latent print
Invisible skin impression
A latent print is a fingerprint or other impression left on a surface that is not visible to the naked eye and must be developed or enhanced to be seen.
In forensic contexts, latent prints are recovered from crime scenes using powders, chemicals, or alternative light sources that make the otherwise invisible ridge patterns detectable.
The investigators found latent prints on the window frame.
The term distinguishes these hidden impressions from visible prints left in blood, ink, or other substances.
Effect on the mind
- residueMatter left behind
- traceMinute remnant or pursue
- markVisible impression or sign
- transferMove between locations
oil · sweat · sebaceous · dermal · contact · touch · substrate · porous
Removing surface grime
- powderFine dry particles
- brushBristled cleaning tool
- tapeAdhesive strip on roll
- liftMechanism for vertical transport
ridge · whorl · arch · loop · minutiae · comparison · identification · AFIS
Location of an offense
- probativeTending to demonstrate truth
- chain of custodyDocumented evidence handling sequence
- exhibitItem publicly displayed
- testimonySworn statement as evidence
court · prosecution · defense · expert witness · case file · suspect · victim · hit
impression
Effect on the mind
transfer · oil · sweat · sebaceous · dermal · contact · touch · substrate · porous · nonporous
dusting
Removing surface grime
lift · ridge · whorl · arch · loop · minutiae · comparison · identification · AFIS · database
crime scene
Location of an offense
- probativeTending to demonstrate truth
- chain of custodyDocumented evidence handling sequence
- exhibitItem publicly displayed
testimony · court · prosecution · defense · expert witness · case file · suspect · victim · hit · cold case
- forensicsDNA, DNA analysis, forensics, criminalistics, crime scene
- Fingerprintsthumbprint, thumbprints, whorl, whorls, loops