# Evidence Chain Analysis — Chain of Custody

**State v. Matthew James McAchran (26CR302000-330)**

## Overview

Analysis of the evidence chain for the seized "black box" containing 371.28g of cannabis. The chain of custody is critical for both suppression and §1983 claims.

## Seized Property

### The Black Box
- **Description**: Locked container seized from master bedroom closet
- **Location**: 417 Charles Conner Dr, Kernersville
- **Date**: April 15, 2026 (warrant execution)
- **Contents**: 371.28g cannabis (illegal under NC law)
- **Status**: Ordered destroyed, not sold

## Chain of Custody Issues

### 1. Scope Violation
- **Warrant**: Living room only
- **Seizure**: Master bedroom closet
- **Impact**: Evidence obtained in violation of warrant scope

### 2. No Bodycam Footage
- **Issue**: 76+ days without bodycam release
- **Evidence**: KPD stated 30-day retention
- **Impact**: Cannot verify handling, processing, or destruction

### 3. Destruction Order
- **Status**: Property ordered destroyed
- **Source**: Court order (need to verify)
- **Impact**: No sale = no revenue, contradicts budget

## Legal Significance

### Fourth Amendment
- **Scope Violation**: *Groh v. Ramirez*, 542 U.S. 194 (2004)
- **Chadwick**: Locked container in private home
- **Suppression**: All evidence fruit of illegal search

### §1983 Claims
- **Property Deprivation**: 14th Amendment
- **Due Process**: Right to property hearing
- **False Accounting**: Budget vs. reality discrepancy

## Discovery Requests

1. **Chain of Custody**: All logs for seized property
2. **Destruction Order**: Court order for destruction
3. **Inventory**: Complete inventory with photos
4. **Storage**: Where property held before destruction

## Source Documents

- [Motion to Suppress](04-motion-to-suppress.md)
- [Budget Discrepancy](28-budget-seizure-discrepancy.md)
- [Civil Suit Analysis](05-civil-suit-analysis.md)