores the fingerprint images
from the arrest cards that are sent to CIB to be added to the Criminal History files,
for a possible match. This was nearly impossible in the past due to the time required
to perform such a search. With AFIS, a search of the entire data base can now be
completed in minutes. If the investigator has a limited number of suspects and their
fingerprint cards are available, then a comparison can be accomplished without an
AFIS search.
REMEMBER, a Fingerprint Classification Technician can work without latent
impressions, but a Latent Fingerprint Examiner cannot function without clear and
distinct fingerprint cards that are entered into the AFIS permanent data base. It is
important to submit the best set of fingerprints to CIB in order to ensure a good
quality data base which increases the probability of a latent fingerprint matching and
solving a crime.
Fingerprint pattern interpretation is utilized by the Crime Information Bureau,
Fingerprint Identification Section to search and store fingerprint images in the AFIS
data base. These tenprint images are compared to images stored in the AFIS data
base for positive identification. The examination and comparison of latent
fingerprints is handled by the Crime Laboratory Bureau.
Henry System of Fingerprint Classification
Henry System Introduction
The intent of this section is to familiarize all agencies with general information
relating to the technical process utilized in developing a fingerprint classification. It
Wisconsin Department of Justice Identification Manual Fingerprint Patterns • 83