As with all evidence, the storage and processing of narcotics is something that every property and evidence officer has to deal with. In today's world we have to be extra careful in the storing, handling and auditing of seized narcotics. The seizure of narcotics has increased in proportion to the seriousness of the drug problem in the United States and, with the back log of drug cases in the courts, law enforcement have the added responsibility of retaining seized narcotics for longer periods of time. 

The seizure of narcotics can made by personnel from the patrol division up to the Criminal Investigation Sections of all departments. Patrol units most generally deal with the smaller seizures found during an arrest for other crimes. This could pose a nightmare for the evidence/property officer in it's storage. Smaller items have a tendency to make it to the back of the vault under larger items. On the other hand, Drug Task Forces usually seize larger amounts of narcotics/drugs and the bulk alone could be a storage nightmare. 

Our Chief has given us the authority*, when needed, to repackage drugs that come into the property / evidence room. Most narcotics seized by our department are usually in pi II form and can be stored under normal room (safe) conditions. Field officers who seize small amounts of narcotics, will place it in a film canister or small baggie, along with the container or package (if any) in which it was found. The items are then placed in a standardized size packaging that does not alter the evidence, just makes it more convenient to store. 

With the seizure of liquid narcotics or certain type drugs that needs to be refrigerated, we give it the same type of extra security. By placing narcotics in a vault or safe at room temperature within the property room, the added security is already there. With refrigeration, departments on smaller budgets must improvise. Small metal keyed lock boxes can be utilized which will fit in our refrigeration system. This may not seem as safe as a combination safe or vault but it does almost as well. We still have the protection of our property/ evidence room, which is sufficient for all seized items along with the added touch of the lock boxes. 

During the processing of seized drugs a checks and balance system is essential. All drugs are photographed and recounted by another officer, preferably a supervisor. The evidence is sealed into the package and submitted to the temporary holding area. In our agency, the property/evidence officer confirms all the documentation at hand matches the packaging logged in. Further checks and balances in our property/ evidence room are built in with written departmental policy on audits from time of seizure until time of disposal. 

With our packaging process, we have utilized through trial and error how to package and what to use. We also confer with our prosecuting attorney for input on how the presentation of seized drugs for trial should be made. In the past local grocery stores have donated paper bags and shoe stores have donated shoe boxes for our departments use. Simple freezer bags have also been utilized in the past for use in packaging. 

With today's many police vendors, we have purchased security sealed bags of all sizes and shapes. Sharps containers can be purchased to help store syringes that have evidence still inside. Packaging items have our departments logo imprinted on them which gives our evidence a more professional look when brought to court. Neatness in packaging and presentation of evidence to a jury makes a major impression and could swing the decision in the favor of the prosecution. 

Most every department has a written policy on the handling of all seized drugs. If not, they should seriously look into developing one for their own protection. Even with the development and implementation of an evidence and property policy, a yearly review by the departments management should be made to ensure the yearly growth and changes are within the current policy boundaries. If changes need to be made, management should respond immediately to meet the needs of the property unit and the department. 

* Repackaging of narcotics or other items should only occur with the express authority of the Chief, Sheriff, or DPS Director or with the command approval of the individual designated by the Chief, Sheriff or Director to authorize such action.