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FBI SPONSORS NEW (Reprinted from the May/June 1996 issue of the Journal of Forensic Identification) Fifteen invited representatives from local, state and federal agencies convened at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA, on June 20--21, 1995, to discuss the current status of various forensic aspects involved in friction ridge analysis. Based upon a consensus reached at this initial meeting, the Technical Working Group on Friction (R)idge Analysis, Study and Technology (TWGFAST) was established. Patterned after the successful TWGDAM concept, which has created significant guidelines and recommendations that have become an essential part of the quality required in DNA analysis, TWGFAST was organized to explore and promote the following stated objectives: 1. To provide guidelines for the latent print analyst's knowledge, skills and abilities; 2. To discuss, share and compare friction ridge analysis methods and protocols; 3. To encourage and evaluate research and innovative technology related to friction ridge analysis; 4. To establish and disseminate friction ridge guidelines for quality assurance and quality control; 5. To cooperate with other national and international organizations in developing standards; 6. To inform the latent print community of TWGFAST's studies, guidelines and findings. A second meeting of TWGFAST occurred at the FBI Academy on February 26--27, 1996, for additional discussion. At that meeting, Allyson Simons, newly appointed Section Chief of the FBI' s Latent Print Section, was selected to be the current chair, and Maggie Black, Orange County, CA, Sheriff's Office served as secretary. The TWGFAST representatives identified three areas of study as topics for an initial exploration by the working group, and formed committees to begin the process of gathering information related to these particular aspects. These three areas for immediate TWGFAST consideration are minimum qualifications for a latent print examiner or student, training to competency, and quality assurance. The committees will report their findings and recommendations to the entire group for discussion and debate. As part of the design of this technical working group, representation in TWGFAST will continue to expand in an effort to obtain the broadest possible range of input. Additional individuals will be invited to participate and other topics related to latent print examinations may be included for similar study in the future. The overall goal of the technical working group is the creation of published guidelines which can greatly assist in the standardization of latent print protocols, methods and procedures throughout the United States. Toward this end, TWGFAST has extended an invitation for official IAI representation at the next meeting, scheduled to be held April 30 through May 2, 1996. (Editor-- The April 30 -- May 2 meeting was held and plans for informing and obtaining widespread input from examiners nationwide were discussed. As a result, discussions will be held at IAI divisional meetings and wherever examiners meet. At the recent C.S.D.I.A.I. seminar in San Francisco, two discussions groups were held. At a future SCAFO meeting further discussions will be conducted. Plan ahead and prepare to contribute your ideas.)
This article was reprinted in “THE PRINT” |