What are the rules on evidence-gathering in criminal cases?

In Indiana, there are certain rules that must be followed when gathering evidence in criminal cases. Generally, the police must have a valid reason to collect evidence from a person or from a location, and this must be done within the parameters of constitutional laws and the state’s legal code. The most common way that the police can collect evidence for a criminal case is with a search warrant. A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that allows officers to search a specific location or person for items related to the criminal activity being investigated. Before a warrant is issued, the police must provide the judge with evidence that shows that a crime has been committed, or that there is probable cause that a crime has been committed. The police can also collect evidence without a warrant in certain circumstances. For example, if they witness a criminal act, they can collect evidence related to that crime without a warrant. Evidence that was collected in plain view, such as items that are visible in a public area, can also be collected without a warrant. Finally, the police can collect evidence with the consent of the person whose property is being searched. Before the police can collect evidence, they must obtain permission from the person or provide them with a document that explains their right to refuse the search. In all cases, the evidence that is collected must be handled in accordance with the rules and regulations outlined in the state’s codes. Police officers must also follow certain procedures when securing and preserving the evidence for use in court.

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