Electronic Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for First Responders, Second Edition

April 14, 2008

Chapter 6. Packaging, Transportation and Storage of Digital Evidence

Section 2 — Transportation Procedures

When transporting digital evidence, the first responder should—

• YIELD! Keep digital evidence away from magnetic fields such as those produced by radio transmitters, speaker magnets, and magnetic mount emergency lights. Other potential hazards that the first responder should be aware of include seats heaters and any device or material that can produce static electricity.
• Avoid keeping digital evidence in a vehicle for prolonged periods of time. Heat, cold, and humidity can damage or destroy digital evidence.
• Ensure that computers and electronic devices are packaged and secured during transportation to prevent damage from shock and vibration.
• Document the transportation of the digital evidence and maintain the chain of custody on all evidence transported.