Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

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Which technique is NOT recommended for raising a latent print from a non-porous surface?

  1. Apply powder in circular motion

  2. Use short, quick strokes

  3. Use a soft brush

  4. Pat the area gently with powder

The correct answer is: Use short, quick strokes

The recommended techniques for raising a latent print from a non-porous surface focus on preserving the quality and clarity of the print. In the context of using short, quick strokes, this method can lead to ineffective application of the powder and may not allow for an even coverage over the print. When trying to enhance a latent print, it's crucial to apply the powder smoothly and consistently, allowing it to cling to the oils and residues of the fingerprint. Using an even motion, such as applying the powder in a circular fashion or a gentle patting method, promotes better adhesion and visibility of the latent print. A soft brush is also ideal as it reduces the risk of damaging the print while applying the powder. Therefore, using short, quick strokes is not a suitable approach for this task.