What does the "120 hour rule" typically refer to in law enforcement?

The "120 hour rule" in law enforcement refers to a specific time frame for collecting evidence, particularly in cases involving missing persons or certain types of investigations. This rule emphasizes the importance of gathering evidence as quickly and thoroughly as possible within the first 120 hours after an incident occurs. This time frame is critical because the probability of obtaining reliable information and physical evidence tends to diminish as time passes, affecting the investigation's effectiveness and potential success.

Gathering evidence promptly can include various actions such as securing crime scenes, collecting physical evidence, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining statements from involved parties, which are all essential to building a strong case. The focus on the initial hours after an incident underscores the need for diligence and urgency among law enforcement professionals.