What is the term for the number of people who handle an item of evidence from collection to case closure?

• A. Evidence log
• B. Chain of evidence
• C. Custody record
• D. Chain of custody

Answer: (D)

Tracking how many people handle an item from collection through case closure is the chain of custody. This term refers to the documented, unbroken sequence of possession and control, noting exactly who had the evidence, when, and under what conditions. Maintaining the chain of custody ensures the item’s integrity and makes its handling transparent, so no link in the chain is missing or altered. While related terms like evidence log or custody record describe parts of the process, and chain of evidence is sometimes used, the formal term that embodies the complete, auditable path from collection to disposition is chain of custody.