Evidence Handling Policy

Last updated: August 14, 2025

Purpose. Our goal is to maximize truth and minimize harm. This policy explains how DriveAwareness.org Inc ("DriveAwareness") receives, verifies, redacts, stores, and publishes evidence submitted by the public.

1) Intake

  • Prefer original files (photos/videos/docs, not screenshots of screenshots).
  • Submit via /community/report or by email at info@driveawareness.org.
  • Provide minimal context: who/what/when/where; your relationship to the event.
  • Remove obviously extraneous personal data where feasible.

2) Verification

  • Compute a content hash (e.g., SHA‑256) at intake and preserve the original.
  • Review EXIF/metadata, headers, message IDs, and timestamps.
  • Cross‑check with corroborating sources (public records, ad libraries, server logs).
  • Label allegations vs verified facts; maintain a change log of updates.

3) Redaction & minimization

  • Redact or blur sensitive personal data not essential to public interest.
  • Use pseudonyms where appropriate; keep a private key linking pseudonyms to identities.
  • Retain only what is necessary to support published claims and timelines.

4) Storage & retention

  • Store originals in access‑controlled buckets with audit logging.
  • Retain verification notes and chain‑of‑custody records internally.
  • Publish derivative copies suitable for public viewing (with redactions/watermarks as needed).
  • Review retention periodically; archive de‑identified materials for research/audit.

5) Chain‑of‑custody

  • Log each handler, step, and timestamp from intake → publication.
  • Preserve original filenames and hashes; record transformations (e.g., redaction, format changes).

6) Publication & labeling

  • Clearly label exhibits, timelines, and editor’s notes.
  • Distinguish primary sources (originals) from secondary materials (transcripts, summaries).
  • Time‑stamp updates and corrections.

7) Requests & disputes

  • Corrections / right‑of‑reply: see /legal/corrections.
  • Copyright claims: see /legal/dmca.
  • Privacy / redaction requests: email info@driveawareness.org with URLs, specific concerns, and suggested minimization.

8) Contact

DriveAwareness.org Inc
info@driveawareness.org
DriveAwareness.org
50 W Broadway Ste 333 PMB 368803
Salt Lake City, Utah 84101-2027 US

See also: Submissions License · Privacy · Corrections