Fingerprint science

Abstract

This paper examines the extent to which data support the source attributions made by fingerprint examiners. It challenges the assumption that each person's fingerprints are unique, but finds that evidence of persistence of an individual's fingerprints is better founded. The use of the AFIS (Automatic Fingerprint Identification System) is problematic, because the algorithms used are proprietary. Additionally, the databases used in conjunction with AFIS are incomplete and not public. Finally, and most crucially, the finding of similarities between the mark found at a crime scene and a fingerprint on file does not permit estimation of the number of persons in a given population who share those characteristics. Consequently, there is no scientific basis for a source attribution; whether phrased as a "match," as "individualization" or otherwise.

Interpol review of fingermarks and other body impressions 2016–2019

“…As Eldridge puts it: as least in the U.S. “There is a shifting landscape of latent print testimony” [ 37 ]. In his formal review of fingerprint evidence, Kadane concluded that: “there is no scientific basis for a source attribution; whether phrased as a “match,” as “individualization” or otherwise” [ 38 ]. Not only does it apply to the fingerprint fields, but all areas of forensic science dealing with identification issues including forensic medicine [ 39 ].…”