Which of the following can break the chain of custody?

The correct answer is related to the concept of chain of custody, which is critical in legal contexts to ensure that evidence remains untampered and reliable. Improper storage of evidence can indeed break the chain of custody because it can lead to contamination, degradation, or loss of the integrity of the evidence. If evidence is not stored according to proper procedures, it casts doubt on its authenticity and the reliability of any conclusions drawn from it, affecting its admissibility in court.

Maintaining the integrity of evidence is essential, and proper storage means keeping evidence in controlled conditions that prevent damage or tampering. Failing to do so can create opportunities for evidence to be altered or degraded, thereby undermining its value in legal proceedings.

The other options do not pertain to breaking the chain of custody directly. For instance, submitting evidence in digital format can be a valid method as long as it follows protocol, labeling evidence correctly aids in tracking it throughout the process, and handling evidence in front of witnesses is generally a positive practice that can actually help maintain the chain of custody.