Which of the following is NOT a requirement for physical evidence?

Physical evidence plays a critical role in criminal investigations and prosecutions. For evidence to be admissible in court and valid for investigation purposes, it must meet certain requirements.

Among the requirements, having a documented history is essential, but it is not an absolute requisite for physical evidence in the same way that the other options are. Physical evidence must be legally obtained to ensure that it follows constitutional protections against unlawful searches and seizures. It must also be identifiable to establish a clear connection to the case at hand, whether it pertains to the crime scene, suspects, or victims. Furthermore, maintaining a chain of custody is vital to preserve the integrity of the evidence, ensuring that it can be traced and verified from the time it is collected until it is presented in court.

While a documented history can enhance the reliability and relevance of the evidence, its absence does not necessarily disqualify evidence from consideration. Thus, it stands apart from the critical requirements outlined in the other options.