Property & Evidence FAQ

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

Early Warning Intervention System

Property booked in as evidence of a crime is held for 120 days past the date of sentencing for felony cases and 75 days for misdemeanors (if an arrest has been made). The Investigator or District Attorney’s office may authorize the release of property earlier. However, this is on a case-by-case basis and the final decision must be approved by the District Attorney and/or Investigations Supervisor. If no arrest is made, evidence may be held for the statute of limitations or upon approval of the Officer and Investigations Sergeant. The Property & Evidence Unit does not have the authority to release evidence on any open case.

Why must I make an appointment to claim my property?

I have a court order that requires the Livermore Police Department to return my property, why do I still need an appointment?

2022 Uniform Crime Report (UCR) for Part I Crimes

By law, the Livermore 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 Livermore Police Department. The judge then makes a determination whether the property should be returned or remain in police custody.

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

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

Assembly Bill 481 - Military Equipment Funding, Acquisition and Use Policy

Yes. Except for firearms, illegal items, and personal electronic devices 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. If the value of the property is over $250, the finder is responsible for placing a notice in the newspaper regarding the found property. If the item is not claimed by the owner within 7 days of the notice, the finder may claim the property. For additional clarification, please contact the Property & Evidence Unit at 925-371-4940.

Livermore, CA

Early Warning Intervention System

Recruiting and Backgrounds

2022 Uniform Crime Report (UCR) for Part I Crimes

Stop & Arrest Data

Assembly Bill 481 - Military Equipment Funding, Acquisition and Use Policy