Which principle states that physical evidence can transfer between a person and an object during contact?

The principle that states that physical evidence can transfer between a person and an object during contact is known as Locard's Principle of Exchange. This fundamental concept in forensic science emphasizes that whenever two objects come into contact, there is an exchange of material between them. This means that a perpetrator can leave behind trace evidence at a crime scene and may also take away evidence from the scene when they come into contact with it.

Locard’s Principle underlines the investigative process, as it guides forensic experts in searching for and analyzing evidence to connect individuals to a crime scene or to the crime itself. The ability to establish these connections through evidence exchange is crucial for solving crimes and building cases in court.

The other options relate to different aspects of crime scene investigation rather than the specific principle of evidence transfer. For example, triangulation is a method used for mapping crime scenes, securing the scene refers to taking measures to preserve the integrity of the crime scene, and the crime scene investigation team comprises the professionals responsible for processing the crime scene.