After photo documentation, you may have to cover, move, or even what to an item for later processing?

In the context of crime scene investigations, collecting an item is a crucial step to preserve evidence for later analysis. After documenting the scene through photographs, the next logical action is to collect items that are relevant to the investigation. This process ensures that physical evidence is preserved in its original condition for forensic analysis, which may include fingerprinting, DNA testing, or other forms of evidence examination.

Labeling an item is related to the collection process, as items often need to be labeled once they are collected to maintain proper chain of custody. However, merely labeling does not suffice as it does not involve the actual removal of evidence from the scene. Discarding or ignoring items would compromise the integrity of the investigation and may lead to the loss of vital evidence. Therefore, it is essential to collect items properly to ensure that they can be analyzed thoroughly, contributing to the overall investigation.