Evidence Preservation

We recognize that reporting misconduct is a difficult decision to make, especially if the report involves someone who is not a stranger. We encourage you to keep all evidence that might support a future investigation should you choose to make a report at a later date. Evidence that you should consider preserving includes:

Clothing, bedding or any object that may contain bodily fluids (should be stored in cardboard boxes or paper bags). Consider labeling the outside of the box or bag. For example, 鈥渢-shirt, last worn 01-20-2020.鈥�

Electronic communications (e.g., text messages, emails, social media posts). Consider making printouts of the electronic messages, note the source and date of the communications (if not already time and date stamped).

Photographs (including photos stored on smartphones, personal computers, and other devices). Consider making printouts as electronic devices might break or simply not work with the passage of time.

A forensic sexual assault examination report. An official examination conducted by a SANE nurse to collect evidence and report patient's medical condition. Consult the local emergency room to request an examination. Support Services

List of contact information. Consider making a list of names and contact details of potential witnesses.

Journal notes or calendars with relevant information. Consider writing down details of the incident(s).

Any evidence that might be lost through an upgrade or replacement of equipment or technology, consider backing up digital files in multiple places. Some software and certain accounts may simply be lost, or access discontinued, with the passage of time.

Any physical, documentary or electronic data that might be helpful or relevant to an investigation should be preserved. When preserving evidence, find a safe place to store it.