ABSTRACT
The three fingerprint pattern types—arches, loops, and whorls—are further subdivided into eight sub-pattern types: plain arch, tented arch, ulnar loop, radial loop, plain whorl, double-loop whorl, central pocket loop whorl, and accidental. Fingerprints classification systems based on determining the pattern types on each finger were initially developed to organize and file large volumes of arrest records. The two methods of fingerprint classification addressed in this chapter are the Henry Classification System and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) classification system. Though Henry classification has become obsolete with the advent of the AFIS computer, pattern recognition is a critical skill. In the associated laboratory exercises, fingerprint pattern types, whorl tracing, Primary Henry Classification, and NCIC classification schemes are explored.
