NCJ Number
139593
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 59 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1992) Pages: 39,42,44-50
Date Published
1992
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Managing a property room for the storage of evidence is a crucial responsibility that requires greater credit and attention, despite its reputation among police as an unglamorous and undesirable job.
Abstract
Property management is one of the most important jobs in the entire police operation. Increased drug law enforcement, the use of DNA testing, and other developments have greatly complicated the task of logging, tracking, storing, and inventorying evidence in recent years. The two biggest challenges in running a property room are mismanagement and corruption. To oversee the property function effectively, managers must understand the procedures, be aware of the liabilities, and continually look for ways to improve the system. Property rooms are usually overcrowded, so unnecessary items should be discarded. Safeguards include proper packaging, lockers, and security measures. Computer software and other technology are available to automate parts of the property management system. Police agencies should also have clear policies and procedures regarding property room management.