What is the chain of custody?

• A. Documentation of everyone who handled evidence, including when, why, and what changes were made.
• B. A method to store evidence in a locker.
• C. A list of evidentiary items found at scene.
• D. A security plan for a correctional facility.

Answer: (A)

The chain of custody is the documented history of who has handled evidence, when they handled it, why they handled it, and what was done to or with the evidence. It begins at collection and continues through every transfer, storage, analysis, and eventual presentation, with notes on any changes in condition, packaging, or storage.

This documentation creates accountability and preserves the evidence’s integrity. By showing a clear, unbroken record of all hands the item passed through, it helps prove that no tampering or contamination occurred and that the evidence remains authentic and admissible in court or at review. If the chain is broken or poorly kept, the evidence can be challenged or excluded due to questions about its reliability.

Storing or listing items alone, or having a general security plan, do not themselves establish this ongoing, traceable history of handling and changes.