Handling and Securing Evidence for Security Guards

In the field of security, it is crucial to handle and secure evidence properly. 

The proper handling and securing of evidence can make a significant difference in the outcome of an investigation, as it can provide valuable information that can help solve a case. 

This blog post will outline the importance of handling and securing evidence for security guards and provide steps and best practices that can be used in evidence handling and security.

Types of Evidence

There are different types of evidence that can be collected during an investigation. They include physical evidence, documentary evidence, and digital evidence.

Physical evidence is tangible evidence that can be touched, seen, or heard. 

Examples of physical evidence include blood, hair, fingerprints, shoe prints, and weapons.

Documentary evidence is written or recorded evidence that can provide information about a case. Examples of documentary evidence include police reports, witness statements, and photographs.

Digital evidence is electronic evidence that can be collected from computers, mobile devices, and other electronic devices. 

Examples of digital evidence include emails, text messages, social media posts, and computer files.

Steps to Handle and Secure Evidence

Proper handling and securing of evidence are essential to maintain the integrity of the evidence and to prevent contamination or tampering. 

The following steps can be used to handle and secure evidence:

1. Document the Evidence

Before collecting the evidence, it is essential to document it. This documentation should include the date, time, and location of the evidence. Additionally, a description of the evidence, including its condition and location, should be documented.

2. Preserve the Evidence

Once the evidence is identified, it should be preserved to prevent contamination or tampering. Preservation can be achieved by using gloves, tweezers, or other tools to handle the evidence.

3. Collect the Evidence

The collection of evidence should be done carefully to ensure that the evidence is not contaminated or destroyed. When collecting physical evidence, it is important to use appropriate collection methods, such as swabbing or scraping.

4. Secure the Evidence

After the evidence is collected, it should be secured to prevent tampering or loss. The evidence should be placed in a secure location, such as a locked evidence locker or safe.

5. Transport the Evidence

If the evidence needs to be transported, it should be done in a secure manner to prevent loss or contamination. Chain of custody documentation should be completed, and the evidence should be signed in and out by each person who handles it.

Best Practices for Handling and Securing Evidence

In addition to following the steps outlined above, there are several best practices that should be followed when handling and securing evidence. 

These best practices include:

1. Wear Gloves and Other Protective Gear

When handling evidence, it is important to wear gloves and other protective gear to prevent contamination.

2. Avoid Contaminating the Evidence

Evidence should be handled carefully to prevent contamination. For example, when collecting physical evidence, it is important to avoid touching the evidence with bare hands.

3. Keep the Evidence in a Secure Location

Evidence should be kept in a secure location to prevent tampering or loss. The location should be locked, and only authorized personnel should have access.

4. Maintain a Chain of Custody

A chain of custody should be maintained for all evidence. This documentation should include the date and time the evidence was collected, who collected it, and who had possession of the evidence at all times.

5. Document All Actions Taken with the Evidence

All actions taken with the evidence should be documented. This documentation should include who handled the evidence, when it was handled, and what was done with it.

Digital Evidence Considerations

Digital evidence is becoming increasingly important in investigations, and there are some specific considerations that should be taken when handling and securing digital evidence.

1. Preservation and Collection of Digital Evidence

Preservation and collection of digital evidence should be done using specialized software and tools to ensure that the evidence is collected without alteration or contamination. 

For example, digital evidence can be collected using forensically sound methods, such as making a bit-for-bit copy of the device.

2. Use of Specialized Software and Tools

Specialized software and tools, such as forensic software, should be used when handling digital evidence. This software can help in the analysis of digital evidence, ensuring that it is collected and processed accurately.

3. Chain of Custody for Digital Evidence

A chain of custody should be maintained for digital evidence, just as it is for physical evidence. This documentation should include who had access to the device, what was done with the device, and when it was accessed.

Final Words

Handling and securing evidence is crucial for security guards in maintaining the integrity of evidence and ensuring that it can be used in investigations. 

The proper handling of evidence can provide valuable information that can help solve a case. The steps outlined above, including documentation, preservation, collection, securing, and transportation, should be followed to ensure proper handling and security of evidence. 

Best practices such as wearing gloves and other protective gear, avoiding contamination, maintaining a chain of custody, and documenting all actions taken with the evidence should also be followed. 

When dealing with digital evidence, specialized software and tools should be used to ensure that the evidence is collected and processed accurately.