Forensic experts in the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo are using the ForenScope 8K Latent Fingerprint Detection Tablet to detect invisible fingerprints at crime scenes and support the identification of suspects.
According to a report published by Tribuna Online, the technology assists forensic teams in investigations involving theft, residential and commercial burglaries, as well as homicides. The systems have reportedly contributed to the identification and apprehension of offenders.
Detecting Invisible Traces at the Crime Scene
ForenScope 8K enables forensic experts to search for fingerprints that are invisible to the naked eye on vehicles, walls, glass surfaces, and various objects. The system can be used both at crime scenes and in laboratory environments.
By scanning surfaces with the device, forensic teams can quickly identify areas requiring further examination. In some cases, fingerprints can be visualised without using brushes, powders, or chemical reagents.
An Approach That Supports Evidence Integrity
Contactless examination helps reduce the risk of damaging delicate fingerprints through physical intervention. It also supports the preservation of examined items for subsequent DNA testing and other forensic analyses.
The systems were acquired by the Espírito Santo Forensic Science Institute at the end of 2023 and became actively used by crime scene teams in 2024 following the completion of the required training. Officials state that ForenScope 8K complements existing forensic examination methods and supports teams during field investigations.
