Which of the following is a documented verification step for latent print examiners?

• A. Applies the ACE methodology.
• B. Aims to maximize speed.
• C. Removes all photographs.
• D. Ignores the case file.

Answer: (A)

Latent print verification relies on a structured, auditable workflow that makes the reasoning traceable. The ACE approach—Analysis of the prints, Comparison between the latent and known prints, and Evaluation leading to a conclusion—provides a formal, documented method that examiners can follow and defend in court. Using ACE in the verification step ensures that the examiner's conclusions are grounded in explicit analyses and can be reviewed by another qualified examiner, which is the essence of verification.

The other ideas aren’t part of a standard verification step: aiming to maximize speed can compromise accuracy; removing all photographs would erase the evidentiary record needed for review; ignoring the case file deprives the examiner of essential contextual information that guides interpretation.