Show All Answers

1. If I find a bicycle and turn it in can I later claim it?

No. Per Welfare and Institutions Code 217 we are required to turn over all unclaimed bicycles to Social Services or local non-profit organizations.

2. If I find and turn in any other property (i.e. money, jewelry, etc.), may I later claim it?

Yes, except for firearms and illegal items, any other property turned in as found property may be returned to the finder. There is a 90-, day waiting period during which the owner may claim lost property. After 90 days has passed, the reporting party (finder) may claim the property.

3. Why must I make an appointment to claim my property?

Appointments are scheduled so that a property technician can be made available to handle your case. The property technicians may be in court, transporting evidence to the Department of Justice Forensics Laboratory or may be viewing evidence with an attorney.

4. I have a court order that requires Santa Rosa Police Department to return my property, why do I still need an appointment?

By law, the Santa Rosa Police Department is allowed 10 days to return property upon receipt of a court order. This allows the investigating officer to be notified of the order and to determine if the property is still needed for the investigation. If so, the investigator may contact the court and notify a judge why the property should remain in the custody of the Santa Rosa Police Department. The judge then makes a determination whether the property should be returned or remain in police custody.

5. Why does it take so long for me to get my property back?

Property booked in as evidence of a crime is held for 90 days past the date of sentencing or dismissal. If no charges are filed, property is held until the statute of limitations has expired (3 years for most felony cases, 1 year for misdemeanor cases) or the investigator of the case authorizes the release of the property, whichever is sooner.

6. How do I get my firearm(s) back?

The first step is to contact the Property and Evidence Team in order to determine if the firearm is releasable. If the firearm is releasable, the Property and Evidence Team will send you a letter detailing the process.

The process includes obtaining clearance through Department of Justice and registering the firearm. All firearms must be registered before they are released. You can complete the forms required by Department of Justice by contacting them. Once you obtain clearance and the firearm is registered, you must provide the Property and Evidence Team copies of the DOJ documents and call 707-543-3618 to set up an appointment for the release.

State of California Department of Justice page.