Which type of evidence can often include official records, publications, or documents?

Documentary evidence is defined as any evidence that is presented in the form of documents or records. This category encompasses a range of materials, including official records, publications, contracts, reports, and other written documentation that can support claims or provide information related to a case. This evidence is crucial in investigations because it can often provide a factual basis for understanding events, corroborating testimonies, or establishing timelines.

In the context of crime scene investigations, documentary evidence can play a pivotal role in piecing together the circumstances surrounding a crime, as it may include police reports, witness statements, or even financial records that may provide insight into the motivations or actions of individuals involved. By using such evidence, investigators can build a more comprehensive picture of the events in question. The other types of evidence, while important, do not typically include documents in the same way; for instance, testimonial evidence relies on oral statements, physical evidence refers to tangible objects, and digital evidence pertains to information stored electronically.