What are the three categories of physical or real evidence?

The correct choice identifies three critical types of evidence that are involved in criminal investigations. These categories help law enforcement and legal professionals to classify the evidence based on its nature and its relation to the crime being investigated.

"Fruits of a crime" refer to the benefits or gains obtained from committing a criminal act, such as stolen property. This category is crucial because it helps to identify the results of the crime and can be directly linked to the perpetrator’s actions.

"Instrumentalities of a crime" are tools or items that were used to commit a crime, such as a weapon or burglar's tools. Identifying these items can be pivotal in understanding how a crime was executed and in connecting suspects to the act.

"Contraband" encompasses illegal items that are prohibited by law, which can include drugs, weapons, or stolen property. The presence of contraband can often indicate illegal activity and aid in establishing the context of the crime.

Together, these categories provide a framework for law enforcement to effectively collect, analyze, and present evidence in a manner that supports investigations and legal proceedings. Understanding these classifications allows investigators to build a more robust case and ensures that all aspects of the crime are adequately documented and addressed.