How does fingerprint identification work?
Fingerprint identification is a biometric method that utilizes the unique patterns on an individual’s fingertips to establish identity. Each person’s fingerprint is distinct, consisting of ridges, whorls, and other patterns formed in the womb and remain unchanged throughout life. The process begins with the taking fingerprint image using a specialized scanner or ink pad. This image is then converted into a digital format, allowing for easier analysis and storage. The quality of the fingerprint is crucial; even small imperfections or smudges can compromise the accuracy of identification.
Importance of fingerprint identification in criminal justice
Fingerprint identification plays a vital role in the criminal justice system, serving as a cornerstone for establishing identity and ensuring public safety. Law enforcement agencies rely heavily on fingerprints to solve crimes, identify suspects, and exonerate the innocent. When a crime is committed, investigators often collect fingerprints from the crime scene, which can provide crucial evidence linking a suspect to the criminal activity. By matching these fingerprints against existing databases, police can quickly identify potential suspects and gather further evidence to build their cases.
Additionally, fingerprint identification is an essential tool for background checks in various situations, such as employment screening and licensing for sensitive positions. Many organizations require fingerprint-based background checks to ensure that individuals in critical roles, such as educators, healthcare workers, and security personnel, have no criminal history that could jeopardize public safety. This process not only protects the organization’s interests but also fosters trust and transparency within the community.
The process of obtaining a pardon/Record Suspension
- Get your criminal record – Get your fingerprints taken
- visit an accredited fingerprinting company to submit your fingerprints electronically
- visit “Where do I get a criminal record check?” for more information.
- Wait to receive your criminal record from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Any documents provided by the RCMP must be included with your application.
- Get your court information
- you must get court information for each of your convictions. This must include proof and date of last payment for any fines, victim surcharges, restitution, and compensation.
- Get your military conduct sheet
- if you are not a current or past member of the Canadian Armed Forces, go to Step 5
- if you are a current or past member of the Canadian Armed Forces, you must get a Certificate, signed and dated copy of your Military Conduct Sheet by contacting the appropriate organization.
- Get your local police record check(s)
- Each local police record check is only valid for 12 months from the date it is issued.
- Get a copy of your document to support your identity
- you need to provide a clear photocopy of a document which supports your identity with your application.
- Complete the Schedule 1 Exception Form
- please note that this step is only required if :
- you have a conviction for a Schedule 1 offence and your first offence was committed on or after March 12, 2012 (see “Who is eligible for a record suspension“); or
- Your Schedule 1 offence was committed on or after March 13, 2012.
- please note that this step is only required if :
- Fill in the Record Suspension Application Form
- You must use the Record Suspension Application Form.
- Answer all questions in the Record Suspension Application Form.
- Print in BLOCK letters using Black and Blue ink only.
- Complete the Measurable Benefit / Sustained Rehabilitation Form
- Provide the payment of the application processing fee: $50 CDN
- Mail your Application Form, the Application Processing fee, and all official documents to this address:
Parole Board of Canada
Clemency and Record Suspension Division
410 Laurier Avenue West, 5th Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0R1
(Source from Record Suspension https://www.canada.ca/en/parole-board/services/record-suspensions/step-1-get-your-criminal-record.html.)
Please click the above link to get more details.
