PZ-Code; The Palmar Zone Code for Latent and 10-Print Examination

         Palmar Zone Code (PZ-CODE)

         Formally introduced in the book “Contrast: An Investigator’s Basic Reference Guide to Fingerprint Identification Concepts” 2007, the PZ-Code was custom designed to support latent and ten print examiners rather than automated palm print computer systems.  Accordingly, the PZ-Code is ideal for fingerprint comparison notes and information sharing, and can complement other AFIS nomenclature. 

 

PZ-Code

            In order to facilitate a better exchange of information and notes between multiple latent print examiners working on latent comparisons, the alphanumeric PZ-Code system was devised.  The Palmar Exemplar & Latent Zone Code (PZ-Code) is a very simple division of the palm into zones commonly encountered by examiners.  Each area can be reference in examiner notes simply by writing this short code.  Instead of writing a note referencing comparisons of the "Left thenar" you can simply write  "LF". (see chart) To reference the third joint in the right ring finger you can simple write "43."  You can also reference a larger area by joining two codes together.  "LE-LG" is the hypo thenar area of the left hand.   "82-83" is the second and third joint of the left middle finger.

            The lower palmar area is divided into seven zones that run A-G with zone A starting under the index finger on both hands.  The zones A through G are prefaced with “R” or “L” to designate which hand is being referenced.  The divisions are very intuitive in that after just a few minutes of study you will rarely need to actually look up a zone on a PZ-Code chart.

            The PZ-Code actually goes even further with the addition of information that is located in the “Legend” section of the chart.  The PZ-code allows the latent print examiner to reference a specific exemplar impression in a large stack of 10-print cards.  An example would be:  "3r 3/5/2003" which means; right middle finger rolled impression on the specific 10-print card dated 3-5-03.  “3p” would be a plain impression.  The PZ-Code is always written in the proper orientation of the latent.  With this information, a second examiner, or any examiner wishing to review or prepare a case, can do so quickly and efficiently no matter how many 10-prints there are available.

            PZ-code is supplemental to other identifying information that may be needed and is intended to be used as a note.   However, PZ-Codes can also be used to notify a booking officer that specific major case prints are needed on a subject.  Some agencies allow for booking notes that are attached to personal information that could include a case number and a PZ-Code so that the booking officer will know exactly what area of the palmar surface should be printed with extreme care.  This is where a reference to a tip may come in handy.  If a booking officer reads a request for exemplar printing PZ-Code "2T" for case 03-12345, the officer will be able to make several impressions of the right index finger tip, knowing that good detail will be needed for some pending comparison.

            It is hoped that this supplemental coding system (supplemental to various AFIS Palm systems) will help examiners better communicate with each other, the booking officers, as well as make peer review simpler.  Another added advantage is that the examiner who wishes to review their case prior to court will have more detailed notes to assist them.  This is especially valuable in rush or surprise cases that provide little time proper case preparation.

                       

Craig A. Coppock