Upon concluding an investigation, what should officers do to dispose of used items?

The appropriate procedure for disposing of used items at the conclusion of an investigation is to dispose of them properly. This ensures that all evidence, whether it is collected or discarded, is handled in a manner that adheres to legal standards and maintains the integrity of the investigation process. Proper disposal may involve returning items to the appropriate owner, documenting their disposal in the case file, or following specific agency protocols for the destruction or disposal of evidence.

This approach minimizes the risk of contamination or loss of evidence and protects the chain of custody. Additionally, improper disposal methods, such as leaving items at the scene or throwing them in the trash, can lead to complications in future investigations or legal proceedings. Reusing items for future cases can also compromise the integrity of evidence, as it could mix different leads or sources, leading to potential contamination or misinterpretation. Therefore, proper disposal is critical for maintaining professionalism and upholding the standards of criminal investigations.