Law enforcement agencies use various evidence tracking methods, from computer systems to handwritten records. Evidence tracking is crucial for legal and ethical reasons, and systems must record and track evidence as it is collected, moved, and disposed of. Computer systems can tag evidence with barcodes or RFID and interface with cameras. Companies offer computerized evidence tracking systems and physical traceability systems. Modernization requirements have forced some agencies to adopt cyber evidence tracking systems.
Law enforcement agencies around the world use a variety of evidence tracking methods to control, monitor and protect the evidence entrusted to them. These systems range from computer systems with highly automated capabilities to more antiquated systems, such as handwritten records. In some regions, modernization requirements from national governments have forced law enforcement agencies to adopt cyber evidence tracking systems to comply with regulations.
Evidence is a key part of criminal investigations. There are a number of legal and ethical requirements involved in handling evidence, ranging from gathering evidence to reduce the risk of contamination to maintaining chain of custody and ensuring that evidence is always taken into account. Evidence tracking is used to record items in evidence, to track them as they are moved, and to enter final notes on the arrangement of evidence after it is no longer needed.
The development of evidence tracking systems begins in the field, where evidence is collected. Computer systems often have portable capabilities, which allow criminal investigators to tag evidence with barcodes or radio frequency identification (RFID) tags as it is collected, and to enter notes into the system describing the evidence, noting who collected it and provide other information. These systems also interface with cameras so that images of in situ tests can be attached to the test log for future reference. Other systems may require individuals to copy information from bags and boxes used for evidence collection to a handwritten ledger or non-portable computer system in the evidence room.
Once evidence is returned to a law enforcement agency, an evidence tracking system must be able to pinpoint its whereabouts and keep a record of each time the evidence is moved. Evidence can be examined, used in court or stored for the long term. It can also be destroyed or sold if it is no longer needed. An evidence tracking system must have a mechanism for recording activities involving certain evidence, whether it is a log attached to an evidence bag and signed by people who interact with the evidence or a computer record.
Several companies make computerized evidence tracking systems that can be purchased in bundles from law enforcement agencies. These systems usually work with barcodes or RFID. It is also possible to purchase packaged physical traceability systems, including forms to attach to evidence, records maintained by personnel supervising areas where evidence is held, and documents to document the final disposition of evidence.
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