Why might a latent print be significant in a criminal investigation?

A latent print is significantly important in a criminal investigation because it can provide strong physical evidence linking a suspect to a crime scene. Latent prints are often left behind on surfaces during the commission of a crime and can be processed and analyzed to identify individuals.

When a latent print is matched to a suspect's fingerprints, it serves as compelling evidence establishing that the suspect was present at the crime scene. This connection can be crucial in building a case for prosecution, as it can help demonstrate not only the suspect’s involvement but also the means and opportunity regarding the crime.

While latent prints may be part of record-keeping in some contexts, their primary role in investigations is as a means of establishing connections between suspects and criminal activities, which is why their significance is heightened in this context. As for confirming alibis, while it can potentially support or contradict a suspect's story, it is the direct linking to the crime scene that truly highlights their importance.