LUGGAGE, PURSES AND WALLETS
IMPOUNDING OFFICER PROCEDURES
Always attempt to return luggage, wallets, and purses to the owner if known.
When property is recovered as a result of an incident that will not be investigated as a crime or when property is found, inventory the contents and list them on the property-evidence report. (List with detail, such as 4 blue silk blouses, Conair hair dryer, and 2 pair of Converse tennis shoes. Describe their condition. Whether or not a search warrant is involved, ensure you do not exceed the scope of the search.
Be cautious about any activity that could prevent a search warrant from being issued or otherwise used for prosecution purposes.
If the item contains more than $25 in cash, remove the money and process the money according to “Cash." If it contains less than $25 leave it in the purse or wallet and continue.
Package and seal all purses and wallets.
Complete the evidence tag and attach it to the packaging.
Complete the property-evidence report.
Place the properly packaged item into an evidence locker. Note the location on the property-evidence report.
Place the yellow and green copy of the property-evidence report in the property-evidence basket in the evidence processing room.
EVIDENCE OFFICER PROCEDURES
STORAGE:
If the money amount is over $25, store in the safe.
Place the item in a location most suited to the size of the article’s packaging.
Place the item in the area as specified by the Evidence Room Guide.
Place the item in chronological order by case number.
DISPOSAL:
Upon disposition of the case, request authorization from the investigating officer.
Upon expiration of Statute of Limitations, request authorization from the investigating officer. If held for Safekeeping, no authorization is necessary.
Upon authorization, see ‘General Disposition.'
Revised 11/05/03