A groundbreaking study conducted by the Department of Forensic Medicine at Aarhus University has introduced a new method for analyzing fingerprints on gelatin lifters using chemical imaging. This innovative technique addresses the limitations of traditional fingerprint analysis methods, particularly in cases where fingerprints are faint or overlapping. By utilizing Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (DESI-MS), the researchers were able to measure the chemical compounds present in fingerprints based on their mass, providing a more detailed and accurate analysis.
Gelatin lifters are frequently used by Danish police to collect fingerprints from crime scenes, especially on delicate surfaces or irregular objects where traditional tape lifters may not be suitable. Once collected, the fingerprints are photographed digitally for processing through fingerprint databases. However, traditional photography methods may struggle to separate overlapping fingerprints, leading to valuable evidence being discarded. The new method presented in the study offers a solution by allowing for the separation of overlapping fingerprints and the enhancement of faint prints, which were previously challenging to analyze using optical imaging.
The researchers are currently in the process of testing this method on fingerprints collected from actual crime scenes, provided by the National Special Crime Unit of the Danish Police. By analyzing the chemical composition of fingerprints, the researchers hope to gain insights into the gender, age, dietary habits, and potentially incriminating substances present in the prints. Chemical imaging of fingerprints has the potential to provide valuable information beyond just identification, offering insights into lifestyle factors, medication use, and even exposure to substances of abuse that can be secreted through the skin.
Collaboration between the Department of Forensic Medicine and the National Special Crime Unit of the Danish Police ensures that the research is aimed at practical application in forensic investigations. While the method may not be suitable for analyzing large quantities of samples due to the time-consuming scanning process, it is expected to be utilized in serious cases such as murder and rape. By maximizing the information that can be obtained from fingerprints, this research has the potential to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in solving crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.
This study represents a significant advancement in forensic technology, offering a more comprehensive and detailed analysis of fingerprints as evidence in criminal investigations. By utilizing chemical imaging techniques, researchers are able to extract valuable information from fingerprints that was previously unattainable with traditional methods. The potential applications of this research extend beyond identification, allowing for the profiling of individuals based on their chemical composition and lifestyle factors. With ongoing developments and collaborations with law enforcement, this method has the potential to revolutionize fingerprint analysis and contribute to more effective crime-solving efforts in the future.