Effective Date: 2023-10-15
Maintain a Strict Chain of Custody for All Evidence:
The "chain of custody" is a procedural method that documents the chronological and comprehensive record of the evidence from the moment it's collected until it's presented in court. This process ensures that the integrity of the evidence is preserved and that it can be relied upon as credible in legal proceedings.
A strict chain of custody should begin when the evidence is first collected or seized by the law enforcement officer. The officer who collects the evidence should clearly identify and label it. This initial step is crucial because it establishes the starting point of the chain of custody.
The officer must ensure that the evidence is properly sealed, packaged, or documented to prevent tampering, contamination, or loss during handling and transportation. This includes using appropriate containers, seals, and labels to secure the evidence.
Whenever the evidence is transferred from one person to another or from one location to another, these transfers should be meticulously documented. Each document should include details such as who handled the evidence, the date and time of transfer, the reason for the transfer, and any relevant identification numbers or labels.
If multiple parties are involved in the handling of evidence (for example, forensic experts, evidence custodians, and court personnel), every handoff must be recorded. This documentation continues until the evidence is presented in court.
Document Every Transfer, Handling, and Storage of Evidence:
To maintain an unbroken chain of custody, it is essential to document every instance of transfer, handling, or storage of the evidence. This documentation acts as a safeguard against any allegations of evidence tampering or contamination.
Anytime evidence is accessed or moved, whether for forensic analysis, storage, or presentation in court, it must be meticulously recorded. This record should include the names of individuals involved, the date and time, the reason for handling, and any observations regarding the condition of the evidence.
Secure storage is an integral part of maintaining the chain of custody. Proper storage procedures should be followed to ensure that the evidence remains unaltered until it's needed in court. This includes keeping evidence in a controlled environment, preventing unauthorized access, and adhering to any special storage requirements for different types of evidence (e.g., temperature-sensitive materials).
The documented chain of custody serves as a legal record and can be crucial in proving the authenticity and reliability of the evidence during court proceedings.
A strict chain of custody is critical in ensuring the credibility of evidence presented in court. Properly documenting every step of evidence collection, handling, and storage helps safeguard against claims of tampering, loss, or contamination, ensuring that the evidence can be trusted as an accurate representation of the facts. It is a fundamental aspect of maintaining the integrity of law enforcement investigations and legal proceedings.