This five-day introductory course is designed to familiarize the student with the fundamental concepts of Rid geology, which is a holistic approach to fingerprint examination. This course examines in detail the following topics: theory, technique, standards, and conclusions. The theories of skin growth, persistence, and biological uniqueness are presented, along with the contributions of key researchers in fingerprint science.

The focus then shifts heavily toward technique. Considerable time is spent discussing ACE-V methodology, but preferential treatment is given to the analysis phase. Students will analyze numerous impressions, record their bench notes, and then articulate and defend those notes for the class. This will reinforce the material presented and will better enable the student to understand the appearance of a given impression. I will also highlight the importance of a transparent case record that can withstand scientific scrutiny. Students will also complete two (2) separate comparison exercises.

Both legal and scientific standards will then be discussed, along with what comprises our standards for conclusions. Key legal decisions pertaining to the science of fingerprints will be discussed, as will issues raised by prominent critics of the science. Students will complete a written assessment at the end of the course. 

This course is designed to help the student become a better-rounded, more competent fingerprint examiner. Those new to the science of fingerprints will benefit from basic explanations of complex topics, while more seasoned examiners – such as those trained to a numerical standard for identification – will benefit from discussions covering all aspects of the deposition process. Students with experience ranging from 2 weeks to 25+ years have attended this course.