NCJ Number
81321
Journal
Detective Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: (Fall/Winter 1981) Pages: 24-27
Date Published
1981
Length
4 pages
Annotation
A new method of identification -- lipprint identification -- is described.
Abstract
In 1950, LeMoyne Snyder pointed out that wrinkles and cracks of the lips have the same characteristics as do fingerprints in that lip groove patterns are different in each individual. Y. Tsuchihashi classified lipprints into six types according to the shape and course of the grooves. To record lipprints, it is recommended that the lips be photographed close-up, making use of lighting techniques to achieve contract in the wrinkles and grooves. A portion of a measuring device should be included in the photograph. The basic equipment required for taking record lipprints is dark colored lipstick, white 8 x 10-inch paper, two rubber bands, tissue paper, and a rolling device such as the inner portion of a Xerox paper roll. After having recorded the lipprints, the name and signature of the person taking the prints, the date printed, and the name and signature of the person printed should be recorded. Indistinct or illegible prints are caused by (1) inadequate pressure when recording or failure to apply lipstick to the entire surface, (2) allowing the subject to move the lips and too much pressure on the roll, (3) failure to thoroughly clean the lips of foreign substances, (4) the use of too much lipstick, and (5) the use of insufficient lipstick. Taking lipprints falls within the same legal category as taking fingerprints and palmprints. Comparison of lipprints is accomplished by comparing the grooves present in the latent lipprint (found at the scene) with those present in the record lipprints. Photographs and six references are supplied.