Alabama Bureau of Investigation Division

Major Hugh B. McCall
Division Chief

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Division Home : Related Links : Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)

Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)

AFIS is a computerized, state-of-the-art fingerprint identification system. It allows for the computer search of fingerprint files at a rate of up to 2,000 fingerprints per second. Under the previous manual system, one fingerprint technician is capable of conducting four fingerprint searches in an hour. The system allows for future expansion, including the capability of networking with other agencies that acquire AFIS equipment to allow direct searches of the state data base.

The system greatly increases law enforcement's capability to quickly identify criminal suspects and provides for more efficient management of more than one million fingerprint cards currently on file in the Alabama Bureau of Investigation.

AFIS is capable of matching latent prints -- prints left behind at a crime scene -- when no suspect is known for comparison of prints. It represents the first major technological breakthrough regarding the use of fingerprints in law enforcement since 1900.