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What Every Law Enforcement Officer Should Know About DNA Evidence

First Responding Officers

Chain of Custody of Evidence

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National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

The chain of custody of evidence is a record of individuals who have had physical possession of the evidence. Documentation is critical to maintaining the integrity of the chain of custody. Maintaining the chain of custody is vital for any type of evidence. In addition, if laboratory analysis reveals that DNA evidence was contaminated, it may be necessary to identify persons who have handled that evidence.

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