What is the primary purpose of physical evidence in an investigation?

The primary purpose of physical evidence in an investigation is to reveal facts of the case. Physical evidence consists of tangible items that can be collected, analyzed, and examined in relation to the crime scene. This evidence can include anything from fingerprints, blood samples, weapons, and other materials that are directly linked to the crime.

Revealing facts is essential because physical evidence can confirm or refute testimonies, establish connections between suspects and victims, and establish a timeline of events. Its reliability stems from the fact that it often provides objective, scientific support that can be scrutinized in a court setting. Investigators rely on this evidence to piece together the narrative of what occurred during a crime, aiding in the overall understanding and clarification of the case.

While legal grounds for arrests, plea bargaining, and investigative reports are important aspects of criminal investigations, they are not the primary role of physical evidence. Those elements may rely on the presence of physical evidence but do not define its fundamental purpose in the investigative process.