Crime Evidence Question

Stirling

Does anyone know what happens to evidence after the trial? Is it destroyed or stored somewhere. Just asking because I need my character to go through the evidence to make a new discovery on a cold 'solved' case.

Thanks.

Piper

Well, I am under the impression because of the amount of murder programmes I watch, they store it in case it needs to be reopened and stuff. I don't think it's destroyed.

Then again, I dunno how true these programmes are to the truth.

Carol

Interesting question.

Red

I've had to research this, plus brother in law is a copper. Evidence has to be kept ( in case of retrials etc)

Phots Moll

Evidence must be stored as some people have been released years after imprisonment because new DNA techniques etc have proved them innocent. I suppose it's held for appeals?

Stirling

Thanks.

Red, do you know where (and how?) it is stored and how long it takes to retrieve it?

Red

Not off hand, but I can ask brother in law when I next see him. He can ask the necessary people. Might take a about week to get it.

Stirling

That would be great!

No hurry, I have two essays due on Monday and a Scottish History exam on Wednesday. Novel firmly on the back burner until Wednesday!

Red

No probs, I'll see what I can find out for you.

Stan2

^

Jan

It may be a different policy for the various types of crime.

From personal experience, in south-west England, I can affirm that:

a) Break-ins with violence and theft - items are returned to their owner once criminal proceedings are completed.

b) Assault and robbery - possessions are returned to owners if requested or destroyed once court processes have been finalised.

c) Stolen goods that have been retrieved are stored for a maximum of twelve months before being offered for sale.

Storage space is limited and the various police forces have policies for keeping and relinguishing property.

Stirling

What about something like CCTV footage?

Piper

Did anyone ever find out?