AFIS Searches, Close Non-Matches, and Quality Assurance in Latent Print Comparisons
This session provides an in-depth analysis of the latent fingerprint comparison process and the risks inherent in relying too heavily on AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems). Viewers will gain critical insight into the variability and subjectivity involved in fingerprint analysis—especially in cases involving close non-matches (CNMs). The session explores how examiner differences in perception, decision thresholds, and methodology can significantly impact conclusions, with particular attention to real-world error rates and misidentification examples like the Brandon Mayfield case.
Dr. Heidi Eldridge explains how AFIS searches operate, what candidate lists truly represent, and why large databases increase the risk of false identifications. She outlines key discovery and testimony issues to probe during cross-examination and provides practical guidance on what to request—such as the number of candidates reviewed, verification protocols, and AFIS quality thresholds. Viewers will also learn how to use OSAC and SWGFAST standards to evaluate sufficiency decisions and frame effective challenges to fingerprint evidence.
Defense attorneys will leave this program equipped to identify when latent print conclusions may be more subjective than scientific, and how to use those vulnerabilities to raise reasonable doubt in court. The training emphasizes strategic questioning techniques, insider knowledge of AFIS limitations, and key indicators of overconfidence or improper bolstering by experts.
Dr. Heidi Eldridge has been in latent prints for 20 years and obtained her PhD in Forensic Science from the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. She is a Certified Latent Print Examiner with the International Association for Identification (IAI), served on its BoD for 6 years, and is currently 3rd VP. She peer reviews for the JFI, JFS, FSI, S&J, and LPR. She is currently Chair of the OSAC Friction Ridge Subcommittee, the ASB friction ridge consensus body, and FEPAC. Her research focuses on foundational issues of friction ridge examinations and human factors in forensic science. Dr. Eldridge frequently presents at national and international conferences on both fingerprint and testimony issues and has taught attorneys and judges at multiple trainings and in-services. She, along with Prof. Christophe Champod, recently completed revisions of the latent print scientific chapter for the new 3rd Edition of Modern Scientific Evidence, which is currently in press. After years as a practitioner and researcher, Dr. Eldridge is currently a forensic science professor and Director of Graduate Studies in crime scene at George Washington University.
CLE State Accreditation
- General 1.00
- General CLE-HI: 1.00
- General CLE-SD: 1.00
- General CLE-NY: 1.20
- General CLE-CA: 1.00
- General CLE-IL: 1.00
- General CLE-AK: 1.00
- General CLE-MD: 1.00
- General CLE-VT: 1.00
- General CLE-MA: 1.00
- General CLE-DC: 1.00
- General CLE-ND: 1.00
- General CLE-OR: 1.00
- General CLE-WA: 1.00
- General CLE-CT: 1.00
- General CLE-NH: 1.00
- General CLE-FL: 1.20
- General CLE-VI: 1.00
- General CLE-AZ: 1.00
CLE State Accreditation:
- General 1.00
- General CLE-HI: 1.00
- General CLE-SD: 1.00
- General CLE-NY: 1.20
- General CLE-CA: 1.00
- General CLE-IL: 1.00
- General CLE-AK: 1.00
- General CLE-MD: 1.00
- General CLE-VT: 1.00
- General CLE-MA: 1.00
- General CLE-DC: 1.00
- General CLE-ND: 1.00
- General CLE-OR: 1.00
- General CLE-WA: 1.00
- General CLE-CT: 1.00
- General CLE-NH: 1.00
- General CLE-FL: 1.20
- General CLE-VI: 1.00
- General CLE-AZ: 1.00
