California Private Investigator Practice Exam

Which type of evidence destruction is considered a crime?

1. Destroying irrelevant documents

2. Altering receipts

3. Concealing evidence with intent to prevent it from being produced

4. Throwing away old case files

The correct answer is: Concealing evidence with intent to prevent it from being produced

Concealing evidence with the intent to prevent it from being produced is considered a crime because it directly undermines the integrity of the legal process and obstructs justice. When evidence is concealed, it impairs the ability of law enforcement and the courts to conduct a fair and thorough investigation or trial. This act demonstrates a willful intent to interfere with the legal system, which is why it is treated seriously and classified as a crime. In contrast, destroying irrelevant documents or throwing away old case files does not typically constitute a crime, so long as those documents are not connected to an investigation or legal proceeding. Additionally, altering receipts could potentially be considered fraudulent behavior but it is not necessarily classified as evidence destruction in the context of obstructing justice.