I just watched a documentary on this case. In it the theory is posited that RF may have altered his finger prints. Does anyone have any thoughts on how feasible this is? TIA
Criminals use a variety of methods to alter their fingerprints, presenting challenges to law enforcement.
leb.fbi.gov
rbbm.
''A substantial number of individuals who altered their prints were arrested for drug-related offenses, followed in measure by immigration-related offenses, theft, and violent crimes. Nearly all of the individuals with intentionally altered prints had extensive criminal records and various law enforcement encounters. Many were deported criminals who altered their fingerprints in an attempt to reenter the United States.
The CJIS Division categorized the alteration types based upon the suspected method used to mutilate the fingerprint.
The alterations most frequently encountered were the vertical cut or slice, followed by the z-pattern cut, intentional burns, and unknown or uncategorized.
The vertical cut or slice modifies the fingerprint by scarring or distorting. Individuals cut down the middle of the fingertip, leaving a fairly straight cut on the fingerprint. In some instances an individual will pull the skin near the cut in different directions in an effort to generate an unusual fingerprint pattern when the fingertip heals.
The intent of the z-pattern cut is to scar and distort the natural fingerprint into an unnatural pattern. As with the vertical cut or slice, individuals cut the fingertip; however, in this case they cut a z-shaped pattern.
Using a heat or chemical source to burn the fingertip, the burn method is intended to scar or obliterate the print. If the affected area is small, fingerprint examiners can use other areas of the fingers that contain sufficient prints to attempt to establish identity.''
''When law enforcement agencies report altered fingerprints, they help CJIS significantly improve the knowledge base of print alterations and ensure a high rate of identification accuracy. The CJIS Division works with all levels of law enforcement to maintain an awareness of fingerprint modifications and improve measures for identification. Prior to submission, if the person taking the prints notices anything unusual with an individual’s fingers or fingerprints or if the print submitted is returned as an error, the fingerprinter should make a visual inspection of the print and contact the CJIS Division.''
