The importance of fingerprints in the investigation of housebreaking cases

Abstract

This research focused on the importance of fingerprints as a tool in the investigation of housebreaking cases and the causes of fingerprint mishandling in these investigations. The problem was identified from the large number of struck-off-the-roll cases of housebreakings. The study aimed to explore the value of fingerprints in the investigation of housebreaking cases, with the aim of providing new knowledge for fingerprint experts and investigators of housebreaking cases to apply in the execution of their duties. The study collected data from current relevant literature and interviews with fingerprint experts and detective commanders of the West Rand cluster. The study found that fingerprints are largely considered one of the most valuable sources of evidence in the investigation of housebreaking cases because they are undisputed and persist with age. Fingerprints taken accurately save the court time. However, investigators and fingerprint experts often lack an appreciation of the importance of fingerprints in housebreaking investigations. The study identified the main cause of fingerprint mishandling as actions taken by the first responders to the crime scene, who showed a lack of knowledge regarding securing the crime scene, leading to fingerprint contamination. On the basis of these findings, the study recommends training for both fingerprint experts and detectives regarding the importance of fingerprints, and awareness and training for first responders and community members about the importance of fingerprints as evidence in a crime scene. The South African Police Service (SAPS) database should also be linked to that of the Department of Home Affairs and border control tightened as fingerprints belonging to illegal immigrants are not on the SAPS database and this makes it difficult for investigators and experts to trace them.