What are the possible consequences for justice when crucial evidence like audio clips is not sent for forensic analysis in violence cases?

In cases of violence, evidence such as audio clips can play a vital role in establishing facts and identifying culprits. Forensic analysis of such evidence ensures its authenticity and credibility in a court of law. When crucial evidence like audio clips is not sent for forensic analysis, it can have several negative consequences for the justice process:

• Questionable Authenticity: Without forensic verification, the genuineness of the audio clip can be challenged. This may allow accused persons to claim tampering or fabrication.
• Weakening of Prosecution’s Case: Unverified evidence may be deemed inadmissible or unreliable in court, weakening the prosecution’s arguments and reducing the chances of conviction.
• Denial of Fair Trial: Both the accused and the victims have the right to a fair trial. Incomplete or unverified evidence can lead to miscarriage of justice, either by wrongfully convicting someone or letting the guilty go free.
• Delay in Justice: If the court later orders forensic analysis, it can cause significant delays in the investigation and trial process, prolonging the suffering of victims and accused alike.
• Loss of Public Trust: Public confidence in the justice system may erode if it appears that investigations are not thorough or evidence is mishandled.
• Opportunities for Manipulation: Lack of forensic checks may allow interested parties to manipulate, edit, or misinterpret the evidence, leading to biased or incorrect conclusions.
• Violation of Legal Procedures: Not following standard procedures for evidence analysis can be seen as negligence on the part of investigating agencies, which can be questioned by higher courts.