What is a common consequence of not following proper evidence preservation techniques?

The common consequence of not following proper evidence preservation techniques is the loss of evidence integrity. When evidence is not handled or stored correctly, it can become contaminated, altered, or degraded, compromising its reliability in a legal context. This lack of integrity can lead to a situation where the evidence is no longer valid or credible, making it difficult or impossible to use in court. Maintaining the integrity of evidence is absolutely critical to ensuring that it can accurately reflect the facts of a case.

On the other hand, the other options fail to accurately reflect the repercussions of poor evidence preservation. For instance, while successful convictions typically rely on the strength and reliability of evidence, improper handling can lead to overturned convictions due to unreliable evidence. Improvements in crime scene analysis require the utmost care and adherence to protocols rather than disregard for them, and cooperation among law enforcement agencies tends to be enhanced when evidence procedures are followed correctly, rather than when they are neglected.