What is the purpose of documenting chain of custody as per the DD 1149 form?

The purpose of documenting chain of custody using the DD 1149 form is fundamentally about ensuring legal accountability for evidence handling. When evidence is collected, it is vital to maintain a clear record of who has handled that evidence, how it has been stored, and any transfers of custody. This meticulous documentation helps establish a reliable history of the evidence from the moment it is collected until it is presented in a legal context. A well-documented chain of custody protects the integrity of the evidence, which is essential in legal proceedings. If the chain is broken or improperly documented, the evidence may be deemed inadmissible in court, jeopardizing the case. Thus, the focus is on maintaining the procedure for accountability and reliability regarding evidence that may be integral to investigations or court cases.