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Information Systems

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May 7, 2024

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Implementation of Evidence-Handling and Packaging Procedures Your Name University of Maryland Global Campus WRTG 394 6366 Advanced Business Writing (2235) Prof. His Name 25 June 2023 1

Table of Contents Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................... 4 Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 5 Background…… .................................................................................................................. 5 Purpose ................................................................................................................................. 5 Methodology ........................................................................................................................ 5 Findings…………………………………………………………… ............................................... 6 Prompt Sealing of Evidence………………………………………………………………6 Standardized Packaging Materials and Clear Packaging and Labeling Protocols...……...7 Technological Advancements in Evidence Packaging……………………………………8 Comparative Analysis: Similar Law Enforcement Agencies………………...…………...9 Conclusion ....................................................................................................................................... 9 Recommendations .......................................................................................................................... 10 References ..................................................................................................................................... 11 2

Executive Summary Purpose and Method of this Report This report aims to address the current problem of inadequate evidence-handling and packaging procedures within our agency. The purposes of this report are to:  determine the shortcomings in our existing practices  recommend improvements to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of evidence handling. The methods employed include extensive secondary research, such as analyzing case studies, reviewing industry standards and guidelines, examining authoritative publications, exploring technological advancements, and conducting a comparative analysis of similar law enforcement agencies. Findings and Conclusions The review revealed that the current evidence-handling and packaging procedures within the agency do not align with authoritative sources and industry standards. There are deficiencies in the immediate sealing of evidence at crime scenes, leading to an increased risk of contamination, cross-transfer, and loss of evidentiary value. The lack of clear guidance on equipment reuse and sanitation further compounds the problem. Mishandling of evidence can have significant consequences, including rendering evidence inadmissible in court and compromising the credibility of investigations. Therefore, addressing this problem is crucial to enhance the quality and integrity of investigations and bolster public trust in the agency. Recommendations for Improving Evidence Handling and Packaging Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed to improve evidence handling and packaging procedures within the agency. These recommendations include:  Implementing immediate sealing protocols at crime scenes to prevent contamination and maintain evidentiary integrity.  Establishing clear policies and regulations for the reuse and sanitation of equipment, such as tape measures and evidence marking tents.  Adopting tamper-evident packaging materials as the primary sealing mechanism for evidence containers to enhance security and traceability.  Streamlining the evidence packaging process by initialing manufacturer seals instead of applying additional seals, saving time and reducing costs.  Enhancing temporary storage capabilities by equipping duty vehicles with temperature- controlled units to mitigate evidence degradation and loss. 3

Introduction This research report aims to address the problem of inadequate evidence handling and packaging procedures within our organization. The current practices do not align with best practices outlined in authoritative sources, resulting in potential contamination, cross-transfer, and loss of evidentiary value. By conducting extensive secondary research and proposing improvements, this report seeks to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of evidence handling, ultimately leading to more successful investigations and prosecutions. Background According to Dr. Edmond Locard (Shaw, 2023), when a crime is committed, the perpetrator leaves behind traces of their presence, and at the same time, picks up and carries away traces from the crime scene. These traces can take the form of fibers, hair, fingerprints, DNA, soil, or any other type of physical evidence. The problem at hand is the inadequate handling and packaging of evidence within our organization, particularly within our agency. Our current procedures do not adhere to authoritative sources such as the Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 3-39.12 and Army Regulation (AR) 195-5. Failure to immediately seal evidence at the crime scene increases the risk of contamination, cross-transfer, and loss of evidentiary value. Moreover, there is a lack of clear guidance on policies or regulations regarding the reuse and sanitation of equipment, such as tape measures and evidence marking tents. The urgency to address this problem stems from its significant impact on the outcome of cases and the credibility of our investigations. Improper packaging and handling can render evidence inadmissible in court, as demonstrated by the O.J. Simpson case, where mishandling of evidence led to its refutation by the defense. By addressing this problem, we can enhance the quality and integrity of our investigations, thereby bolstering public trust and confidence in our work. Purpose The purpose of this review is to gather insights and information from various sources regarding evidence-handling and packaging procedures. By analyzing case studies, industry standards, technological advancements, and comparative analysis, the review aims to provide recommendations for enhancing evidence management practices. Methodology To gain a comprehensive understanding of evidence handling and packaging procedures, extensive secondary research was conducted. This research involved the following components: 1. Examination of Successful Practices: Analysis of case studies and reports from law enforcement agencies known for their effective evidence-handling and packaging procedures. Studying their approaches, protocols, and techniques help identify best 4

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