Final answer:
The statement is true; under Brady v. Maryland, police must preserve evidence that might be favorable to the defense. This aligns with the exclusionary rule, which bars evidence obtained illegally from being used in court.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the police have a duty to preserve physical evidence that may be favorable or exculpatory to the defense under the Brady v. Maryland rule is True. The U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Brady v. Maryland established that the prosecution must turn over all evidence that might exonerate the defendant to the defense. Failure to do so is a violation of the defendant's right to due process. The principle that evidence obtained illegally, such as without a warrant and not fitting an exception, cannot be used in court is known as the exclusionary rule. This rule also applies to any further evidence that is gained as a result of the initial illegal search or seizure, described metaphorically as the "fruit of the poisonous tree." The rights of the accused, such as the right to remain silent, right to counsel, and presumption of innocence, are core principles designed to maintain the integrity of the legal process and protect individuals against wrongful conviction.