Property Evidence Unit

The South Brunswick Police Department Property & Evidence Unit is responsible for the control, storage, security, and disposal of physical evidence and property collected by its employees. We handle seized property, found property, and abandoned property, as well as evidence of crimes and contraband. The property and evidence is maintained in a vault for a period of time prescribed by law; some evidence is maintained forever.

Found property/abandoned property: Generally, found property will be maintained for six months. If the owner does not recover it within six months, the property will be offered to the finder. If the finder is unknown or doesn’t want the property, the township will auction it off. If it has no value it will be disposed of. In some instances property may be donated to a charity.

Evidence and contraband: Evidence of a crime is anything related to a crime that links the suspect to a crime, a victim, or a crime scene. These items are held until the case is disposed of, including the appeals process. Contraband is anything that is illegal, such as narcotics, paraphernalia, or in some cases weapons. Contraband is always destroyed after a case is completed. Contraband is destroyed by incineration.

Seized property: This is evidence or proceeds of a crime. This is usually turned over to the Middlesex County Property and Evidence Unit, or it may be maintained in South Brunswick until forfeiture proceedings are complete.

To retrieve property: If you wish to retrieve property that is being held by South Brunswick Police please call (732)329-4000 Ext. 7447 for instructions.

Voluntary surrender: A resident of South Brunswick Township may voluntarily surrender any weapon and/or ammunition to the police department. A criminal record check will be performed on the weapon and the person surrendering the weapon. A voluntary surrender disclaimer must be signed. These weapons will be incinerated.

Vehicle impound/seizure: If your vehicle was impounded by the police due to a traffic violation it may be released through the Station Office (732-329-4000 x7456). If it was impounded because it was used in the commission of a crime or was proceeds of a crime, it may be subject to seizure. Check with the Property & Evidence Unit for instructions.