LA Reviews 1,000 Fingerprint Cases
Authorities in Los Angeles are reviewing the fingerprint analysis in about 1,000 cases, after errors by six examiners came to light as a result of a local newspaper’s investigative report.
“A recent Times investigation found that errors were partly the result of the unit’s being marred by inadequate training, antiquated facilities, poor supervision, careless handling of evidence and other shortfalls.,” recounts the Los Angeles Times.
Fingerprint evidence is not expected to be crucial in many of the cases, however, because other evidence ties the suspect to the crime or a no-contest plea has been entered, prosecutors say. At least two innocent people apparently were charged with crimes as a result of faulty fingerprint work, however, although thes mistake were caught before their cases went to trial, the newspaper reports.
The review is proceeding slowly because of a lack of resources and the need to coordinate between multiple agencies, the Times article says. Authorities hope it will be completed in three months, and they say they are instituting reforms to ensure that similar fingerprint identification mistakes aren’t made in the future.
Hat tip: Crime & Justice News.
Earlier ABAJournal.com coverage: