What is the term for the documented process regarding the handling of evidence?

The documented process regarding the handling of evidence is referred to as the Chain of Custody. This term is critical in loss prevention and legal contexts because it ensures that evidence collected during an investigation can be reliably linked to its source, maintained in its original condition, and accounted for at every step from collection to presentation in court.

The Chain of Custody involves detailed documentation that tracks who collected the evidence, how it was stored, and who had access to it throughout the investigation. This meticulous process is essential for preserving the integrity of the evidence, as any breaks in the chain could lead to challenges in testimony or the admissibility of the evidence in legal proceedings.

The other options do not pertain to the process of handling evidence. Collusion refers to a secret agreement between parties for deceitful purposes, refund fraud involves deceptive practices related to returns and refunds, and excessive force relates to the inappropriate use of physical force typically by law enforcement. Each of these terms has its context but does not relate to the documentation and management of evidence in investigations.