Final answer:
The proper procedures to establish and track the chain of custody of evidence include documenting the evidence, securing it, maintaining a custody log, transporting it properly, lab analysis and documentation, and secure storage and retrieval.
Step-by-step explanation:
Establishing and tracking the chain of custody of evidence is crucial in legal proceedings to ensure the integrity and admissibility of evidence. Here are the proper procedures:
Documenting the evidence: Record detailed information about the evidence, including its description, location, time and date of collection, and the names of the individuals involved.
Securing the evidence: Safely store and protect the evidence to prevent tampering or contamination. Use evidence bags, seals, or containers that are tamper-evident and properly labeled.
Maintaining a custody log: Create a chain-of-custody log that documents each person who handles the evidence, including their name, job title, date, time, and purpose of access.
Properly transporting the evidence: Follow established protocols for transporting evidence to maintain its integrity. Use sealed containers or evidence storage units, and document any transfers or handovers.
Lab analysis and documentation: If the evidence needs to be analyzed in a laboratory, ensure proper handling, storage, and documentation of the evidence throughout the analysis process.
Secure storage and retrieval: After analysis, store the evidence in a secure location, and maintain a clear record of its storage location. Keep the evidence accessible for future court proceedings.