What essential information should be included on evidence containers or tags?

The most critical information that should be included on evidence containers or tags is the date and time the item was collected. This information is vital for establishing a clear chain of custody and ensuring that the evidence is properly authenticated. Knowing when evidence was collected can help in analyzing its relevance to a case, as well as its condition and integrity over time.

Documentation that includes the date and time aids in maintaining the timeline of events, which can be crucial during investigations, court proceedings, or reviews of the evidence. It assists law enforcement and legal professionals in understanding when a specific piece of evidence was gathered in relation to the overall investigation, which can influence its significance.

While other information, such as the type of evidence, location of the suspect, and a brief description of the item, can be valuable, the date and time are foundational elements that support the evidentiary value and ensure the proper handling of evidence throughout the criminal justice process.