Which statement about chain of custody is true?

The statement that chain of custody ensures the integrity of evidence is a foundational principle in criminal justice and forensic science. Chain of custody refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence from the time it is collected until it is presented in court. This process is critical because it establishes that the evidence has remained untampered with and reliable throughout the investigative and judicial processes.

When the chain of custody is properly maintained, it prevents the possibility of evidence being altered, contaminated, or replaced. It involves meticulous record-keeping about who collected the evidence, where it was stored, who handled it, and how it was transferred. This documentation is essential for establishing the credibility of evidence in court, as the integrity of evidence directly impacts the case's outcome.

Understanding chain of custody emphasizes the importance of each step in the handling of evidence, ensuring that it is admissible in court and trustworthy for the investigation's findings. Thus, recognizing the significance of chain of custody in preserving evidence integrity is crucial for all law enforcement and legal professionals.