For how long should evidence be maintained?

Evidence should be maintained for 90 days to ensure that it is available for any necessary investigation, legal proceedings, or review after the initial incident. This retention period allows sufficient time for any required analysis, examination, and potential use in court or other legal contexts. It is important to strike a balance between preserving evidence for its intended legal purposes and managing storage resources effectively. Retaining evidence for 90 days meets the needs of most standard protocols regarding evidence handling and is often aligned with various legal requirements or agency policies, ensuring that involved parties have adequate time to address any related issues. This standard practice supports accountability and transparency in the handling of evidence, fostering trust in law enforcement and legal processes.