The Newport News Police Department is constantly striving to provide youth with career insight on the law enforcement field as well as have the opportunity to interact with, and get to know them. Recently, Newport News Police Forensic Technician Alison Fox was invited to Woodside High School to provide hands-on experience for the students in a forensics science class. Students were taught how to recover fingerprints from surfaces using fingerprint powder and lift tape. This exercise allowed them to see how intricate this process can be. Forensic Technician Fox also explained the importance of properly lifting fingerprints to help prove suspect’s involvement and to also eliminate persons implicated in crimes. The ability to properly recover prints can be the difference between an acquittal and incarceration. The students were very receptive and inquisitive. The experience provided an excellent opportunity for the Newport News Police Department to connect with the students in the community and educate them in the forensic evidence recovery process.

*Photograph by Woodside Student/Newport News Police Explorer Randal Smith