Which steps are recommended for collecting and preserving evidence in a PREA incident?

• A. Secure all physical items, preserve digital evidence, interview witnesses promptly, and maintain an evidence custody log
• B. Alter or destroy evidence to protect privacy
• C. Collect only digital evidence; ignore physical items
• D. Delay witness interviews to avoid escalating tension

Answer: (A)

Collecting and preserving evidence in PREA incidents hinges on protecting the evidence from tampering and ensuring traceability. The best approach is to secure all physical items involved, preserve digital evidence such as surveillance video and electronic logs, interview witnesses promptly to capture accurate recollections before details fade, and maintain an evidence custody log that records every transfer and handling of items. This combination protects the evidentiary value and supports a thorough investigation and any subsequent proceedings. Altering or destroying evidence breaks trust and undermines accountability; collecting only digital evidence ignores potentially critical physical traces; delaying witness interviews reduces the reliability of statements.