Property items taken from crime scenes during a call for service or criminal investigation are stored in the Property & Evidence Section of the Holly Hill Police Department. One element for a successful prosecution depends on how the evidence is handled and preserved. If evidence is not properly packaged and documented at the time a police officer collects it at a crime scene, or if the property is not stored properly or the “chain of custody” is compromised, criminals may go free, putting our community and its citizens at risk.
When a case is over and the property is no longer needed, every attempt is made to return items to the rightful owner. If the owner can’t be found, the property is disposed of according to law or through safe destruction. Items of drug evidence are routinely incinerated at a special processing facility, and weapons and firearms which are considered contraband under federal or state law, or are deemed unsafe, are shredded using special metal working equipment. Evidence or property may be picked up at the Police Department with the proper release from the Office of the State Attorney or investigating officer. You may call to find out the status of your property.
Some items are stored off-site and appointments are necessary to pick up property. When claiming property a current, government-issued, picture identification and case number involving the items you wish to claim are required. If somebody is picking up property for you, you must provide a notarized letter naming the individual you are authorizing to claim the property. You may also make an appointment to view abandoned bicycles received by the Evidence Section. To make an appointment or for additional information, please contact the Evidence & Property Section at (386) 248-9415 or by e-mail at lamara [at] hollyhillfl.org (lamara)@hollyhillfl.org.