Vaporized Gold: A Game Changer in Pinellas Crime Solving Techniques

Pasco County, USA - In an innovative leap forward for crime investigations, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) has introduced an intriguing technology: vaporized gold. This unique approach is made possible through a specialized apparatus known as the Vacuum Metal Deposition Chamber (VMD). It’s not just a buzzword; this machine is proving to be an essential tool in uncovering invisible fingerprints on various pieces of evidence, enhancing the effectiveness of forensic investigations.

Heather Temple, a Forensic Science Specialist, elaborates on how the VMD operates. The process entails heating metals like gold, silver, and copper until they transform into gas, which then adheres to the evidence, rendering previously invisible fingerprints visible. Impressively, the VMD can handle various types of evidence, with a particular emphasis on bullet casings. However, it’s worth noting that the device can’t process wet or pressurized items, limiting its applications slightly.

Technology in Action

The PCSO has been utilizing this remarkable technology since 2000, recently upgrading to a spacious, walk-in freezer-sized VMD with funds from a grant provided by the National Institute of Justice. Only a small fraction—just nine percent—of sheriff’s offices across Florida have access to such technology. Temple underscores the impact of the VMD, especially given its rarity among law enforcement agencies. It’s clear that having this advanced equipment allows for a more thorough examination of evidence, complementing traditional methods like fingerprint powder processing.

It’s not just in Florida where this technology is making waves. In Westchester County, New York, officials are also adopting the Vacuum Metal Deposition technique for their investigations. Their public safety commissioner noted that this powerful tool can detect fingerprints from a wide array of challenging materials, including fired ammunition, thermal paper, and flexible plastics. County Executive George Latimer has expressed confidence that VMD will enhance investigative processes significantly. The VMD allows retrieval of fingerprints from items that are submerged in water or exposed to high temperatures, both scenarios that typically compromise fingerprint evidence. As noted by the forensicmag, this technology is particularly valuable for solving Cold Cases, making previously dormant leads active once again.

Wider Implications for Forensics

Looking more broadly, Vacuum Metal Deposition has a rich history dating back to the 1970s, first developed by the UK Home Office. Historical accounts show that early systems were expensive and required high maintenance, which limited their widespread adoption. However, as technology has advanced, VMD systems have become more feasible for various forensic labs. Notably, these systems work exceptionally well on non-porous and semi-porous surfaces, such as plastic bottles and firearms, promising to unveil delicate fingerprint details that other methods might miss.

The efficacy of VMD is further enhanced by its ability to develop fingerprints that are over 20 years old. This impressive capability means that investigators can trace back and uncover evidence from items that have long been considered irrelevant. VMD is also suitable for items that have previously lost fingerprint residue, giving investigators a new avenue to explore.

As the technology continues to evolve, many forensic professionals remain optimistic about its potential. While some deem the costs for VMD to be high, others consider it a worthy investment in the pursuit of justice. With initiatives like those undertaken by the PCSO and Westchester County police, the future of criminal investigations looks brighter, not just in Florida or New York, but potentially across the entire country.