What is the proper way to handle a weapon or contraband found on a person or in equipment?

• A. Remove the item and place it in a locked box for the attorney to review.
• B. Isolate item, do not touch; secure area, call supervisor, follow chain of custody; preserve evidence.
• C. Notify the media to document the incident.
• D. Ignore it if there is no immediate threat.

Answer: (C)

The key point is safety and preserving evidence by proper chain of custody. When a weapon or contraband is found on a person or in equipment, the correct approach is to isolate the item without touching it, secure the area, and immediately notify a supervisor. Then follow the established chain of custody: document what was found, when and where, who handled it, and ensure the item is preserved and protected from contamination or tampering. This minimizes risk to everyone and creates a solid, traceable record for investigators.

Moving the item for later review, handing it to an attorney on the spot, or involving the media would break the chain of custody and could jeopardize safety and the investigation. Ignoring the find is unsafe and against procedure.