Sealed evidence refers to evidence that is undisclosed by court order or evidence submitted to a forensic laboratory that is properly sealed to prevent tampering. A proper seal involves securely closing the evidence packaging in a way that would indicate if it was opened, such as using tamper-evident tape, heat seals, or self-sealing containers. All sealed evidence packages should be clearly marked with details like the case number, item description, and identity of the person sealing it. Hazardous materials also require proper labeling.

1. By- Bishakha

2. SEALED EVIDENCE LAW AND
LEGAL DEFINITION
 The term "sealed evidence" can refer to two types of evidence. First, it can
refer to evidence that is undisclosed or sealed by court order. This type of
sealed evidence is not available to the public even though it may be included
in court records.
 Second, all evidence submitted to a forensic laboratory must be placed into a
container that is properly sealed. The definition of a proper seal is a container
of evidence that is secured to prevent access to the contents. If and when
access is made, then the sealing mechanism will be broken. Sealing is done to
prevent tampering. The seals that are usually accepted :
 1. Tape
 2. Heat sealed packages
 3. Packages with tamper proof seals

4. Proper Seal
• A proper seal consists of an appropriate closure of the packaging that will prevent loss or
contamination of the evidence contained within.
• Evidence must be sealed with evidence tape or heat seal or be contained in a self-sealing
evidence container that will indicate if the package is opened. Paper or clear packing and
transparent office tapes are not suitable for use as tamper evident tape. They may, however, be
used to secure and close packages. To be considered tamper evident, the tape must leave some
identification on the package that it has been broken or removed.
• A proper seal for items submitted requiring Trace Evidence analysis or collection consists of a
complete closure that will prohibit the loss or contamination of microscopic evidence. A proper
tape seal must extend across the entire opening of the container.

5. • Tamper-evident evidence tape must have initials across the seal onto the bag/container to be
considered a proper seal.
• Heat seals must have initials across the seal to be considered a proper seal.
• Self-seal containers must have initials across the seal or in a designated location on the
container to be considered a proper seal.

6.  Item number
 Agency case number
 List the offence . Example (Murder)
 Brief description of item. Example(weapon used)
 Source of item/ name of subject or victim
 Location where found
 Date / time of collection
 Name of initial of person collecting item.

8.  It is extremely necessary to seal all containers, envelopes, packets, bags,
bottles, and boxes with appropriate marking to mark containers with hazard
labels.
 Those that contain articles stained with body fluid such as blood, semen,
saliva , etc. should be marked with a biological hazard label and those that
contain items that are dangerous to human life , should be marked with a
chemical hazard label.
 Boxes those that contain like delicate items should be marked “Handle with
Care”.
 All packages should be sealed in such a manner that make quite impossible
to open them keeping seals intact.
 All knots and possible openings should be sealed with legible impressions.
 The seal could be official or individual to mention chain of custody .
 The sample of concerned seal should always be sent with both sealing wax
and stamp pad ink impressions along with the forwarding letter.

10. https://dfs.dc.gov
https://www.crime-scene-invrstigatior.net