When maintaining chain of custody, what is true about evidence tags?

Maintaining a proper chain of custody is crucial in forensic investigations to ensure that evidence is handled and stored correctly, preserving its integrity from the crime scene to the courtroom. Each piece of evidence must be clearly identified, and the documentation associated with it must include the names of individuals who handle the evidence at every stage.

Having each person sign the evidence tag provides a clear record of who has had possession of the evidence at any given time. This is essential for establishing accountability and ensuring that the evidence has not been tampered with or altered. The signature signifies that the individual has taken responsibility for the evidence during their handling, which is critical in maintaining its admissibility in court.

In contrast, it is not true that one tag suffices for all evidence, as different items can require their own tags to track them individually. Additionally, evidence tags are not restricted to only physical evidence; they are necessary for all forms of evidence, including digital or testimonial evidence, to keep thorough records of the evidence's chain. Lastly, tags are not optional for non-critical evidence; every piece of evidence must be properly tagged to maintain the integrity of the investigation.