What could happen as a result of a break in the "chain of custody"?

A break in the "chain of custody" can have significant implications for the legal process, particularly regarding the handling and preservation of evidence. The chain of custody refers to the documentation and handling process that ensures evidence is collected, preserved, and accounted for throughout an investigation. When this chain is broken, several consequences can arise.

First, evidence that has been compromised or improperly handled due to a break in the chain of custody may be deemed inadmissible in court. Courts require a clear, uninterrupted chain of custody to ensure that the evidence being presented is authentic and has not been tampered with. If there is uncertainty regarding how evidence was collected or maintained, a judge may rule it inadmissible, affecting the prosecution's case.

Secondly, if the evidence is thrown into question, it could lead to the accused walking free. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and if key evidence is deemed unreliable and is not presented in court, it may weaken the prosecution's case sufficiently to result in an acquittal.

Finally, the professionalism of law enforcement or the investigative team may also be called into question. A break in the chain of custody can indicate negligence or a lack of adherence to established protocols, undermining the credibility of the investigators involved and affecting