Course detail: Processing Latent Prints - Beyond the Basics

Kansas Bureau of Investigation training to assist with latent print collection and submission. 

When responding to crime scenes, it is important to recognize probative evidence conducive for latent print examination. Learning to apply the proper development and collection techniques will assist in the recovery of comparable latent prints. In this course, students will get hands-on experience with applying various powders on basic and complex surfaces. In addition, they will test and experiment with a number of lifting techniques to include tape, gel, hinge, and casting material. Students will also learn and perform a method for taking known prints which does not utilize ink, yet still provides a full and clear recording of the friction ridge skin. In addition, this course will explain proper packaging and submission techniques for latent print evidence and photographs of latent prints. 

Course Competency: 
  • Participants will employ best practices as they investigate any crime from its beginning to its eventual disposition; either as an individual or part of an investigatory team. 

Course Objectives: 
  • Identify the conditions that affect the recovery of latent prints and how to maximize the preservation of latent prints. 
  • Learn to apply the proper development and collection techniques 
  • Understand the different collection methods 
  • Learn to properly package and the techniques for submission for latent print evidence 
  • Understand how to submit photographs of latent prints 

Who Should Attend: 
  • Law Enforcement Officers 
  • Detectives and Investigators
  • Crime Scene Investigators
  • Evidence Personnel
  • Death Investigators
Instructional Methods:
  • Lecture
  • Hands-on training
Course Requirements:

  • 100% attendance and participation

 Fitness Level Necessary for Successful Completion: Low Active




Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend University of Kansas sponsored events. If you require a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in an event, please email KLETC  or call 620.694.1400  at least three weeks before the first day of the event. Some events may require notice earlier than three weeks and require you to contact a specific individual; if so, that information is provided in the event-specific information.


Notice of Availability of the KLETC Annual Security and Fire Safety Report:

The University of Kansas has determined that the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) main campus in Hutchinson and its regional sites in Dodge City, Hays, and Parsons are separate campuses. This determination was made in consultation with the Department of Education. The report is available online at: https://civilrights.ku.edu/clery.

The report contains information regarding campus safety and security including topics such as: campus law enforcement authority; crime reporting policies; campus alerts (Timely Warnings and Emergency Notifications); fire safety policies and procedures; programs to prevent sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking; the procedures the institution will follow when one of these crimes is reported; and other matters of importance related to security on campus. The report also contains information about crime statistics for the three most recent calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred On-Campus; in On-Campus Student Housing Facilities; in Non-Campus buildings or property owned or controlled by the institution or a recognized student organization; and on Public Property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also contains fire statistics for any fires occurring in an On-Campus Student Housing Facility during the three most recent calendar years.

 A paper copy of the report will be provided upon request. If you would like to receive a paper copy, you can request that a copy be mailed to you by calling 785-864-6414 or emailing civilrights@ku.edu or arrange for pick-up at a KLETC location.

Available sessions

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