Nightstalker Case and Laser Technology

The video discusses the Nightstalker case, highlighting the challenges faced by police in detecting fingerprints using traditional methods. It introduces the revolutionary use of laser technology, which does not rely on moisture to detect prints. The development of portable laser scanners allowed for on-site crime scene analysis. The Orange County Sheriff's Department successfully used this technology to find a fingerprint in the Nightstalker case, demonstrating its effectiveness.

What were the two critical clues the police had in the Nightstalker case?

• A suspect sketch and a weapon

• A weapon and a piece of clothing

• A suspect sketch and a car

• A car and a piece of clothing

Why is time a critical factor in developing latent fingerprints?

• Because the residue changes color over time

• Because the residue hardens over time

• Because the residue becomes more visible over time

• Because the residue evaporates and degrades over time

How do lasers differ from traditional fingerprint powders?

• Lasers are less effective than powders

• Lasers can detect fingerprints without moisture

• Lasers are more expensive than powders

• Lasers require moisture to detect fingerprints

What compounds do lasers illuminate to detect fingerprints?

• Water and salt

• Sodium and glucose

• Protein and fat

• Oil and sweat

What was a major limitation of the first lasers used in fingerprint detection?

• They were too expensive

• They were large and required cooling

• They were too small

• They were not portable

When were portable handheld laser scanners invented?

• In the 1960s

• In the 1990s

• In the 1970s

• In the 1980s

Which department had the only handheld laser on the west coast in 1985?

• Los Angeles Police Department

• Orange County Sheriff's Department

• San Diego Police Department

• San Francisco Police Department

What was the outcome of using the handheld laser scanner on the Nightstalker's vehicle?

• No fingerprints were found

• A fingerprint was detected on the rearview mirror

• The car was damaged

• The laser failed to work

What mistake did the Nightstalker make that was detected by the laser?

• Leaving a piece of clothing

• Leaving a note in the car

• Leaving a fingerprint on the rearview mirror

• Leaving a weapon behind

What might have happened without the use of laser technology in the Nightstalker case?

• The fingerprint might have gone unnoticed

• The suspect would have been caught sooner

• The fingerprint would have been detected by traditional methods

• The car would have been destroyed