Can evidence collected during an investigation become outdated?

The correct choice stands out because evidence can indeed become outdated due to changes in circumstances, technology, or the context surrounding a case. An investigation can evolve over time as new information surfaces, legal standards shift, or as societal norms change, rendering previously collected evidence less relevant or even obsolete. For instance, advancements in forensic technology can lead to new ways of analyzing evidence that may contradict or overshadow earlier findings. Additionally, information pertinent to a case can change, such as the status of witnesses or the emergence of new suspects, which impacts the relevance of evidence collected earlier in the investigation. Effective investigators must always assess the current relevance and applicability of their evidence in light of any changes that may occur.