A security worker, upon discovering an individual attempting to break into a commercial warehouse, apprehends the suspect. During the apprehension, the security worker seizes a pry bar dropped by the suspect. To comply with Criminal Code procedures for evidence handling, what is the most appropriate immediate action for the security worker regarding the seized pry bar?

Question: A security worker, upon discovering an individual attempting to break into a commercial warehouse, apprehends the suspect. During the apprehension, the security worker seizes a pry bar dropped by the suspect. To comply with Criminal Code procedures for evidence handling, what is the most appropriate immediate action for the security worker regarding the seized pry bar?

Answer options: ✅ Place the pry bar in a secure location and wait for police to collect it, documenting its location.

• Attempt to obtain fingerprints from the pry bar immediately before police arrive.
• Hand the pry bar directly to the warehouse owner for safekeeping until police arrive.
• Store the pry bar in their personal vehicle to transport it to the police station later.

Correct answer: Place the pry bar in a secure location and wait for police to collect it, documenting its location.

Explanation: When evidence is seized during a lawful apprehension, it must be preserved and handled in a manner that maintains its integrity for potential legal proceedings. The most appropriate action is to secure the item, ensuring its chain of custody is maintained, and then turn it over to the police, who have the primary responsibility for forensic investigation and evidence handling. Section 489 of the Criminal Code outlines the duties of persons seizing property.