The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Science of Fingerprints, by
Federal Bureau of Investigation
John Edgar Hoover

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Title: The Science of Fingerprints
Classification and Uses

Author: Federal Bureau of Investigation
John Edgar Hoover

Release Date: August 10, 2006 [EBook #19022]

Language: English

Character set encoding: ASCII

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THE SCIENCE

OF

FINGERPRINTS

Classification and Uses

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

John Edgar Hoover, _Director_

_INTRODUCTION_

This booklet concerning the study of fingerprints has been prepared by
the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the use of interested law
enforcement officers and agencies, particularly those which may be
contemplating the inauguration of fingerprint identification files. It
is based on many years' experience in fingerprint identification work
out of which has developed the largest collection of classified
fingerprints in the world. Inasmuch as this publication may serve as a
general reference on classification and other phases of fingerprint
identification work, the systems utilized in the Identification
Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation are set forth fully.
The problem of pattern interpretation, in particular, is discussed in
detail.

Criminal identification by means of fingerprints is one of the most
potent factors in obtaining the apprehension of fugitives who might
otherwise escape arrest and continue their criminal activities
indefinitely. This type of identification also makes possible an
accurate determination of the number of previous arrests and
convictions which, of course, results in the imposition of more
equitable sentences by the judiciary, inasmuch as the individual who
repeatedly violates the law finds it impossible to pose successfully
as a first, or minor, offender. In addition, this system of
identification enables the prosecutor to present his case in the light
of the offender's previous record. It