What is an integral part of preserving a crime scene?

Maintaining a record of evidence collection is crucial in preserving a crime scene because proper documentation ensures that all evidence is accounted for, can be traced back to its original context, and can be accurately presented in court. This includes noting the location, condition, and details of each piece of evidence collected, which is essential for establishing a chain of custody. A well-maintained record helps to substantiate the investigation's findings and prevents any potential tampering or disputes regarding the evidence's integrity.

In contrast, handling evidence carelessly compromises its integrity, while ignoring witness accounts could result in missing vital information that could aid the investigation. Interrogating suspects immediately may lead to incomplete interactions that overlook critical details if not properly recorded. Thus, documenting evidence collection stands out as an indispensable part of maintaining the integrity of the investigation and preserving the crime scene.