Physical Destruction of Paper Records

A subject deliberately destroys or materially damages paper records to prevent or hinder their examination or their use in establishing relevant events. The records may include original organizational documents, printed copies, handwritten notes, notebooks, correspondence, or paper-based transaction records. The subject may perform the destruction directly or arrange for another person or service to carry it out, including by introducing relevant records into an otherwise legitimate disposal process.

The behavior includes destruction of complete records or selected portions containing relevant information. It may occur before an investigation begins or after the subject becomes aware of scrutiny. Complete destruction or successful prevention of recovery is not required. Classification requires evidence that the destruction was intended to conceal relevant activity or frustrate investigation; routine authorized disposal, accidental damage, or an unexplained missing record does not independently establish the behavior.