Minimum points research

[Froghog]

I posted this on the onin forum but haven't had any luck with responses, so I will try here.

I am in the process of training in-house to become a latent print examiner, and I am completely stuck on this one question! In my research I have found that Germany requires a minimum of 12 points for identification, and Argentina 30 points. What I am trying to find out is - required by WHOM? Is it federal, state, city, etc. Any help on this is greatly appreciated! Thank you.

[Neville]

Hi FrogHog

most likely the fingerprint experts themselves, this is very old hat the only police I know of that require a given number is Ireland but I maybe out of date there, even the Russians don't.

Why not jump on google get the email adresses of the various Police and ask directly. I am sure Germany do not use the 12 point rule any more.

[Froghog]

Neville,

Thank you for responding! I will definitely try to get in contact with their agencies.

[JohnT]

We've just had a German Police Officer visit our section. Bearing in mind that she doesn't work in the Fingerprint Section in the German Police, she told me they required 7 points.

Another 'point' to consider - is it an 'identification' standard or a 'we'll give evidence in court' standard. For many years a self imposed court standard in NZ was 12 points, but identifications were made on less than 12. Now there is no minimum number of points required to make a positive identification and to present that evidence in court.

[Froghog]

John T,

Thank you for the information. This has definitely been a frustrating and confusing research question, and it's only the beginning!