What does "inculpatory" evidence do in the context of a legal case?

The term "inculpatory" refers to evidence that serves to show or indicate someone's involvement in a crime, which means that it tends to incriminate a defendant. In a legal context, this type of evidence is significant because it can support the prosecution's case by establishing a defendant's guilt or involvement in the alleged criminal activity.

For example, if a witness testifies that they saw the defendant at the scene of the crime or if forensic evidence ties the defendant to the crime scene, such evidence would be considered inculpatory. It plays a crucial role in shaping the jury's perception of the defendant's guilt or innocence.

The other answer choices either suggest outcomes that do not relate to the role of inculpatory evidence. For instance, proving innocence is the opposite of what inculpatory evidence does, while confirming an alibi or refuting witness claims deals with defense strategies and rebuttals rather than establishing guilt. Hence, the correct choice accurately captures the essence of what inculpatory evidence does in a legal case.