The chain of custody process for hard evidence is straightforward. Many standards and protocols have been put in place to protect the integrity of hard evidence.
However, we live in an age where digital media, and potential digital evidence sources, are abundant. Photos, videos, and sound recordings are admissible forms of evidence in a court of law. Because of their digital – or soft – nature, these forms of evidence are potential targets for tampering, manipulation, and destruction. When it comes to using digital evidence to prove innocence or guilt, protecting the integrity of digital media has never been more important.
In this HxGN TV interview, I talk with Crystal Cody from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Hexagon Safety & Infrastructure’s vice president of product center operations Steve Marz about the issues involved with collecting, safeguarding, and storing digital evidence.Enjoy!