Canton, Cherokee County, Ga. April 18, 2008- The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is preparing to go on-line with a new AFIS computer system that will accurately identify and match known fingerprints of suspects as well as fingerprints from crime scenes (latent prints). These prints are matched to fingerprints on file with the GBI, FBI, and fingerprints on file with the Sheriff’s Office.

Known prints and latent prints are scanned into the system in an effort to match millions of prints on file with the GBI and FBI – with results in a matter of minutes. The print examiner will then match the questioned prints with the results.

The AFIS system is a valuable tool in crime fighting and is equally valuable in identifying persons who are arrested using false identification and false names – most notably illegal aliens who routinely use false names when arrested. In addition, the system is a critical tool in the identification of sex offenders who may attempt to use false names to circumvent the criminal justice system. AFIS will work in conjunction with the LIVE SCAN system currently in use at the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office.

Plans are for the installation, training, and connection to be completed in the coming weeks.