Identity Lost
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Authors
Esterly, Jacqueline Y.
Issue Date
2002
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Forensic sciences
Alternative Title
Abstract
The ultimate goal of this project was to determine whether obtaining fingerprints from the homeless population would decrease the number of unidentified persons found deceased and reported to the Medical Examiners Office for the County of San Diego.
To make this determination, a sample of the homeless population in the County of San Diego were interviewed regarding their criminal history, and whether they would be willing to voluntarily provide their fingerprints to local law enforcement.
In addition, a sample of law enforcement officers in the County of San Diego completed a questionnaire, which relayed their familiarity with the homeless population in their community, and whether obtaining fingerprints from the homeless population would be worth such an endeavor.
The results of the study show that local law enforcement feel that obtaining fingerprints from the homeless population would be a worthwhile attempt. In addition, the majority of the homeless population reported willingness to cooperate if this study were to be attempted in a larger scope.