What is the documented list of persons who have handled evidence at a crime scene known as?

The documented list of persons who have handled evidence at a crime scene is known as the chain of custody. This term refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence, ensuring that it can be tracked and verified from the time it is collected until it is presented in court. The chain of custody is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the evidence and ensuring it is not tampered with, altered, or contaminated.

Each person who comes into contact with the evidence is required to sign and date the chain of custody form, which provides a clear and verifiable trail of who has managed the evidence at all stages. This documentation is vital for legal proceedings, as it helps establish the evidence's authenticity and reliability, reinforcing its admissibility in court.

In contrast, terms like the chain of evidence and evidence log do not specifically refer to the list of individuals who have handled evidence, while evidence trail suggests a similar concept but lacks the formal legal implications and documentation associated with the chain of custody. The accuracy and thoroughness of the chain of custody directly affect the prosecution's ability to present a strong case, making it an essential component of criminal investigations.