Why is it important not to disturb a clue when found?

Maintaining the chain of evidence is crucial in search and rescue operations, as well as in any investigative work. When a clue is found, it becomes part of the physical evidence that could be critical in understanding what has happened in a situation. Disturbing a clue can compromise its integrity, making it difficult or impossible to establish a reliable connection to the case at hand. By preserving the location and condition of the clue, investigators can document its relevance, ensure that it can be properly analyzed, and uphold the overall integrity of the investigative process. This chain of evidence is essential, particularly in legal contexts, where it must be demonstrated that the evidence has not been tampered with or altered in any way.