At a terrorism event, when preserving evidence, what should you not do?

• A. Document the location and chain of custody
• B. Move evidence to another location
• C. Photograph it before collection
• D. Notify proper authorities immediately

Answer: (B)

Preserving evidence relies on keeping the scene and its contents in the exact state they were found so investigators can determine what happened and maintain a clear chain of custody. Moving items can alter or destroy physical traces, contaminate the evidence, and create gaps in documentation about who handled it and where it was located. That’s why you should document the scene, note the precise location, take photographs before touching anything, and notify the proper authorities immediately. In a terrorism incident, especially with potential hazmat involvement, minimize disturbance and secure the area to prevent further spread or contamination. Moving evidence would break the chain of custody and compromise its integrity, which is why it is not done.