Which statement about the values of physical evidence is correct?

Which statement about the values of physical evidence is correct?

• A. Cannot prove a crime.
• B. Can prove a crime was committed.
• C. Cannot corroborate testimony.
• D. Cannot exonerate innocent people.

Answer: (B)

Physical evidence provides objective facts from the scene that can establish that a crime occurred. For example, a weapon with DNA, footprints at the scene, or video showing the act all demonstrate that unlawful activity took place. This helps prove that a crime happened and supports reconstructing the sequence of events, often alongside linking a suspect or corroborating testimony. While it can also exonerate innocent people when the evidence points away from them, its fundamental value is showing that a crime was committed.

Physical evidence provides objective facts from the scene that can establish that a crime occurred. For example, a weapon with DNA, footprints at the scene, or video showing the act all demonstrate that unlawful activity took place. This helps prove that a crime happened and supports reconstructing the sequence of events, often alongside linking a suspect or corroborating testimony. While it can also exonerate innocent people when the evidence points away from them, its fundamental value is showing that a crime was committed.