This article attempts to call attention to the impending crisis across the country in property and evidence storage.
Lack of sufficient storage space for evidence and property is becoming a common problem for police chiefs. New laws/statutes have created an increase demand in evidence collection and storage with three reasons identified as giving cause to these laws and statutes: advanced DNA technology, renewed focus on previously unsolved crimes, and post-conviction appeals. Dealing with inadequate storage capacity requires a diagnosis of the underlying cause of the problem. It is then imperative that agencies focus on methods of reducing the inventory in their property rooms. Only through planning, as well as adequate budget and administrative support will the law enforcement community be able to address future property room needs. The purpose of this article is to call the attention of police executives to the impending crisis in property and evidence storage. Notes