Request return of property seized

If we have seized your property as part of a police investigation, usually there will come a time when we will be able to return it to the owner.

Before we can release your property:

• your case must have been resolved and all relevant matters closed
• the officer in charge of the case must authorise its release
• in some cases, you will have to prove ownership

We reserve the right to retain your property if it is illegal or is needed to support an appeal.

Investigating officers review items of seized property every 60 days. This helps us decide whether items can be returned to their owners, or if they are needed for an ongoing investigation.

Items we can return

• Mobile phones, computers or tablets
• Personal possessions, such as jewellery or clothing
• Bank cards or licences

Items we cannot return

• Drugs
• Knives

Items we cannot return will usually be destroyed.

Items we may not be able to return

For some types of property, the process of returning items may differ:

• Animals: if an animal was seized, the officer in charge of the case will decide if it can be returned. You should contact them to discuss next steps.
• Cash: if we seize cash from you, there are complex rules about returning it. For more information, speak to a solicitor.
• Vehicles: find out more on how to request the return of a vehicle.

Collection

You must collect your seized property from a police station. We cannot return items any other way.

When you come to the police station, make sure you bring:

• ID, such as valid passport or UK driving licence
• proof of ownership, if requested

Make a request

We aim to respond to you in three working days.