What should be done with evidence sealed in packages for security purposes?

Sealing evidence in such a way that opening it causes obvious damage is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the evidence. This method serves as a protective measure, ensuring that any tampering or unauthorized access to the evidence is immediately noticeable. A properly sealed package is intended to preserve the evidence in its original condition, so if someone tries to open it, there will be visible signs of interference, which can be critical in legal settings where the chain of custody must be maintained.

In the context of criminal justice, protecting evidence is paramount. If evidence can be easily reopened, this increases the risk of contamination and compromised integrity, which could undermine its admissibility in court. Similarly, using reusable tape or loosely sealing packages could allow for air exposure or tampering, posing risks to the evidence's condition. Therefore, sealing evidence in a manner that would destroy the package upon opening establishes a clear barrier and ensures that the integrity and reliability of the evidence are upheld throughout the legal process.