What should occur if the alleged abuse is recent and evidence could still be present?

When an allegation of abuse is recent and potential evidence is still present, it is crucial to take steps that protect that evidence. Encouraging both parties to avoid actions that could destroy evidence is vital in preserving the integrity of any physical or testimonial evidence related to the abuse.

Preserving evidence can include instructing the victim, suspect, and any witnesses to refrain from altering the scene, tampering with physical evidence, or discussing the incident in ways that might influence testimonies. This allows authorities to gather the most accurate information, which could be pivotal during an investigation or any subsequent legal proceedings.

While all the mentioned actions could contribute to addressing the situation, the preservation of evidence must take precedence to ensure that any investigation can proceed with the best possible information available.