S AL U D O S H I S PAN O S Forensic Photography After the scene is secured, it must be photographed in order to create a permanent record of the condition of the scene, and to establish the location and surrounding areas. This may include relevant matters such as points of entry, and exit, the structure and layout of rooms, close-ups of the scene or body, marks, tracks, toolmarks, bullet holes, bullet casings, impressions, footprints etc. Ballistics, Firearms and Toolmark Identification This may also include explosives, imprint evidence, and marks left by prybars, screwdrivers or other tools which may be used during the commission of a crime. Specialists in this area may have to match a bullet back to the gun that fired it. In addition these criminalists may have to estimate the distance that the shot was fired, and/or the direction and type of weapon which was used. In the case of explosives, residue can be analyzed to determine the type of explosive. Imprint evidence is another important aspect of this specialization. This includes anything which may leave a two- or three-dimensional imprint such as tire tracks and footprints. Fingerprint ID and Classification Everyone has a distinctive fingerprint pattern made up of mainly loops, arches, or whorls. They are one of the best ways to positively identify someone. Because fingertips naturally secrete oils, the distinctive pattern is often left behind on items. Prints can be picked up by dusting them with powder, by "fuming" them with vapors or by lifting them up with special tape. Fingerprint technicians are responsible for collecting, classifying, comparing, and identifying these impressions for a variety of purposes. Fingerprint classifiers specialize in cataloging and comparing prints using a universal classification system (Henry Classification System). Document Examiners These specialists deal with documents and inscriptions, answering questions regarding authorship, authenticity, and alterations. They also study inks, paper, writing implements, business machines and other issues relating to documents. Issues of forgery, counterfeiting and handwriting analysis may come into play. After the evidence is examined, a report is prepared. They generally learn the trade under a two-year apprenticeship with a court qualified examiner.
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