"POLICE LINE" Tape (Police Barricade Tape)

Circa Early 1970's to Early 2000's

A high-visibility, non-adhesive barricade tape employed by Law Enforcement to cordon off crime scenes, or areas under active investigation—to preserve evidence integrity and prevent contamination.

Era of Use:

• Invention (1962): The tape was invented by HARRIS INDUSTRIES, a California-based company.

• Mass Adoption (1970s–1980s): It became a standard law enforcement tool during this period as cheap, durable plastics (polyethylene) became widely available for mass production.

Historical Significance:

• Forensic Revolution: The tape’s introduction was crucial for the emerging field of forensic science. By providing an inexpensive, easily deployable physical and psychological barrier, it allowed officers to instantly protect the integrity of a crime scene and prevent the contamination of fragile evidence like fingerprints or DNA.

• Legal Perimeter: Historically, the deployment of this tape establishes a clear legal boundary. Crossing it without authorization can lead to charges such as obstructing justice or tampering with evidence, which is vital for maintaining the chain of custody during court proceedings.

• Cultural Iconography: Over decades of use in real-world investigations and frequent appearances in crime dramas and news media, the yellow tape has become a universal symbol for "danger," "mystery," or "restricted access".

NOTE: Not provided as an expendable—intended for set decoration purposes only.