Merit Badge Opportunity

Merit badge requirements
1. Give a short history of fingerprinting. Tell the difference between civil and criminal identification.
2. Explain the difference between the automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS) now used by some law enforcement agencies and the biometric fingerprint systems used to control access to places like buildings, airports, and computer rooms.
3. Do the following:
a. Name the surfaces of the body where friction or papillary ridges are found.
b. Name the two basic principles supporting the science of fingerprints and give a brief explanation of each principle.
c. Explain what it takes to positively identify a person using fingerprints.
4. Take a clear set of prints using ONE of the following methods:
a. Make both rolled and plain impressions. Make these on an 8-by-8-inch fingerprint identification card available from your local police department or counselor.
b. Using clear adhesive tape, a pencil, and plain paper, record your own fingerprints or those of another person.
5. Show your merit badge counselor you can identify the three basic types of fingerprint patterns and their subcategories. Using your own hand, identify the types of patterns you see.


Mr. Nutter will be at the troop meeting on Wednesday night to talk about the Fingerprinting Merit badge and do fingerprinting with the troop. If you are interested in earning the merit badge you must have a short history of fingerprinting (requirement 1). Be ready to talk about the other requirements for the merit badge as well.

Ms. Savory.