Holly McClure: I Shot A Man One Saturday In September

Holly McClure

I shot a man one Saturday in September, once in the forehead, again in the chest and for some reason once in the crotch. I had to do it. He was rushing us with a gun and I had a loaded Glock in my hand. Unfortunately, with the adrenalin rushing, I kept shooting as he dropped and put two more bullets in his spine and one in the back of his head, almost shooting off my partner’s thumb.

That firearms training simulator at the police academy in Greensboro NC is way too realistic.

At least I didn’t prevent a man from committing suicide by shooting him to pieces like Amie Flanagan did. She saw the poor guy go for his gun and starting firing. If I ever have a bout of depression, she will be the last to know.

Monday morning I still had the adrenalin rush from the Writers Police Academy in Greensboro NC.

I first heard about WPA from Lee Lofland’s Graveyard Shift blog and from writers who attended and couldn’t stop talking about it. Fellow Sullivan Maxx agent Amie Flanagan and I went this year to take pitches from writers and have a great time watching car chases, learning about snipers, investigating a shallow grave where the first clue was a stray finger, learn about guns, and more guns, and listen to some of the best stories I ever heard. Like they say, ‘you can’t make this stuff up.’ Loved meeting Marcia Clark and hearing about her special cases in real life as well as her fictional characters.

Marcia Clark and Holly McClure

And Katherine Ramsland was amazing.

Holly with Dr. Katherine Ramsland and Marcia Clark

I tried not to be a total fan-girl when I met Lee Child, but when you think of your favorite authors as rock stars, it isn’t easy to maintain the cool.

Holly and Lee Child

Holly McClure and Amie Flanagan with Lee Child

Beth Murray looks more like a fashion model than a woman who can dissect a mangled corpse without flinching. And C J Lyons, author and pediatrician, was a joy to meet.

Dr. Elizabeth Murray

And then, there was the Sheriff. Enough said.

Holly with Guilford County N.C. Sheriff BJ Barnes

And the deputy.

Professionals told us more than we wanted to know about auto erotic accidental death. We learned about evidence gathering, snipers, DNA evidence, crowd dispersal, canines, undercover work, and listened to awe inspiring stories about actual cases.

Amie and I took pitches from some excellent writers who cared enough about their craft to watch, listen, participate and take notes and it showed in the quality of their writing. Sisters in Crime and the library staff were amazing. I don’t see any way this could have happened without them.

I can’t say enough about the staff at the Police Academy, or the officers and departments who participated to make it a most memorable experience. You have my respect, ladies and gentlemen. See you next year.

*     *     *

Holly McClure founded Sullivan Maxx Literary Agency hoping to help a few Southern writers get published. Today the agency has five agents who represent writers from all parts of the country and work with most genres. She is a frequent speaker and teacher at writers conferences and workshops and loves to see new authors find success.

In May 2010, she completed several years of preparation and was ordained into the priesthood of the Celtic Christian Church.

Her writing career took a back seat while she nurtured Sullivan Maxx, but she has authored both fiction and non- fiction.

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Joya Fields: A First-Timer’s Experience at WPA

Joya Fields

Famous authors, FATS, driving simulators and workshops run by the top people in their fields. I’d heard so many wonderful things about the Writers’ Police Academy, so I signed up. As the date grew nearer, I got a little nervous. I didn’t know anyone. Me and one hundred and fifty strangers.

I didn’t have much time to feel lonely my first night at WPA because as soon as I registered at the hotel, I ran out the door for a police ride-along. A sheriff’s deputy from Guilford County kindly answered dozens of questions as he maneuvered through traffic. We answered a few calls—a garage burglary, a neighbor complaint, and a few traffic stops—but the best part was getting to know the deputy. He had great stories, and even opened up about the romantic way he’d met his wife.

The next morning we gathered for a talk about Jaws of Life (which first responders call “The Hurst”) and then scattered for various workshops. Let me tell you…hearing about the atrocities of human trafficking is quite a wake up call first thing in the morning.

I still hadn’t connected with many people aside from a nod or “is this seat taken” conversation, but that changed once I got to FATS.

My partner and I took on the role of armed police in a simulated exchange with a criminal. We learned about the quick decisions that police must make in a crisis situation.

After saying good-bye to my new friend/FATS partner Grace, I hurried to the parking lot to check out the “Live Demonstrations” area. The firefighters welcomed me aboard the huge ladder truck, and a friendly WPA recruit named Melissa asked me if I’d like her to take my picture.

Three of us strolled around the area together, taking pictures with the bomb squad, ATV police, accident investigators, and pretty much anyone we could question or have a photo op with.

At lunch, I made even more friends. Everyone was excited about their morning, and eager to share what they thought the best workshops were. EVERY workshop came highly recommended.

After lunch, I headed to a women’s personal safety and protection workshop taught by Dee Jackson. The woman is scary, smart and friendly at the same time.

She taught us strategies for getting out of possible situations, but mostly reminded us to use safe practices and trust our guts.

Later, I made another new friend at the driving simulator. Elizabeth and I were partners and took turns maneuvering through city traffic (and vehicles that didn’t pull over for us…just like real life) while driving to an emergency scene. We gained new respect for ambulance/fire engine drivers.

Back to the hotel, with barely enough time to wash my face, I hurried out of my room and into the hall where I met two YA authors, Erin and Elle, who invited me to hang with them. More friends! After some easy conversation, we listened to the amazing Katherine Ramsland about how to train our brains to work better. I immediately put her book on my “must read” list.

The next morning, we witnessed a mock car chase, complete with bad guys, sirens, and a police-involved shooting. Very realistic!

The morning workshops flew by as I learned about processing a crime scene and drug interdiction. Amazing to learn of the hiding places criminals use for contraband. Even a baby’s car seat!

After lunch—where I recognized almost everyone around me—I met a four-legged law enforcement member: K-9 dog, Joy. She demonstrated her skills, and then mingled with the crowd of recruits and garnered a new fan base.

Ever wonder what it’s like to be an undercover cop? “Anatomy of an Undercover Cop” taught me you need a lot of guts to pull off that job. Later, Marcia Clark spoke about her experiences as a lawyer. Everything from the jury selection process to investigations. At the evening reception, we met Lee Child, author of the popular Jack Reacher series. He told us a story and assured us that suspense/mystery/thriller writers are the fast-paced center of the book industry. A special appearance by “Barney Fife” and his one bullet made the night even more special.

The next morning, lots of the workshop presenters took part in a casual question and answer session. Usually, by the end of a conference, I’m tired and ready to head home.    Not this one. I was sad when it was time to leave my new friends and leave the place where I’d learned so much.

Some advice for first timers at WPA: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, ask, lots of questions, and be prepared to make lots of new friends. Then mark your calendar for next year’s WPA because once you attend, you’ll want to go back every year. Thanks, Lee Lofland, for organizing this conference full of instructors who love what they do, and who love sharing what they know.

*     *     *

Joya Fields has had over 100 stories and articles published in local and national magazines and her debut novel, BENEATH THE SURFACE, a romantic suspense, released in January, 2012. LOVE DELIVERED, a contemporary romance, is also now available.

Over the years, Joya has taught arts and crafts, worked in public relations, owned a daycare center, helped her children raise prize-winning 4-H livestock, competed in three marathons, and even spent a year as a Baltimore Colts cheerleader. Joya loves spending time with her high school sweetheart/husband of over twenty years, two very supportive children, and a pug who follows her everywhere. www.joyafields.com

Find Joya:

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=joya+fields

Goodreads Author Page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5395700.Joya_Fields

Twitter: @joyafields

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/JoyaFieldsAuthor

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WPA 2012 – A Rookie’s View

WPA a rookies view
The Writers Police Academy is everything the name says it is. And more. It’s for writers, taught by cops, special agents, emergency personnel, and folks with doctorate degrees. Its purpose is to give writers the opportunity to ask experienced professionals in the law enforcement field questions that may raise the eyebrows of others. Who else are you going to ask if a body bag has a weight limit? The WPA provides a hands-on experience so we writers can get it right. It may be fiction, but it still has to be believable. The WPA is not just fast paced. It’s fast paced! It’s two full days of running on pure adrenaline. It’s being so tired when you finally hit the sack, you can’t sleep because you can’t turn your mind off. I’ve offered some tips on how to prepare, and how to return to your previous life after such an experience. But I’m not sure that’s possible. You’ll never look at blood drops the same.
How to prepare:

• Mega doses of B vitamins. You know, the ones that give you energy?

• Hone your visualization skills. Lee likes to, um, demonstrate directions to various buildings. Mental note for next year – add soundtrack and BAM, viral dance video! At least he uses the terms “left” and/or “right”, none of that north, south, east or west stuff cops like to use. Just tell me to turn left.

• More vitamins.

• Wear comfortable clothes. And shoes. Nothing worse than searching with heels on for a dead body in the woods.

• Coffee

• Bring a notebook, notepad, laptop, bar napkin – anything you can write on. No, there’s not a test afterward, but you will want to take notes on how to uncover that dead body in the woods. You know, just in case you’re ever in need of that information. Interesting conversation starter. Probably wouldn’t recommend it for a first date.

• Some classes are so popular, be prepared to sit on the floor. Wear deodorant.

• More vitamins

• Sleep aide to counter act all the vitamins and coffee. But not a real strong one. The buses leave at 7:30. In the morning. Yawn.

• More coffee

• Watch hours of cop shows on television so you’ll understand why Dave Pauly rolls his eyes when you mention one in class.

How to decompress:

• When you arrive home, walk the dog. Rub the cat (if allowed). Do anything necessary to return to your pre-WPA life.

• Attempt to take a much needed nap. After an hour of new plot twists slamming around inside your head, give up. Write down said plot twists.

• Check Facebook. Send friend requests to everyone you met at the academy. Except the bartender. They’d probably rather forget you.

• Reconnect with wife/husband/partner/kids and actually show interest in what they did while you were gone. While they’re talking, stop wondering if civilians can actually order a body bag from SIRCHE. I mean, seriously? What are you going to do with it?

• Re-watch hours of same cop shows and laugh. Then roll your eyes. Make Dave proud.

WPA instructor Dave Pauly and The Mayberry Deputy (actor David Browning)

*     *     *

Today’s article was written by Lynn Chandler-Willis. Lynn is the author of the True Crime story, Unholy Covenant (Addicus Books, 2000, re-titled The Preacher’s Son and re-released by St. Martin’s) and the upcoming novel, The Rising (Pelican Book Group, 2013.) She’s the former owner/publisher of a small town newspaper where she came to truly believe fact is stranger than fiction. She was born, raised, and continues to live in North Carolina.
You can visit Lynn at www.lynncwillis.com
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Andy Russell Talks Garrity: When Officers Have The Right To Remain Silent

Andy Russell talks Garrity

Simply, Garrity is the equivalent to the Miranda Rights for an officer being questioned regarding actions, violation of department policy, or misconduct that may also result in criminal prosecution or departmental disciplinary action.

The Garrity rule goes by several different names, including, the Garrity Right, the Garrity Law, the Garrity Rule, the Garrity Advisement or the Garrity Warning. The name used is a matter of choice, depending entirely upon the region of the country, or the individual organization/agency.

An officer invoking the Garrity rule is bringing into play his or her right against self-incrimination when faced with having to answer questions about his/her activities in relation to their employment—questions that involve a violation of law or department polices, and/or, questions in relation to an administrative investigation involving a citizen-initiated complaint. Statements made after invoking Garrity may only be used for departmental investigation and administrative purposes, and not for criminal prosecution purposes, with some exception.

The Garrity Rule stems from the court case Garrity v. New Jersey, 385 U.S. 493 (1967), which was decided in 1966 by the United States Supreme Court. The case involved traffic-ticket-fixing.

Officers in the Garrity case were told they had to answer questions, an act that subjected them to criminal prosecution, which was a direct violation of the right against self-incrimination (their Fifth Amendment Rights). A refusal to answer questions, they were told, would result in the loss their jobs. The Court held that compelling officers to answer questions under the duress of “losing their jobs” and giving up their right against self-incrimination was coercive and therefore unconstitutional. Being a police officer does not require one to waive their Constitutional protections.  Police officers are citizens first, officer second.

There are two points under the Garrity rights:

First, if an officer is compelled to answer questions as a condition of employment, the officer’s answers and the fruits of those answers may not be used against the officer in a subsequent criminal prosecution. However, this protection may not cover other officers implicated by the officer being questioned. Only the officer(s) invoking their Garrity rights are protected from criminal prosecution.

Second, the department becomes limited as to what they may ask. Questions must be specifically, narrowly, and directly related to the officer’s job.  Also, the behaviors or actions must be governed by departmental policy, such as misconduct, failing to follow use of force policy, operation of a patrol vehicle (speeding), etc.  Yes, one’s actions can be justified under the law, as having the legal right to take an action, such as using force, but they still may be in violation of departmental policy dealing with how, when or the amount/type of force should be used and how it can be used..

You ask: How can this be? Answer: For example, officers may lawfully defend themselves against an attack. And, legally, they may use whatever force is necessary to stop the threat. However, individual department policy may limit which tools the officer may use in a given situation. For example, using a baton to strike an attacker may be perfectly acceptable in Department A. But what about other objects? Sure, using the baton is okay, since Department A’s officer-training covers the use of a baton as an impact weapon. But, if the Department A officer chooses to strike the suspect with an unauthorized tool, say, a Kel-light (aluminum flashlight), or a brick, the officer may very well be in violation of their agency’s policy  prohibiting striking with an object other than the “authorized” tools.

Thus, the basic idea of the Garrity Rights or Garrity Rule is that a department member may be compelled to give statements under threat of discipline or discharge but, those statements may not be used in the criminal prosecution of the officer giving the statement. Other officers may be subject to prosecution, as someone else, a second or third party, is not protected by the invoking officer’s use of Garrity.

*The Garrity Rule only protects a department member from criminal prosecution based upon statements he or she might make under threat of discipline or discharge, not a third party).

The Garrity Rule is not automatically triggered simply because questioning is taking place. An officer must ask for protections under Garrity.  If an officer is giving a written statement, the officer should insist that the Garrity Warning be typed into the body of the statement.  Many officers elect to consult with an attorney, or a union delegate before providing any statement. If the investigation is purely administrative (not criminal), the right to an attorney is not guaranteed.

Here is an example of an actual Garrity Warning used in some agencies when the investigation involves a criminal matter. An investigation covering an administrative matter, would not invoke the DA, or Miranda.  Remember, there is NO universal policy, or procedure, as long as the procedure used meets the element of the law/case law. Much like when officers provide Miranda Warnings to criminal suspects, many agencies use a “standardized” form for Garrity. Court say the rights (Garrity) must be given, but they did not demand that it be done in a particular format.  Also, if the investigation is of an administrative nature and criminal activity is discovered during the Garrity-covered questioning, those potentially incriminating statements cannot be used against the officer in future proceedings.

 

Garrity

(Note: Some agency might refer to these as “Administrative Rights”, rather than Garrity Rights, particularly if the statement/investigation is a departmental rule violation, rather than a criminal investigation.)

1.  I am being questioned as part of an investigation by this agency into potential violations of department rules and regulations, or for my fitness for duty. This investigation concerns

_ (the rule would be cited here, i.e.) Conduct unbecoming, a violation of Center City police Department Directive, 2.165: Conduct of Employees while on duty… sleeping on duty, etc…

2.  I have invoked my Miranda rights on the grounds that I might incriminate myself in a criminal matter. (Only used in an investigation involving criminal activity)

3.  I have been granted use immunity. No answer given by me, nor evidence derived from the answer, may be used against me in any criminal proceeding, except for perjury or false swearing.

(Only used in an investigation involving criminal activity)

4.  I understand that I must now answer questions specifically, directly and narrowly related to the performance of my official duties or my fitness for office.

5.  If I refuse to answer, I may be subject to discipline for that refusal which can result in my dismissal from this agency.

6.  Anything I say may be used against me in any subsequent department charges.

7.  I have the right to consult with a representative of my collective bargaining unit, or another representative of my choice, and have him or her present during the interview.

No. 7 is only for those states which are union shop states. It would not be part of a statement when an agency is in a right-to-work state, i.e. North Carolina.

Assistant Prosecutor/Deputy Attorney General Authorizing:  __________________________

(Would only be involved if a criminal violation was the focus of the investigation.)

Signature:________________________________

Date:_______________ Time:_____________

Location:_________________________________

Witnessed by:  ______________________________

______________________________

*     *     *

Andy Russell served as a police officer for thirty years. Currently, he is an Associate Professor in Criminal Justice at Guilford Technical Community College. Andy has an Associates in Applied Science in Criminal Justice from the Community College of the Air Force, and a Bachelors in Applied Science in Justice Policies and Studies from Guilford College. Additionally, he has a Masters of Science in Adult Education & Leadership from North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University. Andy received and maintains certifications in Advanced Law Enforcement and the Administrative Officers Management Program from North Carolina State University. He is a certified North Carolina Instructor in Basic Law Enforcement Training and Firearms. He is also a Certified Instructor in Chemical Munitions, O.C. Spray, Distraction Devices and Specialty Impact Munitions.

Andy Russell also serves as a Writers’ Police Academy instructor, teaching workshops on interview and interrogation, FATS, riot control, O.C. spray, and others.

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Michelle Johnson: My Undercover Excursion into the Crimefighters’ Den

Michelle Johnson: Undercover

I didn’t know what I was in for when I signed up for the Writer’s Police Academy, only that it looked like a ton of fun and that I would be able to experience a lot of new things. I left with a lot of new story ideas, some new friends, and a much deeper understanding of the life of law enforcement officers and the decisions with which they are faced.

During one session, I sat in the room with a retired undercover narcotics officer. I thought, ‘Hey, I’m undercover, too. It’s almost the same thing.’ You see, I didn’t tell anyone I was a literary agent. I went there for me, as a writer and as a person who has always had an intense fascination with the workings of the system, not to scout potential clients.

The undercover officer went on to explain how he had to camouflage himself to look like a junkie, how he had to go into incredibly volatile situations with a clunky wire strapped to his back and no weapon to try to buy drugs and bring the bad guys down.

‘Sure,’ I thought, ‘I could be found out, too. It would be nearly as dangerous – all those authors, and just me, one agent, sure to be swarmed and not even be able to go to the bathroom without a manuscript sliding under the wall of the stall.’ All those writer junkies. We’ve all heard the stories, right?

Well the funny thing was, everybody else there was just like me. Wanting to blend in, to observe, and to learn everything they could. I didn’t tell many people who I was and almost nobody asked. It was a bizarre twist of “Don’t ask, don’t tell.”

With good reason. With so many professionals around, giving us their time, experience, and knowledge, all anyone wanted to do was pay attention. And pay attention we did.

The first session I attended was “Human Trafficking.” I thought it would be a great plot or subplot in one of my Detective duo’s future books. Now I think it will be the main story.The hard realities I learned in that class will stay with me forever, as will the haunted look in the instructor’s eyes. I know he didn’t burden us with the harshest realities of his job, but you could see it written all over his face. The few things he did share will stay with me forever.

Waiting to enter the FATS room

During my Fire Arms Training Simulator (FATS) session, I had to face an eleven-year-old girl armed with a shotgun and aimed it directly at my partner. In a millisecond I had to choose between shooting a child and the death of my partner. Just like that.

I took the shot.

You can’t truly understand what that horrifying moment is like, until you have to make that choice yourself.

I’ll be going back next year for sure. Experiences like that combined with the insight offered by the instructors are priceless, and I have been forever changed by all of it. Maybe I’ll get in on the prison tour and the driving simulator. Even if I don’t, I know I’ll get my money’s worth, and then some.

As an agent, the one thing I did learn is that if I get a query in for a mystery, detective novel, or any fiction involving law enforcement, and that writer tells me that they attended the WPA, it will mean something to me.

It will mean that author is serious about their work, willing to do the research, and probably has a lot of unique insight woven throughout their novel. And that will definitely get them a closer look.

*     *     *

Michelle L. Johnson fills many shoes in the literary world.

She is a literary agent. She is a Jr. Literary Agent working with and learning the business from Marisa Corvisiero, Esq. at the Corvisiero Literary Agency.

She is an author. Her debut novel, The Footloose Killer was released March 2012. She is working on the sequel, and has several other writing projects on the go.

She is an editor. Working with other authors coaching and collaborating is something Michelle excels at, and works with both independent clients as well as a small, independent press and a small publishing house.

 

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Handwriting Expert Shelia Lowe Takes On Batman Shooter James Holmes

Shelia Lowe v. Batman

When it emerged last week, the handwriting of the young man who murdered 12 and wounded 58 in the Aurora movie theater massacre was no surprise to me. It confirmed what I had suspected after listening to the scraps of his story made available in the undeniably unreliable media.

Although I am not licensed to make a medical or psychological diagnosis, I am qualified to describe behavior as it manifests in handwriting. Before saying anything about the writing sample, however, I have to state very forcefully that no single element, letter, or stroke of handwriting means anything by itself. Just as you see the whole person, not a collection of body parts, the writing must be viewed as a whole entity in order to understand the writer. Secondly, many people share handwriting characteristics with Holmes, but they will never plot mass murder because those characteristics are put together differently. In other words, context is everything.

What Holmes’ handwriting reveals in this small sample is that at the time of writing he was literally going to pieces. His writing is simplified, which indicates good intelligence. It switches between styles—printing/writing/printing—not in itself a red flag for danger, but the way he does it in this sample demonstrates volatility. In addition, the breakdown of forms in the area handwriting analysts refer to as the “middle zone” points to serious problems.

The middle zone is the area where you find vowels, s,m,n, etc., the parts of letters that don’t ascend or descend. It represents, among other things, one’s ego; it’s where you live. When the middle zone breaks down or “threads out,” it’s a symptom of one who is losing touch with reality. The ego is so stressed that he can’t take anymore. (Please understand, these comment are in no way intended to excuse his actions, but simply to describe what was going on inside him when he wrote in his notebook.)

An important element of handwriting is the degree of pressure exerted by the pen on the paper. Although we cannot tell the absolute pressure from a photocopy, the writing in this sample appears to be extremely light-pressured (“extremely” is the keyword). What is true of such personalities is that they have trouble seeing the whole picture. Everything seems to crowd in on them and their perspective is negatively affected. People with very light pressure cannot afford to allow emotional situations to affect them too deeply because they don’t have the emotional resources to deal with them. They skim the surface of life as much as possible, not dealing with problems until they build up such a head of steam that finally, something’s got to give. When the pressure varies a great deal, the writer tends to become carried away by his emotions.

Another area that points to problems is in the lower zone—the strokes that descend below the middle zone: the loops on g,y,p, etc. In Holmes’ writing, these strokes pull to the left, back toward the past, toward mother. People who do this have been shown to have a very strong need for nurturing (“looking for mothering”). But in addition, in the middle paragraph, line 3, first word—not sure what it says, but it appears to start with a “g” that looks like a hook and is badly malformed. This type of form is often used by people who live with a great deal of unexpressed anger and frustration.

In the word “back,” 3rd paragraph, 1st line, the “k” is split into two separate parts that don’t touch. Research has shown that, along with other characteristics, such as mixing certain types of printed and cursive writing, split forms are seen in those who have social problems and who tend to be impulsive and unfocused. That is, lacking the capacity to properly handle stress or make good moral judgments, such a person is likely to do whatever it takes to relieve the pressure.

In Holmes’ case, no one, including a handwriting examiner, could predict that he would do what he did. It’s possible that he is, as the media reports, a diagnosed schizophrenic, in which case, if he was unmedicated, he may well have been hearing voices telling him what to do. If so, that will come out in court. But one thing a handwriting examiner could have said in advance: his handwriting displays definite red flags for pathology.

Sheila Lowe has a Master of Science in psychology and is a court-qualified forensic handwriting examiner. She is licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences in the state of California to provide continuing education to marriage and family therapists. She is also the author of the Forensic Handwriting Mysteries and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Handwriting Analysis, among many other works.

www.sheilalowe.com – www.claudiaroseseries.com – www.superceu.com

*As always, the opinions and views shared by guest bloggers are not necessarily those of The Graveyard Shift.

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15 Libraries Taking Summer Reading to the Next Level

15 Librairies

Summer reading programs have long been a staple of library activities in communities all across the nation, yet many libraries today are offering much more than the usual programs that encourage young kids to read by tracking their progress and offering rewards. Today, many reading programs are accompanied by seriously cool reading and education-related events and there are numerous reading programs targeting adults and teens, pushing whole families to enjoy a few good books over the summer months. While not an exhaustive list (there are a lot of amazing libraries out there), here we highlight some of the libraries we think are going above and beyond in their summer reading initiatives, offering programs and activities that help readers spend their summers reading, learning, sharing, and growing.

  1. Framingham Public Library:

    Framingham Public Library has a great summer reading program for keeping young minds engaged during their break from school, but where it really stands out is in what it has to offer adults. In recent years, the library has developed summer reading programs that target adults, offering additional entries in a raffle for every book they read. Readers log their books, which are of their own choosing, and at the end of the summer can get a chance to win a grand prize: a new Kindle. The library also sponsors other adult-focused events over the summer, including screening foreign films and hosting lectures on topics like super heroes and mythology.

  2. The Charles H. Stone Memorial Library:

    When kids sign up for the summer reading program at this North Carolina library, they get a whole lot more than just motivation to read. The library has incorporated a number of fun and exciting events into their summer reading program. These include a mobile space lab, yoga classes for kids, magic shows, nighttime parties for tweens, and plenty of fun activities for teens. Kids of any age can also compete to see who can read the most books, with a cash prize to the winner.

  3. Pima County Public Library:

    From the end of May until the end of July, patrons of this Arizona library can enjoy a reading program that offers incentives and fun for readers of all ages. Readers track their progress throughout the summer in a reading passport and can take part in a huge assortment of activities at the library. Adults can learn more about native plants, taking photos, or even how to paint landscapes; teens get access to events on anime, cardio kung fu, and superheroes; and younger kids can enjoy juggling shows, story time, and rocket-building activities. All in all, there are more than 100 different activities for readers over the summer that can make a quick trip to this library a real adventure.

  4. Metropolitan Library System:

    This library system in Oklahoma offers patrons some seriously amazing ways to beat the summer heat and have fun. What’s on the docket? Magic shows, steampunk-themed exhibits, business building classes, wizard rock shows, and a gnome hunt. The summer reading program throughout the library system offers a chance for everyone from toddlers to teens to get reading over the summer, with games and prizes for all involved.

  5. New Orleans Public Library:

    Kids who are lucky enough to live close to this library can take part in a fun reading program that motivates them with small incentives to keep reading throughout the summer. When they’re at the library picking out some new reads, they can also enjoy activities like a presentation on birds of prey, complete with live birds, as well as magic shows, interactive bug presentations, and more. Older kids and teens can enjoy poetry and drama workshops, movie and game nights, and even fun crafts. The summer programs must be doing something right, as this year the library recorded 3,260 kids and almost 500 teens signed up.

  6. Newton County Library:

    Kids and adults alike can find activities to get them reading and learning over the summer at Newton County Library in Georgia. Through the end of July, kids can sign up and pledge to read at least 15 minutes a day, with those meeting the goal winning free books and gift certificates. They can also head to the library to hear storytellers, read books under the stars (with a flashlight, of course), and other activities. Adults shouldn’t feel left out, however, as the library also has plenty planned for them. There are lunchtime book clubs, poetry reading groups, bridge clubs, and other activities to help motivate adults to read, read, read during the summer.

  7. Indianapolis Public Library:

    This year’s reading program at the IPL is called Gear Up for Good, and it’s open to toddlers, young kids, teens, and parents. All can earn points and rewards for reading, even parents when they read aloud to their kids. So what makes this program stand out? A couple of things. There’s an amazing children’s book blog full of recommendations, an earn-and-learn program to help youngsters pay off library debt, and loads of educational programs, from science to steampunk, for teens and younger kids. Even better, each week the library screens a family friendly movie that all can enjoy.

  8. Fort Worth Public Library:

    At this Texas library, readers aren’t just challenging themselves. They’re also working to take part in the Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge, which is open to participants of all ages and offers some pretty snazzy prizes for the winners. In addition to really pushing reading during the summer months, Fort Worth also brings in patrons with a number of exciting and fun activities, including storytellers, parties, art exhibits, games, movies, and even a jazz festival.

  9. Harris County Public Library:

    Harris County Public Library is working to build a “reader nation” with their summer program, in part by not just focusing on younger readers. At Harris, patrons can take part in adult summer reading programs as well, which have enjoyed great popularity since it was implemented last year (an 81% jump in participation). What makes it so cool? Participants can get recommendations and share their thoughts through the ReaderNation blog or from a personal reading consultant. The more books patrons read, the more chances they get to be entered in drawings for really great prizes. Teens and kids can also get in on the fun through their summer-long reading program and activities as well.

  10. Clermont County Public Library:

    Featuring the theme of “Read: Morning, Noon, and Night” this year, the reading program at this Ohio library is a great way to help get kids reading and having fun while doing it over the summer. There are four different age-leveled programs at the library, all of which offer fun prizes and rewards to kids who make it through multiple books over the summer, including an iPad for teen readers. One of the coolest aspects of the program is its digital integration, as there are blogs, booklists, tweets, and Facebook updates on all activities, and kids and parents can sign up and track their reading online.

  11. Findlay Hancock County Public Library:

    Findlay Hancock County Public Library is another library that’s helping to get adults in on the summer reading fun. Since 1993, the library has offered a summer reading program for adults, both to get them reading and to help them set an example for younger readers. In addition to tracking their reading, the library offers adult readers discussion groups, programs on wildlife, and classes on topics like scrapbooking, jewelry making, and even basket-weaving.

  12. New York Public Library:

    You know this library’s summer reading program is massive: the website for it is simply called “summerreading.org.” This year, the New York Library system alone logged almost 23,000 registrations for the program, not including those in Queens or Brooklyn. So many flock to New York’s reading programs in the summer because they have a lot of offer. Children, teens, and adults can sign up online and find books, write reviews, track reading, create booklists, earn badges, and build an online profile. Even more enticing are the activities that libraries throughout New York city host. From chess games to films and video games to knitting circles, there’s something for everyone.

  13. Aiken County Public Library:

    What’s cooler than being able to win prizes for reading? At Aiken County Public Library, kids can meet creatures big and small from the local River Ecology Lab, take part in a Star Wars family fun night, embrace creativity in an abstract painting class, watch puppets, learn about chocolate, and much more. Of course, the reading is a pretty great motivator, too, and kids and teens can read their way to a number of great prizes through the end of July at the library.

  14. Seattle Public Library:

    In order to celebrate the anniversary of the 1962 World’s Fair in Seattle, the summer reading program this year is called “Read the Future” and is open to children, teens, and adults. Readers young and old can sign up online for the program, where they can collect badges for the books they’ve read and can review books they like or didn’t like. Even better, the more reviews they post, the more chances they’ll get to be entered in grand prize drawings. In addition to the fun online offerings, the library also offers a wealth of activities throughout the summer including movie nights, grown-up story times, operatic performances, readings, and lectures on science and literature topics.

  15. San Antonio Public Library:

    Like Fort Worth, San Antonio Public Library also has a mayor-sponsored summer reading program, but this one’s for teens. This year’s theme is “A Summer Among the Stars” and features reading lists and activities that help teens to learn more about the mysteries of the universe, alien life forms, and more. Teens can share reviews of books they’ve read (or listened to) online and attend activities on topics like writing, anime, chess, knitting, and more. One thing this library offers that others don’t? A free lunch program, which can help underprivileged kids get some food, enjoy a book, and take part in community activities.

* Today’s article by Online Education Database

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25 Libraries We Most Love on Pinterest

25 Librairies Pinterest
Everyone seems to flock toward Pinterest these days, delighted by its numerous boards allowing them to bookmark Internet ephemera they find valuable and worth sharing. Numerous libraries — be they specialty, public, or affiliated with a school — have harnessed its popularity to push education and literacy causes to the digital generation.Such a strategy thankfully seems to be succeeding swimmingly. Some of the best-curated Pinterest accounts out there fuse old and new into a spectacularly informative feast for the mind. And sometimes gullet, for those who enjoy posting links to edible crafts.

  1. New York Public Library:

    By this point, the New York Public Library serves as far more than a repository of bookish delights. It also happens to be a wonderful museum of American culture, a status reflected in the eclectic pins it presents.

  2. New York Public Library Art and Picture Collection:

    NYPL hosts two Pinterest accounts, with the second one showcasing its extensive holdings regarding art and design across the decades. The boards cover a nicely broad swath of mediums, from two-dimensional digital images to classic films, and celebrate culture’s myriad faces.

  3. Biblioteca UPM:

    With 32 boards and 867 pins to explore, the Universidad Politencia de Madrid offers Pinterest enthusiasts and bibliophiles hours of joy. Content spans more than just bookish subjects, with lots of history and research tips available in both English and Spanish.

  4. Fullerton Public Library:

    One doesn’t have to live in Fullerton, Calif., to love and learn from its Pinterest presence. While some content will only pique the interest of locals, its photos and book recommendations are sure to pique a remote user’s attentions.

  5. ICE Library:

    The Institute of Civil Engineers in London shares its archives with Pinterest users with a jones for history, design, and other relevant subjects. Browse its boards chock full of education materials straight from its archives as well as engineering feats members find inspiring.

  6. Rice Library:

    Presented by the David L. Rice Library at University of Southern Indiana, this account shares its new holdings, participates in “What are You Reading?,” provides links to e-books, and plenty more. Stop here to scope out some intriguing infographics and score advice on what to check out either here or at another library.

  7. Harris County Public Library:

    One of the coolest features of this Houston-based library system’s Pinterest is its “Book of the Day,” which showcases recommended reads from across genres, mediums, and author backgrounds. It also hosts boards with even more specialized suggestions and even craft instructions — among others, of course!

  8. Scribner Library:

    When looking for advice on which graphic novels and nonfiction books and movies about sustainability need a little look-see, head to this site by Skidmore College. The institution’s museums and faculty publications are also available for those interested in learning more about the school.

  9. Oakland Library TeenZone:

    Young adult audiences are quite the hot commodity these days, and libraries the world over are clamoring to meet their needs while still keeping them learning. When looking for inspiration about multimedia treats to offer up local teens, this Pinterest account might very well prove one of the most valuable resources.

  10. Penguin Library:

    Beloved book publishers Penguin show off their English Library series, which prints 100 of the most groundbreaking, notable reads in the language. Though not a library in the traditional sense, it still makes for a fabulous Pinterest account to follow for Angliophile readers.

  11. UNLV Architecture Studies Library:

    Another specialized library, this time zeroing in on books and other resources regarding architectural basics and wonders. Both interiors and exteriors are on display here as well, making it a great Pinterest for a broader audience.

  12. Birmingham Public Library:

    Alabama’s Birmingham Public Library carries its educational aims into the digital sphere, with boards focusing on history, crafts, film, and other not-book subjects. However, there’s certainly plenty for bibliophiles to love and enjoy as well, especially a nice long list of recommended reads.

  13. San Francisco Public Library:

    Multimedia buffs will absolutely adore how San Francisco’s libraries are using Pinterest to show off their impressive photo and history collections. Be sure to check out its painstaking list of books set in the city as well as reviews of its Bay Reads Books series!

  14. Grimshaw Library:

    Few libraries digitally merge crafts and books with the deft skill of this Alberta-based institution, whose boards mainly focus on projects to do at home and at Grimshaw itself. Parents with kids at home for the summer will especially appreciate the suggestions they so helpfully post.

  15. Donors Forum Library:

    Like its name implies, the Donors Forum Library mainly collects and shares books related to philanthropic and charitable efforts. Every month, it shares its latest additions for visitors either wanting to drop by or pick up suggestions about what to read next.

  16. California State Library:

    History buffs head here to delve into resources pertaining to California’s colorful and unique history through a variety of different media — especially photos! California State Library also keeps its followers informed about the state’s different grant projects currently underway.

  17. American Libraries Magazine – ALA:

    Why follow just one location when the American Library Association’s official periodical makes it easy to keep track of so many at once? Cinematic fanatics will definitely appreciate its updates on the National Film Registry, and the Ask the ALA Librarian feature answers some of the most pressing, popular questions about running and getting the most out of these amazing institutions.

  18. O’Fallon Public Library:

    O’Fallon, Illinois’ passionate gaggle of librarians, share what they think readers of different tastes might enjoy . More disciplined fans might like to follow along with their summer reading series for both kids and adults.

  19. CTR Library UTAustin:

    Transportation enthusiasts could easily lose hours browsing these carefully curated boards presented by University of Texas’ Center for Transportation Library. Almost 460 pins (at the time of this writing) are available for anyone wanting to learn anything about the history of people getting from Point A to Point B.

  20. Sacramento Public Library:

    Sacramento Public Library keeps things fun and relevant, with book lists corresponding to upcoming holidays and designated months. As with many libraries on Pinterest, it also loves sharing inspiring crafts and photos, along with a staggeringly long general compilation of what patrons should pick up next.

  21. SCPL Teens:

    From Spartanburg, S.C., comes a Pinterest board wholly devoted to keeping teens occupied with healthy, skill-building activities. Pretty much all of them, for those paying attention, involve crafts of some sort the Youth Of Today can do at home or during relevant library events.

  22. IArtLibraries:

    Art and literature go together like art and literature, and visitors to this Pinterest can stock up on suggestions regarding everything from knitting to typography. It’s an amazing stop for anyone looking to nurse their creativity and meld their love of books with their love of visual expression.

  23. UofL Libraries:

    The librarians at University of Louisville love sharing the books and movies they think the student population might love, though their pins certainly transcend the Cardinal population! While their photograph collection has yet to even hit 10, it will still fascinate anyone who finds history scintillating.

  24. Mid Continent Public Library:

    Pinterest users wanting to follow the latest bestsellers, snag some craft instructions, read what librarians recommend, and other hallmarks of visiting the local library will love this account. It’s incredibly comfortable and cozy — or at least as comfortable and cozy as digital spaces can get.

  25. Awful Library Books:

    OK, so it’s a digital library and blog rather than a brick-and-mortar deal, but Awful Library Books still merits reading. It showcases hilariously terrible design work and titles from bookshelves past, though you probably already figured that one out.

*Today’s article by Online Education Database

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Footwear Evidence & Theft Detection: Leaving A Lasting Impression

Footwear Evidence

Footwear Evidence & Theft Detection

Final Day of Sirchie Evidence Collection Training Classes – by Patti Phillips

Criminals rob, murder, rape or otherwise inflict bodily harm upon their victims. Physical evidence at a crime scene is an essential part of figuring out what happened. It is up to the police officers, investigators, and examiners to recognize what is and is not part of the evidence and then interpret the importance of each fiber, fingerprint, bloodstain, and other material in order to secure a conviction of the correct individual.

One of the most overlooked pieces of evidence at a crime scene is created by footwear.

If a window breaks as a thief enters the premises during the commission of a burglary, the glass will fall into the house, and onto the floor or rug below the window. When the thief steps through the window, unless the thief has wings, he/she will probably plant a foot right in the middle of the glass. And walk through the house, most likely tracking minute pieces of that glass. That glass may also become embedded in the grooves of the sole of the shoe, creating a distinctive footprint.

If the investigating officer can place a suspect at the scene with the footprint, then there is probable cause to fingerprint that suspect and hopefully establish a link to the crime.

A new method of eliminating suspects right at the scene involves stepping into a tray that contains a pad impregnated with a harmless clear ink that doesn’t stain, then stepping onto a chemically treated impression card. (So safe that it’s often used on newborn babies for the hospital records) No messy cleanup, immediate results, and it can even show details of wear and tear on the shoe. This can be a way to establish a known standard (we know where this impression came from) to compare with multiple tread prints at the scene.

Footwear Clear Ink Impression

Another tool for creating a known standard is the foam impression system. It takes a bit longer, (24 hours) but clear, crisp impressions can be made, including of the pebbles and bits stuck deep into the grooves and the writing on the arch. Very helpful when trying to place suspects at the scene. A rock stuck in the sole is a random characteristic that can’t be duplicated, so becomes another point of identification.

We definitely wanted to try this method for ourselves. Each of the writers stepped into the box of stiff-ish foam – a bit like stepping into wet sand.

Using foam impression system

An impression is made instantaneously. Look at the detail – down to the wear on the heel.

Foam impression of Wolverine boot

We used pre-mixed dental stone (made with distilled water and the powder) to fill the impression.

Making the cast with pre-mixed dental stone

We waited 24 hours for them to become firm enough to pop out of the foam. We now had permanent records of the footwear treads, which could be used for comparison to other prints found at the scene. There were more than a dozen of us walking through that room every day on a regular basis and assorted other visitors tramping through the perimeter. If a crime occurred before we left for the week, we’d have a LOT of eliminating to do, but we were ready!

Footwear casts

Occasionally footprints are found on the ground outside a window or in the gardens surrounding a house after a burglary or homicide. Ever see a crime show on TV where the fictional investigator makes a snap judgment about the height and weight of the owner of the footprint because of the depth of the impression? That’s merely a plot device and is not scientific evidence in real life. A crime scene photographer or investigator can photograph the footprint (next to a measurement scale), make a take away cast, and then compare the impression with those of the suspects or other bystanders at the scene. Beware: making a cast of the print destroys the print, so a photograph must be taken before pouring that first drop of dental stone.

Footprints can be found at bloody crime scenes as well. The suspect walks through the blood, tracks it through the house, cleans it up, but the prints are still there, even though not obvious to the naked eye. As we learned during the ‘Blood and Other Bodily Fluids’ session, blood just doesn’t go away, no matter how hard you try to get rid of it. It seeps into the cracks and crevices of a floor and even behind baseboards.

A savvy investigator will collect sections of carpet (or flooring) taken from where the suspect might have walked during the commission of the crime, then conduct a presumptive test for blood (LCV – Aqueous Leuco Crystal Violet), find a usable footprint, compare it to a known standard, and then be able to place the suspect at the scene.

Footwear Print

Crooks like to think they can outsmart the cops by coming up with new ways to get rid of evidence. But law enforcement officers are getting smarter as well. Filing down the serial numbers on a gun in order to cover up its ownership? No longer works.

We thought Mr. Skiff was kidding! But, no. We were each presented with a small rectangle of polished metal. Looks totally smooth and shiny, right? We were informed that one of the Sirchie employees had used a sander and removed numbers from some, maybe all, of the metal rectangles. Hmm… Our assignment was to restore the numbers. Ha! No way there was anything on mine.

Supposedly ‘gone’ serial number

(By the way, if this had been a gun in an actual case, first we would have photographed the area where the serial # was supposed to be, and shone a flashlight on it from several oblique angles to see if we could spot a fragment of a numeral.)

Our course of action was to:

1) polish the surface with sandpaper – very fine, 220 grade sandpaper. We were warned not to create heat, but to keep polishing until we had a mirror surface, about two minutes at a time.

2) wipe off the surface with clean cotton balls

3) apply cleaning solution

4) use a bulb pipette, apply 2% acetic acid solution, and flood the surface evenly.

The acid ate away at the metal, turned to light gray, bubbled, and gave off a bit of smoke. It was taking the destroyed surface and restoring it.

Acid treated metal

Once the bubbling stopped, we dumped the acid into the sink and wiped the surface dry with a clean cotton ball. It fogged and we kept rubbing hard, about 45 seconds. The next step was to run the piece of metal under the faucet and hold it an angle to see what we had.

Checking for numbers

Most of us saw something, but we couldn’t really tell what the writing said. We started the process again, beginning with the sanding at step #1. After another run through all the steps, three numerals appeared on mine.

584 pops out after only two attempts at restoration

Success! Followed by the application of an acid neutralizer to set the numerals. I just checked and almost two weeks after the class ended, the numerals have not faded.

If this were an actual case, we would photograph the numerals we were able to restore, call the gun manufacturer and ask for a match in their database. All legitimate gun manufacturers employ liaisons to work with law enforcement officers. Good news? – it is also possible to restore numbers on plastic, copper, and aluminum. And, if there were 20-30 numerals to be restored, and only half appeared, it’s possible to cover the recovered numerals with duct tape, then reprocess the missing ones.

Presumptive drug tests for narcotics can be conducted right at the scene.

The kits each include three ampules. A very small amount of the substance in question is added to the open bag and then the ampules are broken one at a time. After each ampule breaks, the test liquid mixes with the substance and will change to the correct color if the test is positive. Every once in a while, we see drug dealers on TV or in the movies dip a finger into a kilo of cocaine, taste it, then declare that it’s ‘good stuff.’ Not true in real life, and certainly a police officer could not do that at a drug bust. These tests are fast and accurate.

Presumptive drug test results

Theft detection comes into play during bank robberies and kidnappings. If officials know ahead of time that a bank is about to be robbed, or if kidnappers have asked for a money drop, but the identity of the suspect is unknown…what to do? Microwave the money to take out the moisture, then dust it with purple Stain Detection Powder. When the suspect picks up the cash, his hands will get the pesky purple powder all over them.

Visible Stain Detection Powder

The stuff is annoying and spreads easily onto clothes – messy, messy. So, if the suspect acts like any other average person on the planet, he/she will try to wash it off. But, that only makes the hands turn a bright shade of purple. This stuff does not wash off, no matter how many times you scrub. We watched Mr. Skiff continue to work on that purple stain for the rest of the day. I hope he didn’t have dinner plans out in a public place.

Visible Stain Detection Powder exposed to moisture

There are both visible and invisible fluorescent Stain Detection products (powders, pastes, crayons, ink markers, etc.) and they are used for both tagging and tracing. Some of the crimes most likely to be solved using them? Petty theft, money laundering, illegal drug sales, illegal firearm deals, industrial espionage, arson, and loads more. Stain Detection stamps have been used for years to track people coming and going at large entertainment venues. Cheap and easy way to tell if someone has paid for the entry ticket.

A few words about crime scene photography:

I’ve mentioned several times that photography plays an important role in recording evidence at the scene. We see crime scene photographers working the scenes on the major forensic crime shows on TV and in the movies all the time. Not just anyone with a cool new camera can photograph a crime scene, however. Aside from the ‘strong stomach’ factor, the photographer must have an expert level of knowledge about f-stops, raw vs jpeg images, and the list goes on. PLUS, you can’t delete the images you don’t like, even if fuzzy or off-kilter. Digital camera images are sequentially numbered and if the remaining photographs are entered into evidence in a court case, the attorneys will want to know what was on the missing images. Case gets thrown out of court because of your pride? Hmm…

The fabulous week came to a close with a graduation ceremony. Since we were not actually going to work in law enforcement – just write about it – we didn’t have to take the exam that usually closes the week of training. Whew!

Robert Skiff, Patti Phillips

Grads at other institutions receive flowers on graduation day. Not our group.

Our goodies? T-shirts, cozies, pens, and….

For a crime fiction writer, perfect!

I can’t say enough great things about Robert Skiff, the Sirchie Training Manager/Technical Training Specialist who conducted the class with his assistant, Chrissy Hunter, all week. He fielded our many (sometimes wild) questions with solid expertise as we attempted to find the perfect scenarios for our fictional crime-fighters and criminals.

Thanks as well to Lee Lofland and Writers’ Police Academy for making it all possible. Amazing experience!

Patti Phillips is a mystery writer/photographer/reviewer whose best investigative days are spent writing, cooking, traveling for research, and playing golf. Her time on the golf course was murderously valuable while creating the perfect alibi for the chief villain in Patti’s novel, “One Sweet Motion.” Did you know that there are spots on the golf course that can’t be accessed by listening devices? Of course, it helps to avoid suspicion if you work on lowering your handicap while plotting the dirty deeds.

Patti Phillips writes the online detective blog, www.kerriansnotebook.com. (Detective Kerrian chats about life as a detective as well as the central case in “One Sweet Motion.”) Patti’s book reviews of mysteries and thrillers can be found on the Facebook, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble sites. Her own review site, ‘Nightstand Book Reviews’ is coming soon.

Patti is a transplanted metropolitan New Yorker/north Texan, now living in the piney state of North Carolina.

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Fingerprint Collection from Difficult Surfaces…and AFIS

Fingerprint: Difficult surfaces

Fingerprint Collection from Difficult Surfaces (& AFIS) at Sirchie

We often hear it said on TV and in the movies that there are items and surfaces that do not hold fingerprints or that fingerprints cannot be recovered from them. On Day #4 of the Sirchie Evidence Collection Training Classes held at the Sirchie Fingerprint Laboratories in NC, we experimented with a variety of surfaces to see what would happen if…

Skin is reported to be one of the most difficult surfaces from which to lift a print, because the prints fade so quickly. But, after three days of dusting and chemically treating and lifting and photographing dubious fingerprints, our group of dogged writer/investigators was not to be deterred.

The set of prints in the photograph below were lifted from an arm. Not clothing, the arm itself. And not by using fingerprint powder on the arm. A classmate kindly offered up her arm to be grabbed. Then a piece of specially treated paper (chromicoat) was pressed onto the area of her arm where the fingerprints were likely to be found. That paper was then dusted with fingerprint powder and the prints popped up. We now knew it was possible to lift the prints if they were minutes old, but we had access to both the specially treated paper and the powder immediately after the grab. We also knew from experience that our grabber always left really good prints on all the surfaces touched during the previous days.

We proposed various scenarios to our instructor (equally curious Robert Skiff, Sirchie Training Manager/Technical Training Specialist). What if a mugger grabbed a bare arm and tried to drag us into an alley? How close would we have to be to the police station after we got away from the mugger in order to get the prints processed? How much time did we have before they faded away? Would the lift work if we used plain paper, since it was highly unlikely that an ordinary gal would be carrying chromicoat paper in a pocket? What if the police station wasn’t close by, therefore no access to fingerprint powder?

The answers were time sensitive. It was possible to lift prints from a bare arm with plain paper, but only if the lift was made during the first few minutes and only if the suspect left a strong sample. It’s possible to use cigarette ashes as a substitute for the fingerprint powder. Conclusions? There were too many variables for this to be a reliable way to catch a crook. Now…if you were grabbed around the corner from a police station OR were a smoker AND the mugger had dirty hands AND you had a clean piece of paper in your pocket AND you had attended this class… Hmmm…maybe in a sci-fi mystery. However, not completely impossible.

Lift from skin using Chromicoat treated paper

Another difficult surface from which to lift prints is the dashboard of a car. Think about it. If you press your hand onto a dashboard, your skin (with all the loops and whorls and arches) is also pressing into the crevices of the pebbled surface. Same thing is true for an orange or a football. A straight gel lift or hinge lifter will not do the job effectively. A tape lift may only pick up the top of the print.

Dashboard surface

But, the investigator sees the possible print and doesn’t want to lose the opportunity to catch the crook. The answer in the past was to dust the likely area with magnetic fingerprint powder, then apply a Blue Glue gel and wait for the gel to cure before lifting it off the dash—about five hours. FIVE hours? The crook is getting away! No time to wait!

These days, the preferred lifting product (after applying the magnetic powder to enhance the print) is a transparent liquid silicone (PVS200—polyvinyl siloxane), applied with an extruder gun. It flows down into the crevices, dries in six minutes, and gets into every bit of the print. After the polyvinyl dries, it can be lifted, and then placed on a backing card to preserve the print. At that point, it can be placed under an Optical Comparator, photographed, and sent off to AFIS for an ID/comparison.

This epoxy is not good for every surface (it rips paper, etc) but is very good for pitted, bumpy surfaces like alligator skin and dashboards. Gotcha!

Dashboard Lift

Another tricky scenario: The cop is in pursuit of an unidentified car thief or robber and chases him through a parking lot. The cop witnesses the suspect firmly planting his palm on the trunk of a car as he cuts through a tight space. The cop grins as he realizes that even if the guy outruns him, he can catch him through the palm print. And, then, it starts to pour. Does the print get washed away? Or become unusable?

Not if the Field Kit is handy! When forced to do a wet lift, it is possible to use SPR (Small Particle Reagent – finely ground particles suspended in a detergent solution). Spray the print with a fine mist of SPR and let set. Lay the hinge lifter just off the print and place it down carefully, employing a squeegee at the same time, to slowly remove the excess water. This method can be used to develop prints on non-porous surfaces—cans, bottles, windows, and other glossy surfaces, but not on paper or cardboard.

Wet Lift

Criminals who tie their victims up during the commission of a crime frequently use duct tape for the job. That duct tape is almost always full of prints that get embedded into the tape. It’s practically impossible to manipulate and tear the tape while wearing gloves (I tried this once and the gloves got so stuck to the tape that I threw the resulting mess away), so he leaves prints while unrolling and tearing the tape. Even if he has wiped the smooth surface of the tape clean to cover his identity, the sticky side can’t be wiped without taking away the sticky. Balls of tape tossed aside by a suspect have been processed successfully for prints, but first the tape had to be released from itself.

Separating folded duct tape from itself

A 2% chloroform tape release agent is dropped liberally on the area where the two pieces of tape meet. Two people need to work together on this—one person places the drops continuously while the other person pulls the tape apart. The ends of the tape are folded over (about ¼”) and the tape is flattened for 24 hours before further processing.

Adhesive-side Developer

After 24 hours, adhesive-side developer is applied to the sticky side of the duct tape, allowed to sit for a few minutes, then rinsed off and voila! The prints are clearly visible, can be photographed, covered with clear tape to protect them, viewed under the Optical Comparator, entered into the system, and sent off to AFIS. (Crystal Violet can also be used for processing this type of print, but is toxic and should only be used in a lab.)

Duct tape prints

AFIS – what is it and does it really help identify a person of interest in a crime?

Anyone who has watched TV crime shows during the last decade has heard the acronym AFIS. It stands for Automated Fingerprint Identification System. In 1924, the FBI started a fingerprint identification system. They fingerprinted several thousand prisoners incarcerated at Leavenworth, and stored their prints on cards.

Today, the system has broadened to include international prints as well, is an electronic database of 70 million, and contains the prints of people who have been arrested at every level of crime. The FBI also includes prints of people fingerprinted as a result of employment, or security assessments purposes such as authorized Federal background check programs and military service. The latest FBI version is named IAFIS (I is for Integrated).

Johnny Leonard, a latent fingerprint expert, visited the class in the afternoon to explain what AFIS can and can’t do. He showed us what a fingerprint examiner looks for in every print or partial print he/she sees, using the Henry Fingerprint Classification and Identification method. The average number of minutiae on every complete print is between 100 and 150. There are distinct ridge patterns to look for in a print: arches, loops and whorls.

65% of all fingerprint patterns are loops,

30% are whorls,

and only 5% of fingerprint patterns are arches.

Thumb prints are the prints most often left at a crime scene, because people use their thumbs for leverage when pushing through doors or opening safes, or grabbing those golf clubs to use as weapons, etc.

Identifying 8-12 points of similarity between an unknown latent print found at a crime scene and one in the AFIS database is the standard for declaring a match, but some jurisdictions want more for absolute certainty. An examiner plots the print in question for distinct characteristics, makes notes to that effect before sending the print off and waits. AFIS & IAFIS return a list (sometimes as many as 30) of possible matches. At this point, the examiner reviews the possibles and chooses the best match in his/her opinion. And, it might not be the first on the list. Then, another examiner verifies the possible match. There is no such thing as an instantaneous match with just one print from the AFIS or IAFIS databases. TV tells us otherwise, but sorry, that’s merely for dramatic effect.

Other interesting fingerprint details:

*We know that no two people can have the same fingerprints, but not even the same person’s prints are identical.

*Some people have all three types of ridge patterns on one finger.

*Only positive matches from the state AFIS are verified by examiners; not the negative ones.

*Palm prints are now in the AFIS database.

*AFIS looks for change of direction in the whorls, loops, and arches in order to find a match.

*There has not been a case yet where the DNA has not matched the fingerprints at the scene.

The photo below shows a positive match between a latent print and one in the database. The latent is on the left. The database print is on the right. This match placed the suspect at the scene and along with other evidence, resulted in a conviction.

AFIS Match

Having been through four days of training, working with prints on a variety of surfaces, we felt confident that we were up to the challenge of matching a few fingerprints on our own. Mr. Leonard showed us 16 pairs of prints and gave us 15 minutes to make decisions. We looked for cluster highlights, tented arches, spots, bifurcations and other techy details. Guess what? The lines began to blur, and not all of us correctly identified all the matches.

TV makes it look easy, with a click and a less than five-minute response time from IAFIS. Not possible, with 70 million fingerprints to choose from. This is not an easy job.

Next up: Footwear and other fun ID techniques

 

Patti Phillips is a mystery writer/photographer/reviewer whose best investigative days are spent writing, cooking, traveling for research, and playing golf. Her time on the golf course was murderously valuable while creating the perfect alibi for the chief villain in Patti’s novel, “One Sweet Motion.” Did you know that there are spots on the golf course that can’t be accessed by listening devices? Of course, it helps to avoid suspicion if you work on lowering your handicap while plotting the dirty deeds.

Patti Phillips writes the online detective blog, www.kerriansnotebook.com. (Detective Kerrian chats about life as a detective as well as the central case in “One Sweet Motion.”) Patti’s book reviews of mysteries and thrillers can be found on the Facebook, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble sites. Her own review site, ‘Nightstand Book Reviews’ is coming soon.

Patti is a transplanted metropolitan New Yorker/north Texan, now living in the piney state of North Carolina.

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