GEMINI CRIMINOLOGY ONLINE REVIEW AND TRAINING CENTER
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Dr. MANUEL V JAUDIAN, LLB. PhD
ETEEAP DIRECTOR
NOTES COMPILED AND EDITED BY: PROF. HERMOGENES MALAGAMBA
FINGERPRINTING (DACTYLOSCOPY)
NATURE OF FINGERPRINTS
A FINGERPRINT is a composite of the ridge outlines which appears on the skin surface of
the bulbs on the inside of the end of joints of the fingers and thumbs.
HISTORICAL ACCOUNTS INVOLVING FINGERPRINTS
1. In China, fingerprint is called “Hua Chi”. The value of fingerprints for purposes of
identification was found on a Chinese clay seal made not later than the 3 rd century B.C.
2. In England, Thomas Bewick, an English engraver, author, and naturalist engraved the
patterns of his own fingers on every wood-work he had finished to serve as his mark so
as to establish its genuineness.
Person on Dactyloscopy
3. 1684-Nehemiah Grew published a report which was read before the royal
society of London, England. He described the ridges and pores of the hands and
feet.
4. 1685-G. Bidloo published a treaty describing sweat pores and ridges.
5. 1685-Midle wrote a book, “Human Anatomy,” in which he included a drawing of
the thumb print showing the ridge configuration of the whorl pattern.
6. 1686-Professor Marcelo Malpighi, an Italian anatomist (GRANDFATHER OF
DACTYLOSCOPY according to Dr. Edmond Locard – “Father of Poroscopy”),
commented in his writings on elevated ridges on the fingertips and alluded to
diverse figures on palmar surfaces.
7. 1751-Hintzo wrote on the ridge formation, but dealt with the subject from the
viewpoint of anatomy rather than identification.
8. 1764-Albinus followed along the same lines as Hintzo had written.
9. 1788-J.C.A. Mayer stated in his book (Anatomische Kupfertafein Nebst Dazu
Geharigen) that although the arrangement of the skin ridges is never duplicated
in two persons, nevertheless, the similarities are closer among some individuals.
10. 1823-Johannes Evangelist Purkinje, (FATHER OF DACTYLOCOSPY) a
Czechoslovakian professor of anatomy at the University of Breslau, published a
thesis in Latin (Commentio de Examine Physiogico Organi Visus Et systematis
Cutansi – A Commentary of the Physiological Examination System: Dec. 22,
1823, Breslau, Germany) describing the ridges, giving them names and
established certain rules for classification (nine groups). He involves vague
differentiation of fingerprints or use them for identification.
11. 1856-Herman Welcker took the prints of his own palm. In 1897, (forty one years
later) he printed the same palm to prove that the prints do not change.
(Principle of Permanency).
12. 1883-Kollman, an anthropologist who wrote his book on ridges and pores. He
did not associate fingerprints with identification.
13. 1858-Sir William J. Herschel (FATHER OF CHIROSCOPY), in Hoogly, district of
Bengal, India, he used fingerprints in India to prevent fraudulent collection of
army pay account and for identification of other documents. He printed the
palms of natives in order to avoid impersonation among laborers. Prints of the
entire palms were used instead of signatures. The first person Herschel printed
appears to have been one RAJYADHAR KONAI.
14. 1880-Dr. Henry Faulds, an English (Scottish) doctor stationed in Tokyo, Japan,
wrote a letter to the English publication, “NATURE” – “On the Skin Furrows of
the Hand”, (dtd Oct. 28, 1880) on the practical use of fingerprints for the
identification of criminals. He recommended the use of a thin film of printers ink
as a transfer medium and is generally used today.
15. 1880-Sir Francis Galton, a noted British anthropologist and a cousin of scientist
Charles Darwin began observation which led to the publication in 1882 of his
book “Fingerprints.” Galton’s studies established the individuality of classifying
fingerprint patterns.
16. 1882-Gilbert Thompson, a U.S. geological surveyor in charge of a field project in
New Mexico used his own fingerprints in commissary orders to prevent forgery.
17. Isaiah West Taber – A photographer in San Francisco advocated the use of the
system for the registration of the immigrant Chinese.
18. 1883-An episode in Mark Twain’s life on the Mississippi relates to the
identification of a murderer by his thumbprint.
19. Twain (Samuel L. Clemens) further developed his theme. Eleven (11) years later,
he causes the publication of “Puddin Head Wilson”, a novel based on dramatic
fingerprint identification demonstrated during a court trial. His story pointed out
the infallibility of fingerprint identification.
20. 1888-Sir Edward Richard Henry, succeeded Sir William J. Herschel at his post in
India. He became interested in fingerprints and devised a classification of his
own and published his work in book form and titled it “Classification and Uses of
Fingerprints.”
21. 1889-Sir Richard Henry at Dove, England read a paper detailing his system
before the British association for Advancement of Science.
22. 1891-Juan Vucetich, an Argentinean police official, installed fingerprints files as
an official means of criminal identification; based his system of the pattern typed
by Sir Francis Galton; and he also claimed the first official criminal identification
by means of fingerprints left at the scene of crime.
23. In 1892, at La Piata, Argentina, a woman named Rojas who had murdered her
two sons and had cut her own throat, though not fatal, blamed the attack on a
neighbor. Bloody fingerprints on a door post were identified by Vucetich as
those of the woman herself which led to her confession.
24. 1892-Sir Francis Galton, an English Biologist, wrote his first textbook. He devised
a practical system of classification and filing. 1894-Sir Francis Galton’s report on
fingerprint as a method of identification, along with his system, was read at
Asquith Committee of London, England. His system was officially adopted on
February 12, 1894.
25. 1900-Alphonse Bertillon’s system of body measurement had by this time spread
throughout the world.
26. 1901-Sir Edward Richard Henry was appointed assistant commissioner at
Scotland Yard. His system was so applicable that Henry emerged as the “Father
of Fingerprints,” at least as the first man to successfully apply fingerprints for
identification. 1901-marked the official introduction of fingerprinting for criminal
identification in England and Wales.
27. The system employed was developed from Galton’s observation and devised by
Edward Richard Henry, the Inspector-General of Police in Bengal, India. He later
became commissioner of London’s Metropolitan Police.
28. 1914-Fingerprints were officially adopted in France, replacing Bertillon age.
29. 1882-Gilbert Thompson of the Us Geodetic survey used thumb print for camp
orders on an expedition to New Mexico. This was not official but it was proven
useful (the record was dated Aug. 8, 1882).
30. 1902-Sir Henry P. Forest, chief Medical examiner of New York Civil Service
Commission and an American preacher in fingerprint science in the US for the
New York Civil Service commission to prevent applicants from having betterqualified persons to take the test for them.
31. The New York Civil Service Commission, on Dec. 19, 1902 required all civil
service applicants to be fingerprinted. Dr. Henry P. Forest, put the system into
practice.
32. 1903-New York State Prison in Albany claims the first practical, systematic use
of fingerprints in the US to identify criminals.
33. 1903-Fingerprints identification was adopted in the following penitentiaries:
Singing Sing, Napanoch, Auborn and Clinton prisons
34. Captain James Parke of the institution installed the identification system where
the fingerprints of prisoners were taken and classified and the fingerprint system
was officially adopted in June of the year. Today, New York State uses the
American system that is similar to the Henry System and represents the system
initiated by Capt. Parke in 1903.
35. 1904-Maj. R. Mccloughry, the warden of the Federal Penitentiary of
Leavenworth when the office of the Atty. General of the U.S. granted permission
to establish a fingerprint bureau therein. It was the first national government
use of fingerprints.
36. 1904-John Kenneth Ferrer (Perrier) of the Fingerprint Branch of the New
Scotland Yard, attended the St. Louis Missouri Worlds Fair. He had been
assigned to guard the British Crown Jewels. American police officials became
interested in fingerprint through him and he became their instructor.
37. 1904-The City of St. Louis Missouri, became the first city to adopt fingerprint.
The police department officials adopted the system on October 29, 1904.
38. 1905-Fingerpritning was officially adopted by the U.S. Army. It was known as
the first military use of fingerprint.
39. 1907-Fingerprinting was officially adopted by the U.S. Navy (January 11, 1907).
40. 1908-Fingerprinting was officially adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps.
41. 1910-Frederick A. Brayley published what appears to be the first American book
in fingerprints.
42. 1911-The State of Illinois, made the first criminal conviction based solely upon
fingerprint evidence. It was known as the first judicial ruling on such evidence,
(People vs Jennings, 252 Illinois 543-96 NE 1007, 43 LRA (NS) 1206 for 1991).
43. 1915-The International Association for Criminal Identification was founded.
The word “criminal” was later dropped from the Association’s name. It is the
first organized body of professional identification experts.
44. 1916-The Institution of Applied Science established at Chicago, Illinois was the
first school to teach fingerprint identification (June 16, 1916).
45. 1916-Frederick Kuhne published a book entitled “The Fingerprint Instructor,”
which probably the first authoritative book in fingerprint to be circulated in the
U.S. Munn and Co., served as the publisher.
46. 1919-Marked the publication of “Fingerprint and Identification Magazine”
(Chicago). The first monthly journal devoted exclusively to fingerprint science,
(July 1919).
47. 1920-The Exceptional Arch, a new pattern, was adapted to Henry’s system by
American experts. The pattern was added after the study made by the assembly
members at annual convention of the International Association for Identification
in 1920.
48. 1922-Haken Jersengen, the sub-director of police in Copenhagen, Denmark
introduced first a long distance identification to U.S. at a police conference here.
The method was adopted and published in a magazine entitled “Publications” of
the International Police Conference, (New York City Police Department, 1932).
49. Mary K. Holland – the first American Instructress in Dactyloscopy.
50. 1924-The Identification Division of the FBI was established after J. Edgar Hoover
was appointed Director.
51. 1924-The book entitled “Single Fingerprint System” by T.K. Larson, was first
published in U.S., (Berkley, Police Monograph Series) D. Application and Co.,
New York City.
52. 1924-The First National Bureau of Identification was created by the act of
Congress. The bureau was established within the U.S. DOJ (Washington DC).
53. 1925-Harry J. Myers II installed the first official fact fingerprint system for infants
in Jewish Maternity Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.
54. 1925-The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania used compulsory foot and
fingerprinting of new born infants and mothers which was enacted into law by
Act of General Assembly as approved on April 20, 1925.
55. 1932-The International Exchange of Fingerprint date was initiated with a
number of other nations on February 15, 1932.
56. 1933-The Bureau of Identification, U.S. Department of Justice, adopted the
single fingerprint identification system. The first national use of single print for
identification purposes for certain crimes only, (Feb. 1933).
57. 1933-Latent fingerprints section, for making technical examination of latent
prints or have inked prints on an individual basis was instituted on November 10,
1933. The Civil Identification on Section was established.
58. 1937-The Institute of Applied Science installed Photographic and Firearms
Identification (Forensic Ballistics) laboratories. The institute was the first private
school in U.S. which installed laboratories for instructional purposes only.
59. 1938-A book by Harry J. Myers II, “History of Identification of fingerprints in
U.S.” was published in Fingerprint and Identification Magazine (Chicago, Illinois,
Vol. 20, no. 4, Oct. 1938).
60. 1946-the 100th millionth fingerprint card was received in the identification
division of the FBI. The total grew to 152 million in May 11, 1959.
61. 1967-“Minutiae” was initiated by the FBI, a computerized scanning equipment
to read and record fingerprint identifying characteristics.
62. 1972-the prototype automatic fingerprint reader was delivered.
63. 1973-implementation of the first phase of the automated Identification System
(AIS-1), which was to establish the database consisting of the name, description,
and criminal record of all first offenders with birthdates of 1956.
64. 1978-Journal of Forensic Science – reported that certain properties of
perspiration and body oils contained in latent print residue will luminesce
without pre-treatment and to a degree that photographs could be taken when
activated by continuous Argon-ION Laser. Hence, the FBI’s Latent Print
Detection System was put into use.
65. 1979-AIS-2 replaced AIS-1. This phase involved the automated searching by
name and other descriptor information of incoming fingerprint cards against the
database.
66. 1979 (Oct. 17, 1979)-A latent fingerprint was developed and lifted from the hand
of a victim in Miami, Florida murder resulting in identifying the suspect. This was
the first known case where a fingerprint from a human skin was used in the
identification, prosecution and conviction of a perpetrator of a crime.
67. 1982-Missing Children Act was signed into law which requires the Attorney
General to acquire, collect, classify, and preserve any information which would
assist in the location of any missing person (including an unemancipated person
as defined by the laws of the place of residence of such person) or assist in the
identification of any deceased individual who have not been identified.
68. 1983-Completion of the conversion of the FBI criminal fingerpint searching from
manual to automated searching. Also, AIS records became available by mail
upon request of the National Crime Information Center’s (NCIC’s) interstate
identification index (III) – an interstate record exchange.
69. 1984-AIS records became available “ON-LINE” through the NCIC program.
Records from the NCIC and AIS, and participating state and local
telecommunication networks became available w/in seconds to authorized
criminal justice agencies.
70. 1985 (Jan. 2) – a contract was awarded for building the final phase of the
Identification Division Automated System (IDAS).
71. 1989-IDAS implementation. Its features are: integrated document transport
equipment; on-line automated technical fingerprint search; and simplified
processing flow. All, for expeditious response time of fingerprint cards.
72. 1900-Mr. Jones was the first to teach fingerprints in the Philippines in the Phil.
Constabulary.
73. 1918-The Bureau of Prisons records show that carpetas (commitment and
conviction records) already bear fingerprints.
74. Under the management of Lt. Asa N. Darby during the American occupation in
the Philippines, a modern and complete fingerprint file has been established for
the Philippine commonwealth.
75. 1937-The first Filipino fingerprint technician employed by the Phil. Constabulary
was Mr. Generoso Reyes. Capt. Thomas Dugan of New York City Police
Department and Mr. Flaviano C. Gurrero of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
(FBI) gave the first examinations in fingerprints.
76. 1933-The first conviction based on fingerprints was handed by the Supreme
Court of the Phil. in the case People vs. Medina and this case is considered the
leading judicial decision in the Philippine jurisprudence concerning fingerprinting
(December 23).
77. The science of fingerprinting was first offered as a subject in the Philippines
through the effort of the Plaridel Educational Institution.
STUDYING FINGERPRINTS
What are the basic principles of Fingerprint Science? (3 dogmatic Principles)
1. Principle of Individuality (Variation) – There are no two fingerprints that are exactly
alike unless taken from the same finger.
2. Principle of Permanency (Constancy/Perennial/Immutable) – The configuration and
details of individual ridges remain constant and unchanging till after the final
decomposition of the body.
3. Principle of Infallibility – That fingerprint is a reliable means of personal identification
and all courts accept and adopt fingerprint as a means of personal identification.
Two main layers of the Skin?
1. Outer scarf or Epidermis
2. Inner Scarf or Dermis
John Dellinger, a notorious gangster and a police character, attempted to erase his
fingerprints by burning them with acid but as time went by the ridges were again restored to
their “natural” feature. The acid he applied temporarily destroyed the epidermis of the bulbs
of his fingers but re occur later.
Locard and Witkowsji of Lyons, who performed rather painful experiments on
themselves by burning their fingertips with boiling water, hot oil and hot metal had shown that
after the healing of the epidermis (outer skin), the original patterns of fingerprints reappeared.
FINGERPRINT CHARACTERISTICS AND FORMATIONS
Dactyloscopy – identification of persons through examination and comparison of
fingerprint. Taken from Greek words: Dactylos – a finger and skopien – to examine
1. Poroscopy – Science of sweat pores print identification.
2. Chiroscopy – Science of palm print identification.
3. Podoscopy – Science of foot print identification.
Pattern Interpretation
1. Arches – 5%
2. Loops – 60%
3. Whorls – 35%
Types of Ridge Formation?
1. Recurving ridge – is a ridge that curves back in the direction in which it started.
2. Converging Ridges – Two or more lines forming an angle, a ridge whose closed end is
angular and serves as a point of convergence.
3. Diverging ridges – Two ridges running side by side and suddenly separating, one ridge
going one way and the other ridge, another way.
4. Bifurcating ridges – A single ridge which splits into two ridges forming a “Y” shape
formation or structure.
5. Island, Eyelet, lake or Eye – it is a single ridge which bifurcates where the bifurcating
ridges converge at a certain point to form again into a single ridge.
6. Dot or Series of Dots – They are fragmentary ridges formed like a dot or dots.
7. Short or Series of Short Ridges – they are fragmentary ridges formed by short or series
of short ridges.
8. Ridge Ending - It is a termination or ending of ridge or ridges.
9. Fragmentary Ridges – They consist of disconnected sequences of short ridges embodied
intensely. These ridges are considered in the classification of fingerprints if they appear
as dark and as thick as the surrounded ridges within the pattern area.
10. Ridge Hook – It is a ridge that divides to form two ridges which are shorter in length
than the main ridge.
11. Ridge Bridge – This is a connecting ridge between two ridges.
12. Incipient or Nascent Ridge – This is a kind of ridge which is madly formed, thin, short or
broken which appears in the depressions between two well formed ridges.
13. Sufficient Recurve – The space between shoulders of a loop, free of any appendage, and
a butting at right angle.
14. Appendage – A short ridge at the top or summit of a recurve usually at right angle.
15. Core – It is a point on a ridge formation usually located at the center or heart of a
pattern.
16. Delta or Triradial Point – It a point on the first ridge formation at or directly in front or
near the center of the divergence of the type lines.
17. Envelop – Is a single recurving ridge enclosing one or more rods or bars.
18. Friction ridges – Are strips of skin on the inside of the end joints of our fingers and
thumbs by which fingerprints are made. They are also called papillary ridges or
epidermal ridges.
19. Furrows – Are depressions or canals between the ridges which maybe compared with
the low area in a tire tread.
20. Rod or Bar – is a single ending ridge at the center of a recurving ridge of a loop pattern.
21. Up thrust - Is an ending ridge of any length rising at a sufficient degree from a
horizontal place.
22. Dissociated ridges – are unusual ridge structures having no well defined patterns; the
ridges are extremely short, appear like a series of “patches” caused by a disturbance of
developmental process at early fetal life of the individuals.
23. Shoulder of a loop – It is that point at which the recurving ridge definitely turns or
curves.
24. Puckering – As growth ceases at several ends, the ends curl slightly.
25. Creases – Are thin, usually straight narrow white lines running transversely or formed
side to side, across the print, causing the puckering of the ridges.
26. Staple – Single recurving ridge at the center of the pattern area.
27. Spike – an ending ridge at the center of a pattern which forms the up thrust.
Type Lines and Pattern Area
1. Type line – basic boundaries of most fingerprints.
2. Pattern area – The part of the fingerprint which lies within the area surrounded by the
type lines.
Ridge counting and Ridge tracing
1. Ridge Counting – It refers to the process of counting the intervening ridges that touch or
cross an imaginary line drawn between the core and the delta.
Take Note - It applies only to loops.
2. Ridge Tracing – Is the process of tracing the ridges that emanate from the lower side of
the left delta towards the right delta to see where it flows in relation to the right delta.
Divisions of Fingerprint Patterns
A. LOOPS
1. ulnar
2. radial
B. ARCHES
1. Tented
2. Plain
C. WHORLS
1. Plain whorl
2. Central pocket loop whorl
3. Double loop whorl
4. Accidental whorl
RULES ON FINGERPRINT PATTERNS
1. Radial Loop - “R” - derived its name from the radius bone of the forearm; it is one type
of fingerprint patterns in which the ridges run its direction to the radius bone or to the
thumb.
2. Ulnar Loop is one type of fingerprint pattern in which the ridges flow toward the ulnar
bone or little finger. Ulnar loop therefore derived its name from the ulna bone of the
forearm, or little finger. Its symbol is letter “U” in classification purposes.
3. Plain Whorl - Symbolized by letter “W” in the classification. It is a fingerprint pattern
which there are two (2) deltas and in which at least one (1) ridge makes a turn through
one complete circuit, an imaginary line drawn between the two (2) deltas must touch or
cross at least one (1) of the circuiting whorl ridges within the pattern area.
4. Central Pocket Loop Whorl - Symbolized by letter “C “ in the classification. It is a
fingerprint pattern which for the most part of a loop, but which has a small whorl inside
the loop ridges, sometimes called a composite pattern, which means that it is made up
of two (2) patterns in one, a whorl inside a loop.
It has two (2) deltas, one of which appears as the edge of the pattern area, as in plain
loop. And one shows inside the pattern area just below the counterpart ridges.
5. Double Loop Whorl - Symbolized by letter “D” in the classification. A double loop whorl
is a pattern consisting of two (2) separate and distinct loop formations. One of the
loops surrounds or overlaps the other, also called COMPOSITE PATTERN, like the central
pocket loop whorl. It arises from the fact that these patterns are a composite or
combination of two 92) patterns in one, with two cores and two deltas.
6. Accidental Whorl - Symbolized by letter “X” in the classification. It is a pattern which is
a combination of two or more different types of pattern except in the PLAIN ARCH. It is
a pattern which is a combination of two or more different types of pattern except in the
PLAIN ARCH. It can be a combination of a loop and a whorl, a loop and a central pocket
loop whorl, or any combination of two or more different loops and whorl type patterns.
7. Plain Arch - Symbolized by letter “A” in the classification. It is a fingerprint pattern in
which the ridges enter on one side of the pattern and flow towards the other side with a
rise at the center with not more than one of the four (4) essential requisites for loop
pattern and with no recurving ridge, no angular formation and no upward thrust.
8. Tented Arches - Symbolized by letter “T” in the classification. It is a variety of arch
family, but their ridge formations are not simple as those of the plain arch, also
considered TRANSITIONAL PATTERN between a plain arch and a loop.
REAL FINGERPRINT IMPRESSIONS
Real Impressions - Impressions of the finger bulbs with the use of the printing ink on the
surface of the paper. Any other coloring materials may be used but less visible and indelible.
Methods of Producing Real Impressions
1. Plain Method.
2. Rolled Method
Equipment Used in Preparation for Taking Fingerprint using Slab and Roller Method
1. INKING PLATE – A 12 inches plate is long enough for most set of 0 fingers. The width of
the plate should not be less than 8 inches, ten (10) is a better width. A 10 inch plate is
also wide enough to ink a complete palm in one operation whenever it becomes
necessary.
2. CARD HOLDER – The simplest is a U-shaped spring clamp. Made of spring steel,
stainless steel or brass of gauge sufficient to hold its shape in heavy usage.
3. ROLLER – 6 inches long, and 2 inches in diameter. The handle should have supporting
posts or legs to suspend the rubber roller from developing flat sides and to keep unused
portions of the plate and table top from being smeared with ink.
4. INK - black printers ink is the most commonly used for taking fingerprint impression. It
is a consistency suitable for rolling into a thin film and it is quick drying when transferred
to a card as an inked impression. Yet it does not dry too fast. Usable for several hours
after a film has been rolled.
5. FINGERPRINT STAND – 32 inches high, the inking surface of a fingerprint stand should
be approximately 12 inches above the top of an ordinary desk making the printing
surface approximately 44 inches from the floor for the average person.
6. STANDARD EIGHT BY EIGHT INCHES FINGERPRINT CARD – It is found to be adequate for
receiving five rolled impressions across the card the size convenient for handling and
filing.
Rolled Impression – the subject must be relaxed
Plain Impression – the subject may not be relaxed
FINGER DISABILITIES THAT NEED EXTRA-ATTENTION IN TAKING PRINTS
1. Temporary Disabilities
a. fresh cuts or wounds or bandaged fingers
b. Occupational marks (dry skin) – carpenters, bricklayers, etc.
c. Excessive perspiration
2. Permanent Disabilities
a. lack of fingers – in-born or amputated
b. crippled fingers – bent or broken
c. deformities – webbed, extra fingers (poly dactyl)
d. old age
e. split fingers/thumbs
CHANCE FINGERPRINT IMPRESSIONS
Chance Impressions - These are fingerprints which are imprinted by mere chance or
without any intention to produce the print. Chance print may be
1. Plastic impression – impressions made by chance on cellophane tapes or any plastic
materials.
2. Visible prints – impressions made by chance and visible without chemical treatment.
3. Latent prints – impressions which are visible grossly but made visible by the addition
of some substances. These are fingerprints found at the scene of a crime.
CLASSIFICATION OF FINGERPRINTS
CLASSIFICATION IN GENERAL, in this context, refers to the sorting things into division or
group so that they can at later time be quickly located.
The steps in fingerprint classification?
1. Recording – Simply means the taking of fingerprint impressions, either rolled or plain
impression.
2. Interpretation – Simply means the naming or interpreting of a fingerprint pattern. Loop
(either radial or ulnar), Arch (plain or tented) or whorl (plain, central pocket loop) whorl,
double loop whorl or accidental whorl).
3. Blocking – This applies only to loop pattern either as ulnar or radial loop. It means
designating by symbol the type of patterns which each finger and thumb bears and
recording for each respective finger and thumb.
4. Classification – This refers to the classification proper this time you need a complete set
of ten (10) fingerprint patterns to obtain the necessary classification.
Important points to remember in classifying fingerprints
1. Division – for purposes of classification and filing, all the type patterns are divided into
two groups; the numeral and the non-numeral.
2. Numerical – the numerical group is composed of set of prints containing whorl pattern.
3. Non-numerical – the non-numerical group is composed of sets of prints in which no
whorls are present.
4. Fingerprint analysis – the analysis of fingerprint is the identifying and distinguishing of
fingerprint pattern according to their design and formation.
5. Classification formula – is the result of combining all the patterns of the fingerprints and
recording them in a specific order or manner at the top right of the fingerprint card. It
represents the patterns of all ten fingers of both hands combined.
6. Filing – is an orderly manner of starting the card and grouping each card and filing in a
specific sequence according to the final classification formula.
7. Pockets – the fingerprint cards are grouped according to the classification formula and
the classification of the extension used in the bureau.
8. Searching – means an attempt to locate in the file a print identical to the current print
and thus established identification.
9. Denominator’s meaning in primary classification – the denominator written below the
line constitute the total numerical value of the finger in which the whorls appear, is the
natural sequence of numbers from one to thirty two (1 to 32).
Symbols in Blocking?
FINGERPRINT PATTERN
Arches (Plain)
Arches (tented)
Radial loops
Ulnar loops
Plain Whorls
Central Pocket Loop Whorl
Double Loop Whorl
Accidental Whorl
INDEX FINGER
A
T
R or /
U or \
W
C
D
X
OTHER FINGERS
a
t
r or /
u or \
w
c
d
x
Take Note:
1. If a finger appears to be amputated (cut off) just place the symbol or simple
abbreviation as AMP and the date of amputation on the box of the finger actually
amputated.
2. In case of partial amputation, place the abbreviation symbol “TIP AMP”.
THE PRIMARY AND SECONDARY CLASSIFICATION
What is the Pure Henry System of Classification?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Primary
Secondary and small letter groups
Sub-secondary
Final
Major
Key
PRIMARY CLASSIFICATION
Procedure to be followed in obtaining primary classification
Numbering in natural sequence. The first step in classifying fingerprints is the
numbering of the finger and thumbs. The natural sequence, starting with the right thumb as
one and ending at the left little finger as ten is followed:
Right hand 1 2 3 4 5
Left hand 6 7 8 9 10
ODD FINGERS: The odd fingers are 1 (right thumb) 3 (right middle finger) 5 (right little
finger) 7 (left index finger) 9 (left ring finger).
EVEN FINGERS: The even fingers are 2 (right index finger) 4 (right ring finger) 6 (left
thumb) 8 (left middle finger) 10 (left little finger).
Numerical Value of Whorls - Designated Value of Each Finger with Whorls
The Henry system designated the value of whorl according to the finger or thumb on
which they appear, and in the following sequences.
Right hand
16
16
8
8
4
Left hand
4
2
2
1
1
Arbitrary count of one (1) ADDED - To each total, an arbitrary count of one is added. The
purpose of the arbitrary count of one is to avoid a classification of zero over zero in a set of
print in which no whorls appear; this might be mistaken for the letter “O” which has another
specific meaning in the classification.
Number of Possible Combinations in the Primary - There are one thousand and twenty four
(1,024) possible combinations of primaries, beginning with “one over one” and ending with
“thirty-two over thirty-two”
Take Note: After getting the Primary Classification, you must file the fingerprint in the
following manner:
1/1
- Lowest Classification
32/32 - Highest Classification
Illustration:
1. 1/1, ½, 1/3, ¼, 1/5, 1/6……………………….. 1/32
2. 2/1, 2/2, 2/3, 2/4, 2/5, 2/6 ……………………. 2/32
3. 3/1, 3/2, 3/3, ¾, 3/5, 3/6 ……………………… 3/32 TILL
4. 32/1, 32/2, 32/2, 32/4, 32/5, 32/6 ……..…….. 32/32
Rules on Amputation and Fingerprint Missing at Birth
1. If one finger is amputated (AMP) or missing at birth (FMB) the classification is based on
the opposite finger with the numerical value.
Take Note: The numerical value of the (AMP) FMB) must not be changed.
2. If both fingers are amputated or missing at birth they are treated as whorl with the
respective numerical value and with meeting (M) tracing.
SECONDARY CLASSIFICTION
Rank – The secondary classification follows the primary classification.
Position of Secondary – The secondary classification appears just to the right of the
fraction which represents the primary.
Meaning of Secondary – The numerator (WRITTEN ABOVE) indicates the type of pattern
appearing on the index finger of the right hand.
Denominator Meaning – The denominator (WSRITTEN BELOW) Indicate the type
pattern appearing on the index finger of the left hand.
Basic Types of Pattern that can Appear
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Arch (A)
Tented Arch (T)
Radial loop (R)
Ulnar loop (U)
Whorl (W)
Central Pocket Loop Whorl (C)
Double Loop Whorl (D)
Accidental Whorl (X)
Sequence - Just as in the sequence of the primary classification, in filing, the
denominator does not change until the numerator has exhausted all the changes of pattern in
their orderly sequence.
Small Letter Groups - The small letter group of the primary classification includes prints
having plain arches, tented arches and radial loops on fingers other than the indexes.
Importance of small letters - The absence of small letter groups are of vital importance
to the classification system as the small letter occurs relatively infrequently.
Frequency - The small letter groups, after the index fingers have been grouped (small) in
the following sequence:
1st: The denominator by count (the lesser number of small letters proceeding the
greater).
2nd: By position (small letter to the left of the index finger proceeding these at the
right).
3rd: By type (a,t, r).
SUB-SECONDARY AND FINAL CLASSIFICATION
Sub-Secondary – The sub-secondary classification is the grouping of prints according to
the ridge count of loops and ridge tracing on whorls.
Reason fort Subdivision – The sub-secondary classification is the group of print within
the secondary classification, thus facilitating searches since it limits the search to smaller
groups of the fingerprint cards.
Position of Formula – The sub-secondary classification is placed on the classification line
immediately to the right of the secondary classification
Recording Ridge Count – The ridge count of the loops are recorded as “I” (inner) and
“O” (outer).
Recording Whorl Tracing – The whorl tracing are recorded as follows:
INNER (I)
MEETING (M)
OUTER (O)
Fingers Considered - In the sub-secondary classification, six fingers are considered they
are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Right index finger
Right middle finger
Right ring finger
Left index finger
Left middle finger
Left ring finger
Established Number of Ridge Counts
INDEX FINGERS:
One (1) to Nine (9) ridges ……………………… I (Inner)
Ten (10) or more ridges ………………………… 0 (Outer)
MIDDLE FINGERS:
One (1) to Ten (10) ridges ……………………… I (Inner)
Eleven (11) or more ridges ……………………... O (Outer)
RING FINGERS:
One (1) to thirteen (13) ridges ………………….. I (Inner)
Fourteen (14) or more ridges……………………. O (Outer)
Loops and Whorls in Sub-Secondary - In a set of prints having loops and whorl only the
sub-secondary classification may include two (2), but not more than three (3) fingers of each
hand.
“M SYMBOL” - The symbol (M) meeting appearing in a sub-secondary classification,
indicates a whorl in the figures being considered, since only a whorl can have a meeting tracing.
“I” and “O” SYMBOL - The symbols “I” and “O” in a sub-secondary classification may
relate to a set of prints having loops and whorls or all loops or whorls. Whether the prints are
loops, whorls or loops and whorls may be ascertained from the primary classification since
“one” over “one” indicates no whorls, thirty-two indicates all whorls and other primaries
indicates both loops and whorls.
Filing: The filing of prints within the sub-secondary classification is done according to
the following sequences:
First – I (inner) in loops
Second – O (outer) in loops
First: I (Inner) in whorls
Second: M (meeting) in whorls
Third: O (outer) in whorls
As in all other components set of the classification formula, the denominator does not
change until the numerator has exhausted the entire sequence.
Summary of the Rules:
1. For AMP and FMB-Apply the rule on primary classification.
2. Whorl-Apply Ridge Tracing.
For loops (Ridge Counting)
Index Finger
1-9 ridge count…………………………………………………
10 or more……………………………………………………..
I (Inner)
0 (outer)
Middle Finger
1-10 ridge count………………………………………………
11 or more…………………………………………………….
I (Inner)
0 (outer)
Ring Finger
1-13 ridge count……………………………………………….
1(Inner)
14 or more ridge count………………………………………… 0 (outer)
For Arches
Use small letter (t) for tented arch.
Use small letter (a) for plain arch
If the index finger, middle finger, and ring finger are all plain arches just put three
dashes in the sub secondary classification and A2a in the Secondary Classification.
(Same is true when both index and middle fingers are the same).
If the index finger, middle finger and ring finger are all tented arches just put three
dashes in the sub secondary classification and T2t in the Secondary Classification. (same
is true when index and middle finger are the same).
For Whorl Tracing
Meeting (M) = 0, 1, 2, ridges either from the left delta or the right delta.
Outer (O) = 3 or more ridges below the right delta.
Inner (I) = 3 or more ridges above the right delta.
Take Note:
1. If the ridges in the whorl pattern is ulnar it is OUTER.
2. If the ridges in the whorl pattern is radial it is INNER.
a. Take only the loop excluding the whorl inside it.
b. Left Delta will always be the one to drop. And in counting its ridges include
ending ridges and bifurcation.
FINAL CLASSIFICATION
The final classification is the ridge count on the loop (ulnar and radial) appearing in the
right little finger.
Position - The final classification is indicated at the extreme right of the numerator.
No Loop in the Right Little Finger - If a loop does not appear in the right little finger, a
loop in the left little finger may be used. The little finger position in the formula remains
unchanged, except that the ridge count is noted as a denominator rather than as a numerator.
Importance of Final Classification - The final and the key classifications may be
considered the CONTROL FINGERS for filing and searching. They limit the number of the prints
to be examined each group.
Final not Possible - If the type pattern of either little finger is an arch, as a tented arch,
no final classification is obtained. This is indicated by a small dash (-).
MAJOR CLASSIFICATION
The major classification represents only the thumb of each hand. It is the ridge count of
the loop and/or the tracing of the whorl appearing in the thumb of each hand (if such whorls
appear).
Position - The major classification is placed immediately to the left of the primary in the
classification formula.
Right and Left Thumbs: Numerator and Denominator - The thumb of the right hand
appears in the classification formula as the numerator, and the thumb of the left hand as the
denominator.
Symbol for Major Classification - The major classification is written with specific
symbols, which indicates the respective patterns of the thumb as being either whorls or loops.
Ridge Tracing or Ridge Counting - These symbols are governed by the ridge tracing for
whorls or the ridge counts for the loops.
Symbols for Loops: S (small) in loops (ridge count); M (medium) in loops (ridge count);
L (large) in loops (ridge count).
Loops Pattern in Both Thumbs - In a set of prints having loop patterns in both hands,
the ridge count of the left thumb governs the symbol for the right thumb.
Left thumb ridge count
Right thumb ridge count
1 to 11 SMALL (S)
1 to 11 SMALL (S)
12 TO 16 MEDIUM (M)
17 or more LARGE (L)
12 TO 16 MEDIUM (M)
1 to 11 SMALL (S)
12 TO 16 MEDIUM (M)
17 or more LARGE (L)
17 or more LARGE (L)
1 to 17 SMALL (S)
18 TO 22 MEDIUM (M)
23 or more LARGE (L)
Either Thumb Missing - When the thumb is missing, the missing one acquires the same
pattern, ridge count, or ridge tracing as the thumb of the opposite hand. On this assumption,
the classification proceeds as usual. Since the left thumb, real or assumed, is the denominator,
it governs the classification, filing and searching.
Grouping the Prints - Because specific symbols have been given for loops and others for
whorls appearing on the thumb, the prints are grouped according to their respective patterns.
Sequence - The filing for prints follows definite within each group.
Denominator governs the sequence - As in all other groups, the denominator governs
the sequence and remains unchanged until the numerator has exhausted the entire sequence.
Sequence for Loops - Since the loops in the thumbs are indicated as small (S), medium
(M), and large (L), the sequence is as follows:
NUMERATOR
DENOMINATOR
SML
SML
SSS
SML
SSS
SSS
Sequence for Whorls - For the whorls in the thumbs indicated as Inner (I), meeting (M),
and outer (O), the sequence is as follows:
NUMERATOR
DENOMINATOR
IMO
IMO
III
IMO
III
III
Loop and Whorl in Major - When the whorl appears in one thumb and a loop in the
other, a specific sequence is used.
Reference: One Thumb Missing - Although a classification was obtained for one missing
thumb, (as described above), it is necessary to continue the search in all possible references.
The original pattern of the missing thumb might be different from the thumb of the opposite
hand.
Both Thumbs Missing - If both thumbs are missing, they arbitrarily acquire the
classification of meeting whorls, and no other reference searches are necessary. No major
classification is obtainable if one thumb pattern is plain arch or tented arch. Such print will
pertain to the small letter group (referring to the secondary classification).
Radial Loop on Either or Both Thumbs - The major classification is obtained if a radial
loop is present on either or both thumbs because a ridge count is possible. However, the print
will be filed with the small letter group.
KEY CLASSIFICATION
The key classification represents the ridge count of the right first loop appearing in a set
of prints, beginning with the thumb of the right hand but excluding the little finger.
Little Fingers Disregarded - The little fingers are totally disregarded in obtaining a key
classification, for they are exclusively used in the final classification.
Position - The key, no matter where it is found is always written at the extreme left of
the numerator.
Importance of the Key and Final Classification - The key and final maybe considered the
control figures for filing and searching. To limit the number of prints, it is necessary to examine
within a group.
Take Note: All answers obtained must be put/placed on the numerator of the key
classification. Write the Key at the Left of the entire formula, proceeding all other components
of the Classification Formula.
Little Fingers not used - If not used, the little fingers (regardless of their type patterns or
ridge count) as shown by the key for which they represent, are reserved for the final.
Key no loops - Make ridge count of whorl appearing in the thumb of the right at the
extreme left delta. This may be used as a key.
Key not possible - If the entire set of prints is composed of plain arches and tented
arches, the key cannot be obtained.
CLASSIFICATION OF SCARRED PATTERNS
Emphasis should be placed upon the necessity for fully referencing all scarred patterns.
In connection with their proper classification, the following rules should be observed:
CLASSIFICATION OF AMPUTATIONS AND FINGERS MISSING AT BIRTH
When one or more amputations appear upon a fingerprint card, it may be filed
separately from those having no amputations in order to facilitate searching. It is to be noted
that before it may be filed in the amputating group, the card must contain a definite and
unequivocal statement or marking by the contributor to the effect that a certain finger or
fingers have been amputated but which in reality were merely injured and bandaged when
previous prints were submitted.
1. If one finger is amputated, it is given a classification identical with that of the
opposite finger, including pattern and ridge count, or tracing, and referenced to
every other possible classification.
2. If two or more fingers are amputated, they are given classifications identical with the
fingers opposite, with no additional references.
3. If two amputated fingers are opposite each other, both are given the classification of
whorls with meeting tracings.
If all 10 fingers are amputated or missing at birth, the classification will be:
M 32 W MMM.
M 32 W MMM
If both hands are amputated or missing at birth, the footprints should be taken as they,
too, bear friction ridges with definite patterns. A footprints file is maintained by the FBI for
identification purposes in instances where the subject has all fingers amputated or missing at
birth.