How should physical evidence be collected and stored to maintain integrity?

• A. Labeling is unnecessary if you know the item.
• B. Use proper packaging, labeling, sealing, and securing; maintain chain of custody; document.
• C. Seal items but not document.
• D. Store items loosely in a drawer.

Answer: (B)

Preserving evidence integrity means controlling how items are handled from collection to storage so their condition and provenance can be trusted in court. Using proper packaging, labeling, sealing, and securing; maintaining chain of custody; and thoroughly documenting every step creates an auditable trail that shows the item remained in its original state and only authorized personnel accessed it. Labeling is essential even if you think you know the item, because it ties the item to the specific case, source, and details of collection. Sealing helps guard against tampering, but without documentation and a maintained chain of custody, you can’t prove authenticity or continuity. Storing items loosely in a drawer risks contamination, loss, or damage, which can compromise the evidence. The combined practice ensures reliability and admissibility.