This procedure facilitates processing and handling of the evidence by the evidence
custodian and the laboratory examiner. The evidence tag should be filled out using
ink.
Record and Form Requirements
DA Form 4137 is referred to as the custody document.
It is designed to be used as
a receipt and to record the following:
o
Chain of custody.
o
Authority for final disposition.
o
Final disposition.
o
Witnessing of evidence destruction.
Entries on the form are typed or printed legibly in ink. The requirement is for an
original and three copies. Distribution of the copies is as follows:
o
The original and one copy to the evidence custodian.
o
The second copy is returned to the investigator for inclusion in the case
file.
o
The third copy is used as
a receipt when evidence is received from
an
individual.
A sample DA Form 4137 was depicted previously.
See Figures 1-9 and 1-10.
Evidence Custodian Requirements
The primary evidence custodian is appointed in writing.
There are certain
requirements of rank or grade that must be met.
Commissioned officers or
noncommissioned officers (MOS 95B, grade E6 or above) may be designated.
Department of the Army civilian employees, GS-9 or above, may be assigned when
military resources are limited. Installation commanders may appoint NCOs in grade
E5 and DA civilians in grade GS-7 or the equivalent as primary or alternate
custodians. But only if qualified military or civilian personnel are limited.
Evidence Depository Requirements
Evidence is stored in a specially designated area called the evidence room.
The
evidence room is located in the same building as operational or administrative
staffs of the USACIDC unit or provost marshal.
The construction of the evidence room must meet specific standards. The standards
for construction of an evidence room are outlined in AR 195-5. This reference will
be available at your station.
MP2004
2-48
Previous Page
