What does a chain of custody refer to?

A chain of custody specifically refers to the chronological documentation or paper trail that records the custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of evidence. It ensures that evidence presented in court is the same as that gathered at the crime scene and establishes the integrity and authenticity of the evidence throughout the legal process. This record includes who collected the evidence, who handled it thereafter, and the conditions under which it was stored.

Maintaining an accurate chain of custody is crucial for the admissibility of evidence in court, as it helps to prevent tampering, contamination, or fabrication. Therefore, the correct answer effectively highlights the significance of knowing every individual who has interacted with the evidence and the circumstances surrounding its handling.