In policing, what does the term "evidence handling" refer to?

The term "evidence handling" specifically refers to the collection and preservation of physical evidence. This process is crucial in law enforcement as it ensures that any physical items collected during an investigation are properly documented, preserved, and stored to maintain their integrity. This includes everything from securing the crime scene to transporting evidence in a manner that prevents contamination or degradation. Accurate evidence handling is vital for successful prosecutions, as it directly impacts the reliability of evidence presented in court.

This term encompasses not only the initial gathering of evidence but also the ongoing management of that evidence throughout the judicial process. Proper evidence handling helps establish a chain of custody, which is essential for demonstrating that the evidence has not been altered or tampered with since it was collected. Maintaining rigorous standards in evidence handling is fundamental to preserving public trust in the law enforcement and judicial systems.