What does "chain of custody" refer to in law enforcement?

"Chain of custody" refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence throughout its lifecycle. This concept is crucial in law enforcement and the judicial system, as it ensures that evidence collected during an investigation is preserved in its original state and that there is a clear record of who has had access to it, when, and under what circumstances. This meticulous documentation is vital for establishing the integrity of the evidence when presented in court, helping to validate its authenticity and admissibility.

When the chain of custody is properly maintained, it minimizes the risk of contamination, alteration, or tampering with the evidence, thus reinforcing the overall credibility of the investigative process. A thorough chain of custody ensures that any evidence presented during legal proceedings has been properly collected and handled, which can significantly impact the outcome of a case.