What is the method used to preserve developed latent prints?

The method used to preserve developed latent prints is through photographic or taped lifts. This is a crucial step in the crime scene analysis process because it allows investigators to create a permanent record of the latent prints that can be analyzed and compared later.

When latent prints are developed, they are often visible only through specialized techniques, such as using powders or chemicals. Once the prints are visible, they need to be captured in a manner that ensures they cannot be altered or destroyed. Taped lifts involve using clear tape to adhesive the developed print, while photographic methods involve capturing high-quality images of the prints. Both techniques help maintain the integrity of the print and allow for the evidence to be examined in court.

The significance of using photographic or taped lifts lies in the preservation's ability to maintain details that are crucial for identifying potential suspects or confirming the presence of individuals at a crime scene. This method effectively enables the documentation of the evidence while reducing the risk of losing the information that could arise from handling the physical surfaces where the prints were found.