What is the preferred method for transporting evidence to the state lab?

Hand delivery is the preferred method for transporting evidence to the state lab because it allows for the direct oversight and accountability of the evidence throughout the transfer process. This method minimizes the risk of contamination or tampering, ensuring that the chain of custody is maintained. By personally delivering the evidence, investigators can also provide any necessary documentation or context relevant to the evidence, which can be crucial for laboratory staff in their analysis.

Other methods of transportation, such as mailing or using a courier service, might introduce delays and potential risks in the handling of the evidence. These methods can also complicate the chain of custody if there's any uncertainty about who handled the evidence during transit. Pick-up by lab personnel may also be viable, but it typically involves waiting for the lab staff to arrive and can be less efficient compared to direct hand delivery. Therefore, hand delivery is seen as the most secure and reliable way to ensure the integrity of the evidence when it reaches the lab.