Da Form 4137 – Fill Out and Use This PDF

The DA Form 4137 is the U.S. Army’s official Evidence/Property Custody Document, governed by AR 190-45 and AR 195-5 under the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command. It records each piece of evidence or property from initial receipt through every chain of custody transfer to final disposal. This creates a transparent, auditable record that supports accountability in military investigations. Click the button above to fill it out online for free.

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Da Form 4137 PDF Details

The Evidence/Property Custody Document (DA Form 4137) plays a critical role in tracking the custody and handling of evidentiary items and property within the U.S. Army. Crafted under AR 190-45 and AR 195-5 and governed by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, this form ensures a transparent, accountable process of evidence management. It records the sequence number, report numbers, names, grades, and titles of individuals from whom items are received, alongside descriptions of each article. Key details captured include the item description, quantity, model, serial numbers, condition, and any unique marks or scratches vital for tracking and identification.

The chain of custody section documents names, grades, titles, and signatures at every transfer point, ensuring each item’s movement is logged until final disposal. Whether an item is released to its owner, transferred to another custodian, or destroyed, every step is recorded. This approach to documenting evidence and property safeguards against tampering, loss, or misuse, upholding standards of justice and accountability within military operations.

Question	Answer
Form Name	Da Form 4137
Form Length	2 pages
Fillable?	No
Fillable fields	0
Avg. time to fill out	30 sec
Other names	fillable form 4137, custody da chain form, evidence form, custody da chain

How to Edit Da Form 4137 Online for Free

How to Fill Out DA Form 4137

Completing this form correctly ensures all evidence remains admissible and traceable throughout an investigation. Follow these steps:

Enter the sequence number. Assign a unique tracking number to this documentation package.
Record report numbers. Include all relevant case or investigation report numbers that apply.
Identify the subject. List the name, grade, title, and unit of the person from whom items were received.
Describe each item. Record the description, quantity, model, serial number, condition, and any unique marks. Be specific to prevent confusion during later review.
Sign at each transfer. Every person who handles an item must sign and date the form. This documents the complete chain of custody from initial receipt through final disposition.
Record the final disposition. Mark whether the item is released to the owner, transferred to another custodian, or destroyed. Include the date and an authorizing signature.

Once complete, download your finished form as a PDF or save it as a txt file for digital record-keeping.

Who Needs DA Form 4137

Military police officers, criminal investigators, and unit commanders use this form whenever evidence or property is collected, stored, or transferred during an investigation. The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command requires it for all evidence governed by AR 190-45 and AR 195-5. Related Army documents such as the DA Form 87 follow similar Army standards for official documentation and records management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of DA Form 4137? It creates a legally defensible record of who had custody of each item of evidence at every point in an investigation. This protects both the investigating unit and the subject of any inquiry from disputes over evidence handling.

How long should completed forms be retained? Retention periods depend on the nature of the case and Army records management guidelines. Consult your unit records officer for the specific schedule that applies.

Can I complete this form online? Yes. Use the editor on this page to fill in all required fields digitally, then print or download your completed form. This is especially useful when printed forms are unavailable in the field.