Which type of evidence must be documented with a CG-5117 tag?

The necessity of documenting seized evidence with a CG-5117 tag is rooted in the importance of maintaining a clear, organized chain of custody within law enforcement and maritime operations. The CG-5117 tag serves as an essential piece of documentation that allows for the proper tracking and management of evidence that has been confiscated.

When evidence is seized, it is crucial to ensure that its origin, state, and handling processes can be verified at any point in time. The CG-5117 tag contributes to this by providing detailed information such as the location of seizure, the date, the handling officer's details, and other relevant notes, all of which play a pivotal role in legal proceedings and ensuring that evidence remains untampered with.

In contrast, other types of evidence, such as witness statements or presumptive evidence, do not require the same level of formal physical tagging and documentation as seized items, which need more rigid tracking due to their potential impact on legal outcomes and investigations. Therefore, the process associated with seized evidence, including the use of a CG-5117 tag, is designed specifically to uphold the integrity of the evidence throughout its lifecycle.