What does spoliation refer to in the context of evidence handling?

Spoliation refers to the destruction or alteration of evidence that is relevant to a legal proceeding. In the context of evidence handling, it is crucial because preserving evidence integrity is essential for fair legal processes and investigations. When evidence is spoliated, it can undermine the trustworthiness of the information and potentially impact the outcome of legal cases. This may include anything from intentionally destroying physical evidence to inadvertently altering documentation. Understanding spoliation is vital for investigators, as they must take steps to ensure evidence is properly maintained and protected to uphold the justice system's integrity.