What is the potential consequence for not following evidence storage protocols?

The correct answer is the loss of evidence integrity, which is crucial in any legal proceedings. When evidence is not stored according to established protocols, it can become contaminated, damaged, or tampered with, undermining its reliability. Evidence integrity is paramount because it ensures that the information presented in court is accurate and trustworthy. If evidence is deemed unreliable, it can lead to wrongful convictions or acquittals, affecting the outcome of cases significantly.

While missed promotional opportunities, increased trial costs, and potential invalidation of the case are possible repercussions of poor evidence handling, none of these directly address the core issue of evidence integrity. Loss of integrity leads to questions about the authenticity and reliability of the evidence itself, which is fundamental to the judicial process. Ensuring proper evidence storage maintains the credibility of the evidence and the integrity of the entire legal system.