Which term describes the initial step of collecting evidential material from a scene?

• A. Storage
• B. Transfer
• C. Analysis
• D. Collection

Answer: (D)

The process of collecting evidential material from a scene is the collection step. At this stage, items found at the scene are gathered, properly packaged, labeled, and documented with where and how they were found, while steps are taken to prevent contamination and to maintain the chain of custody. This initial gathering distinguishes itself from storage, which happens after collection to keep evidence secure; transfer, which is the movement of evidence between people or locations; and analysis, which is the examination and testing of the evidence. So the term that describes the first action taken to gather evidential material is collection.