Describe the collection of physical evidence.

Description should include

• documenting the evidence (e.g., photography, placement in diagram, notes)
• acquiring an appropriate sample or quantity
• acquiring a control sample
• preserving the evidence (i.e., using appropriate materials based on type of evidence)
• packaging the evidence (i.e., marking with case number, date, time, item number, location, initials)
• establishing and preserving the chain of custody.

Process/Skill Questions:

• Who is responsible for establishing the chain of custody?
• Why is documentation of evidence important when collecting evidence?
• What are things an officer must consider when deciding the best way to package evidence?