Which element should be included in a basic evidence log after collection?

• A. Suspect's name and social security number.
• B. The owner's contact information.
• C. Evidence bag color and scent.
• D. Item description, date/time, location, collector, chain-of-custody initials, disposition, and storage location.

Answer: (D)

The essential idea here is keeping a clear, accountable record of each item from the moment it’s collected until its final disposition. A basic evidence log should capture details that uniquely identify the item and show its handling history: a thorough item description, the date and time of collection, the exact location where it was found, who collected it, the chain-of-custody initials showing every transfer or handoff, the disposition indicating what happened to the item, and the storage location so it can be retrieved later. These fields together create a traceable trail that maintains integrity and supports admissibility in court by proving continuous control of the evidence.

Other details like the suspect’s name and Social Security number, or the owner’s contact information, aren’t necessary to document the handling of the item itself within the log. They may appear in related records but don’t establish the custody trail. Color or scent of the bag may be noted elsewhere, but they’re not the core elements needed to track custody and control in a basic log.