What is the typical sequence for developing and collecting latent fingerprints on a nonporous surface?

What is the typical sequence for developing and collecting latent fingerprints on a nonporous surface?

• A. Photograph the surface; lift with tape; preserve the lift on a card; label; and secure.
• B. Photograph the surface; apply development; photograph prints; lift with tape; preserve the lift on a card; label; and secure.
• C. Photograph the surface; photograph prints; apply development; lift with tape; preserve the lift on a card; label; and secure.
• D. Photograph the surface; apply development; photograph prints; lift with tape; preserve the lift on a card; label; and secure.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that on nonporous surfaces you reveal latent prints, document them in place, then preserve them. Start by photographing the surface as it sits to capture context and conditions before any changes. Next, apply the development method to visualize the prints. Once they’re visible, photograph the prints to capture their appearance and exact locations while they’re still on the surface. Then lift the prints with tape to preserve the details for analysis, and preserve that lift on a card. Finally, label the lift and secure it to maintain proper handling and chain of custody. This sequence ensures you don’t lose contextual information, you document the prints after they’re developed, and you preserve a physical copy of the print for future examination.