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The Evidence and Property Section is the department's central repository for all items found or confiscated by city police officers.  The section is staffed by two full-time civilian personnel.

When officers collect evidence associated with any investigation, they thoroughly document the item's description and carefully package it for storage.  The item is then transferred to the control of Evidence and Property Section where it is cataloged and linked to other items that may be a part of the investigation.  The item is then assigned a specific coded storage location for easy retrieval.  Evidence that requires additional analysis is then transferred to the appropriate laboratory.  

Most items are maintained for a minimum of five years; however, items that have no evidentiary value, and can not be linked to an owner, are eventually sold at auction.   All recovered bicycles are sold through local auctioneers. These semi-annual sales are announced in local newspapers.   Other recovered items, such as electronics, tools, jewelry, etc. are sold via an on-line auction service.  This service permits interested persons to browse and view the property from the comfort of their home, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  For more information click here Ø AUCTION INFO

 The proceeds of all auction-sales are mandated by law to the Police Pension Fund.  

Whenever possible, the Fort Wayne Police Department tries to return all recovered property to its proper owner.  One factor that often prevents the timely return is when owners fail to properly record the brand-name, model number, and serial number of their property.   Without these unique identifiers, the property may not be returned.  Although your SONY television may be unique to you, the reality is that SONY may have manufactured thousands of that particular model. The department can't release an item to you just because it looks like your stolen merchandise.  You must be able to to convincingly demonstrate or prove that it's your property.  Take the time to document your possessions.  Record the brand name, model number, and serial number.  Photograph any unique items that may not have a serial number.