What are the two essential aspects of proper evidence handling?

The correct answer highlights two critical factors in ensuring the integrity of evidence handling within law enforcement: proper documentation and the preservation of the chain of custody.

Proper documentation involves accurately recording all pertinent information about the evidence, including when and where it was collected, who collected it, and any observations made at the time of collection. This documentation is vital because it creates a clear and traceable narrative regarding the evidence, which can be essential for legal proceedings. It provides a record that can be reviewed to understand the context and handling of the evidence.

Maintaining the chain of custody is equally important. This refers to the process of keeping track of who has handled the evidence from the moment it is collected until it is presented in court. A preserved chain of custody demonstrates that the evidence has not been altered or tampered with, thus maintaining its integrity and reliability as a key component of the investigation and prosecution.

Together, these aspects ensure that evidence remains credible and admissible in court, which is foundational for any successful prosecution or investigation.