When does the chain of custody start?

• A. When the location is observed.
• B. After the first witness interview.
• C. When video footage is reviewed.
• D. After all evidence is secured.

Answer: (A)

Chain of custody begins the moment evidence is first observed in the field. When investigators notice something at the scene that could be evidence, they document what was found, exactly where, when, and who observed it. This initial observation creates the first entry in the custody record and establishes the initial transfer of responsibility for the item. Later steps—such as interviewing witnesses, reviewing video, or actually securing and packaging the item—continue and extend the chain, but they do not establish its starting point. Waiting to start the record until after securing everything or after other steps would create gaps and undermine the evidence’s integrity.