St. George Police Department

Evidence Manual Updated 08.25.16

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Contents GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................................................................. 4

EVIDENCE RECOVERY: ............................................................................................................................... 4

GENERAL EVIDENCE PACKAGING AND LABELING: .................................................................................... 6

EVIDENCE LOCKERS: .................................................................................................................................. 7

EVIDENCE SHEETS: .................................................................................................................................... 8

SPILLMAN EVIDENCE MODULE: .............................................................................................................. 11

Attachment-A: ..................................................................................................................................... 13

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR EVIDENCE: ................................................................................................. 15

COMPUTERS AND DIGITAL EVIDENCE ......................................................................................................... 15

SEIZING COMPUTERS AND RELATED EVIDENCE ..................................................................................... 15

COMPUTER/DIGITAL EVIDENCE PACKAGING: ......................................................................................... 16

PHOTOGRAPHS AND DIGITAL FILES: ....................................................................................................... 16

EVIDENCE PACKAGING ................................................................................................................................ 17

ALCOHOL/TOBACCO: .............................................................................................................................. 17

BICYCLES: ................................................................................................................................................. 18

BLOOD/URINE/BODY FLUIDS: ................................................................................................................. 19

Body Fluids on Objects: ....................................................................................................................... 20

Blood Draw Kits: .................................................................................................................................. 20

Code-R Kits: ......................................................................................................................................... 24

CDs/DVDs ................................................................................................................................................ 26

CHEMICALS/FLAMMABLE ITEMS: ........................................................................................................... 26

CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS: ............................................................................................................................. 27

DRUGS: .................................................................................................................................................... 27

Drugs/Paraphernalia: .......................................................................................................................... 27

Pills/Capsules/Tablets: ........................................................................................................................ 28

Glass Pipes/Bongs ............................................................................................................................... 28

Prescription Drugs as Safe-Keep/Found Property .............................................................................. 28

DUI EVIDENCE: ........................................................................................................................................ 29

FIREARMS/AMMUNITION: ...................................................................................................................... 29

General: ............................................................................................................................................... 29

Firearms as evidence: ......................................................................................................................... 29

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Firearms with no evidentiary value: ................................................................................................... 30

Firearms that cannot be rendered safe: ............................................................................................. 31

Evidence Sheet/Evidence Module for Firearms: ................................................................................. 32

Ammunition and Magazines ............................................................................................................... 32

Firearm Holsters/Cases: ...................................................................................................................... 33

FIREWORKS/EXPLOSIVES: ....................................................................................................................... 33

FRAGILE ITEMS: ....................................................................................................................................... 34

IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS: ............................................................................................................... 34

LARGE/LONG ITEMS: ............................................................................................................................... 34

Large Items of Value: .......................................................................................................................... 35

MONEY: ................................................................................................................................................... 36

PERISHABLES: .......................................................................................................................................... 38

Perishable Item Used as Paraphernalia: ............................................................................................. 38

SAFE KEEP/FOUND PROPERTY ................................................................................................................ 39

Paraphernalia with no Evidentiary Value: .......................................................................................... 39

Transient Safe Keep Property: ............................................................................................................ 39

SHARP ITEMS: ......................................................................................................................................... 40

TASER CARTRIDGES (FIRED): ................................................................................................................... 40

RELEASING OF EVIDENCE OR PROPERTY .................................................................................................... 42

EVIDENCE RELEASED TO OFFICER FOR COURT: ...................................................................................... 42

EVIDENCE RELEASED TO OWNER: ........................................................................................................... 43

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GENERAL INFORMATION

EVIDENCE RECOVERY: Evidence collection at the crime scene should be based on the officer’s training, experience, and common sense. Be aware that if evidence is not documented, handled, or collected properly, it may result in the item(s) being inadmissible as evidence in court or the entire case being dismissed.

General Guidelines:

• Photograph the evidence item prior to collecting it, then take further, more detailed photographs after moving it from its original location.

• Package all evidence items separately at the scene to avoid cross contamination. • Do not place ungloved fingers/hands inside of sterile evidence packaging – you may

inadvertently transfer your DNA to the evidence item. • Use gloves when collecting evidence to avoid exposure to you and contamination of the

evidence item. • Use only SGPD approved packaging items.

o Items are available in the cabinets next to the Quartermaster/supply room.

Available packaging:

• Large and small manila envelopes • Sharps containers • Gallon and sandwich sized baggies • Large and small paper bags • Zip ties • String-tags • Blood draw kits

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• Large boxes/gun boxes (Please note that the gun boxes are expensive and, therefore, are to remain at the supply cabinet and not placed into the officer’s own personal evidence supply.)

Evidence items should be booked into the evidence room as soon as possible and MUST be booked before the officer goes off-duty unless approval from a supervisor is obtained. Until the item is booked into evidence, ensure the evidence item remains in your possession or locked in your patrol vehicle. This will ensure the integrity of the evidence item and mitigate issues in the “chain-of-custody” .

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GENERAL EVIDENCE PACKAGING AND LABELING: Evidence must be packaged and labeled in the following manner:

1. All damp/wet items must be placed in a paper bag to avoid mold growth and/or rot. Dry items can be placed into plastic or paper bags depending on the size of the evidence item. Plastic bags allow for the evidence item to be viewed without breaking the seal.

2. All evidence items are to be labeled with the white evidence label. Fill in all information lines on the label before submitting the item into evidence.

a. For plastic baggies, manila envelopes, blank boxes, and paper bags, place the label in the lower left corner of the baggie/package.

b. For large items that do not fit in an evidence package, use an evidence tag and place the label on the tag.

c. For sharps containers, place the label length-wise along the tube. d. For gun boxes pre-marked with the necessary information lines, a white evidence label

is not needed.

NOTE: Drug evidence packaging requires additional procedures. Refer to the drug evidence section for further information.

3. Evidence Items are then placed together (when practical) into a larger “storage package” which include the manila envelopes, paper bags, or an approved box if necessary. Do not write on the storage package*

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EVIDENCE LOCKERS:

1. The storage package is to be placed into the evidence locker with the evidence sheet paper-clipped to the package.

2. The evidence locker is locked with the key provided for that specific locker and the key is then placed into the hole at the top of the same locker.

3. DO NOT take the key from the locker or use the locker for temporary evidence storage. 4. DO use common sense in placing small items in small lockers, saving the larger lockers for larger

items.

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EVIDENCE SHEETS: The digital evidence sheet can be found on the ENET webpage under the “Forms” tab. The digital version is preferred to the hand-written; However, in certain circumstances, a hand-written form may be necessary. If using a hand-written form, please write carefully and legibly.

• Evidence sheets must have the same wording in the description as the “comments” section of the Spillman Evidence Module.

• Only SGPD evidence sheets will be accepted with the evidence item(s). • Remember to sign the evidence sheet on the “Evidence Recovered By” line. • Victim, property owner, suspect, and/or person (s) arrested must be documented on the

evidence sheet. o If there are multiple suspects or people arrested, list all of them on each evidence

sheet.

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• Property returned to the owner must be documented on an evidence sheet as if it were being placed into evidence, but include that the item was released to the owner in the description and do not mark any of the evidence/safe keep/found property boxes. The officer then signs/dates the bottom of the sheet under “Released by” and the owner signs/dates under “Received by”. The signed “property receipt” is then filed as a regular attachment with the report. An unsigned PDF is not necessary.

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The following items must be packaged and listed on a separate evidence sheet from all other items associated with the incident:

• Alcohol • Drugs • “Over-the-counter” or non-prescription medications (vitamins DO NOT need to be listed

separately) • Evidence destroyed on scene (opened alcohol, tobacco, etc.) • Money • Firearms • Ammunition (if separate from the firearm) • Fireworks, road flares, combustibles (these are to be stored at the animal shelter) • Toxic/corrosive chemicals (these are to be stored at the animal shelter) • Code-R Kits • Body fluids or items contaminated with body fluids • Blood draw/urine sample kits • Large/long items over 10 inches (baseball bats, golf clubs, etc.) • All other items that will be placed into a location or locker separate from the other evidence

items (i.e. a bicycle taken to the animal shelter and a backpack logged in as safe keep property). • Safe Keep property (Owner is aware we have, and are storing their property) • Found property (Owner does not know we have their property) • It is also good practice (especially in larger incidents) to separate items that were located in

different areas of the crime scene (i.e. separate rooms, separate bags inside a room, vehicle and residence, etc.)

Aside from the evidence sheet attached to the evidence item(s), a digital copy is to be entered into the “Files” tab in the Spillman report module.

1. Open the “Print” menu for the digital copy of the evidence sheet 2. Select “Primo PDF” as the “printer” from the drop-down menu 3. Create and name the PDF file, following all prompts as necessary 4. Open the File menu in the Spillman incident screen and select “Browse” 5. Locate the evidence sheet file, select it, and then select “import selected”

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SPILLMAN EVIDENCE MODULE: The following information, as shown in the image below, must be entered into the evidence module:

A. Agency B. Evidence type (selected from drop-down menu) C. Incident number D. Status – This will be either EIS (evidence in storage) SKP (safe-keep property), or FPS (found

property stored). E. Related property – if there is a Spillman “Property Table” screen associated with the item, the

property ID number can be entered here. F. Evidence descriptors – the evidence item is selected from the options provided in the drop-

down menu in the “Evid-Item” box. Brand and model can be written into their respective boxes. The color of the item is also selected from a drop-down menu.

G. Quantity of items. If the item is measured by weight or volume and that measurement is known, indicate the type of measurement (ounces, fluid ounces, grams, etc.) in the “Measure” drop-down menu.

H. Serial number if one is available

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I. Related Vehicle information if the item was taken from, or associated with a vehicle. J. Owner information, if owner is known. This can be obtained by entering the owner’s Spillman

Name Number or by selecting the box and pushing “F2” to obtain the name screen table to locate the individual.

K. Local ID – This box is only filled in with “EIN” (evidence item number) and the number of the evidence item (CL-1, CL-2, etc.).

L. Description – This includes the evidence item number and a brief description of the item (i.e. “CL-4 Backpack, CL-9 Glass pipe w/ residue, etc.).

M. Comments – The more in-depth description given on the evidence sheet goes in this box. The description on the evidence sheet must be exactly the same as the one in the ”Comments” box in the Spillman evidence screen.

N. Transaction – This is filled in with the same EIS, SKP, or FPS as the Status box. O. Who From/To – Enter your “P-number” or name into this box. The custodian box is auto-

populated with your name when the evidence module screen is created. P. Location – This will be filled in either with “P LOCKER” or “P POUND” depending on if the item

was placed into an evidence locker or if it was secured at the Animal Shelter. Q. Reason – This box can be filled with further description of the item if necessary, otherwise use

“EIS”, “SKP”, or “FPS” as appropriate.

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Attachment-A: When logging bags, purses, etc. into evidence as Safe Keep or Found property, the items contained in the bag should be itemized (or listed) in the “Comments” section of the evidence screen as opposed to listing every object as a different evidence item.

1. On the Evidence Sheet, list the initial item (backpack, purse, etc.) as you normally would, then add a clause similar to “containing the items listed in Attachment A:”

Example: Black Jansport backpack containing items listed in Attachment A.

2. Create a Spillman Evidence screen for the initial item and list the contents.

3. When the evidence screen is complete, select “File” then “Print” from the main evidence record screen.

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4. Select “Current screens & Associations” from the print menu.

5. When asked if you want to “Print involvement detail also”, select “No”.

This will print the information from the Spillman evidence screen as well as the description entered into the “Comments” section regarding Attachment A.

6. Follow the same directions to create a PDF form of the Attachment A to enter into the “Files” folder of the Spillman Law Screen. This is in addition to the PDF copy of the Evidence Sheet you will be submitting.

7. Attach the printed copy of the “Attachment A” to the printed Evidence Sheet and include both with the item when it is submitted into evidence.

8. Repeat these steps as necessary for multiple bags, continuing with Attachment B, Attachment C, and so forth.

9. DO NOT include money, medications, evidence, or other items that have previously been identified as needing to be listed on a separate evidence sheet or evidence screen with the other Attachment A items. This also includes items that clearly belong to a different individual than the property owner, such as driver licenses, credit cards, etc.

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SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR EVIDENCE: Evidence needing to be fingerprinted, processed for DNA, or tested/processed for any other special purpose needs to be noted appropriately in the Spillman evidence screen as well as on the evidence sheet AND on the evidence packaging itself.

EXAMPLE:

CL-13 – Fixed blade hunting knife with dried blood on the blade – DNA testing needed on this item.

Evidence package: “PROCESS FOR DNA TESTING” or “CONTAINS DNA EVIDENCE”

If you know you will be requesting that an item be tested/processed, use sound judgment as you collect the item by doing the following:

• Wear disposable gloves. o DO NOT use protective “search” gloves/tactical gloves, etc. that are used on a regular

basis as these will transfer DNA and contaminants to the evidence item. • DO NOT open any bag or packaging you will be placing the item directly into by putting your

hand into it or by blowing into it – this will transfer your DNA to the bag and onto the item. Open it without touching the inside of the packaging or allow the weight of the item to open the bag further.

• DO NOT package items to be tested/processed in the same bag with other items, even if you plan to remove and repackage the item later.

COMPUTERS AND DIGITAL EVIDENCE

SEIZING COMPUTERS AND RELATED EVIDENCE Computer equipment and cell phones require specialized training and handling to preserve its value as evidence. Officers should be aware of the potential to destroy information through careless or improper handling and, therefore, they should utilize the most knowledgeable available resources when possible. This may include enlisting the help of a computer forensics examiner, who will make an exact copy, or mirror image, of the computer's hard drive - the original is then stored as evidence and the examiner will then search the copy of the hard drive for evidence. This eliminates the possibility of altering or destroying any evidence on the original.

DO NOT search electronic evidence without proper consent/warrant. Even then, if the search is more involved than viewing text messages or a similar function, get a forensics expert to do the search so the evidence is not compromised.

When seizing a computer and accessories the following steps should be taken:

• Photograph each item, front and back, specifically including cable connections to other items. o Look for a phone line or cable to a modem for Internet access.

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• Do not overlook the possibility of the presence of physical evidence on and around the hardware relevant to the particular investigation such as fingerprints, biological or trace evidence and/or documents.

• If the computer is off, do not turn it on. • If the computer is on, do not shut it down normally and do not click on anything or examine any

files. o Photograph the screen, if possible, and note any programs or windows that appear to

be open and running. o Disconnect the power cable from the back of the computer box or if a portable

notebook style, disconnect any power cable from the case and remove the battery. • Handle and transport the computer and storage media (e.g., tape, discs, memory cards, flash

memory, external drives) with care so that potential evidence is not lost. • Book all computer items into evidence as soon as possible and do not store computers where

normal room temperature and humidity is not maintained. • The power cables, monitors, mouse, and other attachments that are not memory devices do not

need to be collected unless for other evidentiary purposes (i.e. fingerprints, DNA, etc.) • At minimum, officers should document the following in relation to the evidence item:

o Where the computer /item was located and whether it was in operation. o Who was using it at the time. o Who claimed ownership. o How the item was being used, if such information can be determined.

• If the computer belongs to a business or is part of a network, it may not be feasible to seize the entire computer.

o It may be possible to perform an on-site inspection, or to image the hard drive only, of the involved computer; However, this should only be done by someone specifically trained in processing computers for evidence.

COMPUTER/DIGITAL EVIDENCE PACKAGING: • Package the items in an appropriate sized bag or box and label each item with the standard

labeling information. o Cell phones/ Tablets - Remove battery (if possible) and/or the SIM card

• For further information, see policy #807 – Computers and Digital Evidence

PHOTOGRAPHS AND DIGITAL FILES: All digital photographs shall be uploaded to the Spillman Images Module and all videos, PDFs, voice recordings, or other digital files shall be uploaded to the Spillman Files Module.

• It shall be the responsibility of the officer who took the images / video to place the digital file into the associated Spillman incident modules.

• Photos, videos and voice recordings taken on an officer's cellular phone camera during the course of duty shall only be used for official business purposes.

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• These files, when no longer needed as evidence, shall be deleted from the device and never used for personal use or shared with others.

Detective's Responsibilities:

The photographs and/or videos obtained on a more serious felony offense shall be submitted to the appropriate Spillman Image or File Module (respectively), and the memory card the original image/video was recorded on shall be placed into evidence.

See Directive DD 14-05 for further information.

EVIDENCE PACKAGING

ALCOHOL/TOBACCO: Open containers of alcohol or open packages of tobacco/cigarettes can be photographed and destroyed on scene or transported to the police department and destroyed later. It is preferred that unopened containers/packages also be photographed, opened, and destroyed if there are no responsible adults to release the items to.

Opened or unopened items may only be submitted to the evidence room if there are other evidentiary purposes to the item (i.e. fingerprints, DNA, blood spatter, etc.)

• Be mindful of expensive, rare, old, or collectable alcohol items/bottles. These items may be submitted to evidence (open or unopened) or returned to a responsible adult owner when applicable.

• A separate evidence sheet must be completed for the destroyed alcohol / tobacco documenting the following information:

o Evidence item number o Brand, make, model, etc. o Whether the item was open or unopened o The evidence sheet must be signed by the officer and witness who assisted in destroying

the evidence item • The evidence item is entered into a PROPERTY screen in Spillman (not an evidence screen). List

the comments made on the evidence sheet in the Comments box in the property screen.

EXAMPLE:

Comments: CL-3 Open 40oz bottle of Smirnoff brand Vodka – Evidence destroyed.

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BICYCLES: All bicycles must be transported to the long-term storage (animal shelter) and secured inside the fenced-in area.

• Tie a tag to the handle bars documenting the evidence item number, incident number, officer’s P-number, and date.

o A white evidence label is the preferred method for marking the tag with this information but if one is not available, ensure that all pertinent information is listed on the tag.

• Place the evidence sheet in the bin inside the fenced area (attached to the flammable materials locker) or on the door of the evidence room as soon as possible.

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• The following items must be listed on the evidence sheet and in the Spillman evidence screen:

o Make o Model (if available) o Serial number (if available) o Color/other descriptors

EXAMPLE:

Evid- item: CL-1 Bicycle

Comments: Black and blue colored Specialized Rockhopper bicycle with black Bell brand headlight – Serial# 8930963LRH

BLOOD/URINE/BODY FLUIDS: Blood and urine will only be tested per request from the prosecuting attorney. Ensure that the Toxicology Analysis Request form is completed and sealed in the box or the sample cannot be tested.

Blood/urine/other body fluid samples must be listed on a separate evidence sheet.

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Body Fluids on Objects: Body fluids on clothing or other items shall be air dried prior to booking or being placed in a paper bag for further drying.

Standard labeling of the packaging is used but the item must be packaged separately and listed on a separate evidence sheet.

Be specific in the description of the item so as to notify the evidence technician of the potential biohazard.

Example:

Evid-Item: TP-1 Pants w/ Blood

Comments: Pair of Calvin Kline brand denim jeans with dried blood spatter.

Blood Draw Kits: Most of the information provided below is procedure for the officer/phlebotomist who obtained the blood sample from the suspect; However, there are occasions when an officer from another department obtains the sample and, therefore, the following must be followed in order for the state toxicology lab to accept the sample:

1. Label the sample vial with the included label. It is preferred that the label be filled out completely but the only State required information is the subject’s first and last name, and the incident number.

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2. Place a seal (provided in the kit) over the top of, or around the cap of each sample vial

a. Initial and date both sides of the seal with the initials being half on the seal and half on the tube.

3. Place the sealed tubes into the plastic vial case provided in the kit.

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4. Label the vial case with the provided label and write the required information on the label.

5. Place the blue seals over the lid of the vial case and initial and date each side of both seals with

the date/signature half-way on the container and half-way on the seal.

6. Place the vial case, along with the Blood Collection Report card containing the necessary information, into the box along with a copy of the completed Toxicology Analysis Request Form.

a. DO NOT put the chain of custody form in the box. The state crime lab does not need or want the custody form.

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7. Place the biohazard label on the front of the box and write the evidence item number, incident number, officer’s “P” number, officer’s signature or initials, and the date on the box.

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8. Seal the box with the provided seals and initial and date each end of both seals with the date/signature half-way on the box and half-way on the seal.

9. Blood-draw kits must be placed into a refrigerated evidence locker.

a. If a locker is not available, notify your supervisor. 10. Place the signed evidence sheet with the blood draw kit in the refrigerated locker.

For a full demonstration on blood sample packaging, see the blood kit packaging video from the state crime lab.

Code-R Kits: The sexual assault evidence kit, or Code-R kit, is obtained from the on-duty SANE nurse at DRMC. A list of the items contained in the kit, along with the documented medical findings, will be attached to the box in an envelope – DO NOT OPEN THIS ENVELOPE.

An additional envelope containing a secondary copy of the Code-R kit contents may also be available. This second envelope is to be opened by the case officer and all paperwork contained therein is to be filed with the officer’s report – DO NOT submit the sealed envelope.

• When submitting the Code-R kit into evidence, make sure the evidence item number, incident number, officer’s “P” number, officer’s signature or initials, and the date are written on the Code-R kit box.

• Code-R kits must be placed into the refrigerated lockers. o If a locker is not available, notify your supervisor.

• If there are other sexual assault evidence items, package each item separately in the appropriate sized manila envelope or paper bag so there is no chance of cross contamination. o If these items are obtained from the SANE nurse and the bag has been sealed with an

evidence seal, DO NOT open the seal. Either ask the SANE nurse to open it so you can see the contents and then have them re-seal the bag, or ask the SANE nurse what the contents are and document it as such in the Spillman evidence module screen, the evidence sheet, and in your report.

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• Mark each bag with the incident number, evidence item number, officer’s “P” number, officer’s initials or signature, and the date.

• Code-R kits must be listed on a separate evidence sheet from other evidence. • Place the signed evidence sheet with the Code-R kit into the refrigerated locker.

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CDs/DVDs All CDs or DVDs containing digital evidence are to be placed into a plastic evidence baggie with the evidence information written on the white evidence label.

• DO NOT write directly on the disc with a marker. The chemicals from the marker will eventually erode the information on the disc.

CHEMICALS/FLAMMABLE ITEMS: Only obtain chemicals or flammables as evidence if absolutely necessary. Otherwise, take good photos.

• All chemicals and flammables need to be transported to long term storage (animal shelter) and placed in the yellow container just inside the gate marked Chemicals/Flammables.

• Verify there is no risk of fire, explosion or health risk. • Notify the evidence custodian immediately by phone then also by email, forwarding a copy of

the email to your shift supervisor and watch commander. • Make 2 copies of the evidence sheet – one to leave with the evidence item and the other to be

placed in the mail bin on the evidence room door.

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• If samples of the chemical are required, contact the fire department who is properly trained and has the necessary storage containers to obtain a properly stored sample of the chemical/flammable item.

*NOTE* - If your chemicals are associated with a meth lab, STOP and contact the Drug Task Force immediately.

CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS: If multiple credit, debit or other financial cards are located in a wallet/purse and they all have the same owner, they can be itemized (listed)as being contained in the wallet/purse in the Spillman evidence screen for that item. If there are multiple cards with multiple owners, the cards belonging to each individual must be listed separately.

• Individually list each credit/debit card in the comments section documenting what type of card it is, the bank/store/company listed on the card, the owner’s name shown on the card, and the card number.

o For multiple cards, see information regarding “Attachment A” procedures.

Example: Bank of America Visa debit card belonging to Eve Edence – Card# 852123579642816

DRUGS:

Drugs/Paraphernalia: Most drug evidence should be packaged in plastic baggies with the exception of syringes (or other sharps), fresh plant material such as a live marijuana plants, or other items containing water or any amount of moisture (i.e. water- bongs).

• All drug evidence packaged in plastic baggies must be sealed with the heat sealer. The seal is to be made approximately 1 inch below the “zip-loc” seal. Ensure that the “zip-loc” seal is closed as well.

o DO NOT seal the baggie that your evidence was kept in by your suspect, as it is evidence of paraphernalia. Place that baggie into a clean evidence baggie, then seal the evidence baggie.

o Sign and date the heat seal on the evidence baggie. • If you obtain a live marijuana plant in a flowerpot, photograph the plant and flowerpot but only

collect the plant as evidence. o Unless there is an exceptional circumstance, do not submit the flowerpot and dirt into

evidence. • Syringes must be placed into an approved “sharps” tube or container regardless of whether or

not the needle is capped. o Label the sharps container with the white evidence label, ensuring all information fields

are filled out.

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Pills/Capsules/Tablets: Pills/capsules/tablets, both prescription and non-prescription, must be listed on a separate evidence sheet than other evidence or property.

• If multiple types of medication are mixed together in a container, the different medications need to be separated into individual bags. If the container is labeled for a specific medication, leave that type of medication in the bottle. Each medication then needs to be noted as having been contained in the original container in the evidence module, evidence sheet, and in your report.

• If there are more than 50 pills of any specific type, 1 pill must be removed and logged as a separate evidence item for drug testing. This is so the lab is not inundated with mass quantities of medications.

The following items must be documented on the evidence sheet and in the Spillman evidence module screen for each type of medication/pill:

• Type - name of the prescription, or common name and brand name of the non-prescription medication (i.e. Advil brand ibuprofen, Equate brand Acetaminophen, etc.)

• Dosage in milligrams (mg) or pertinent measurement • Quantity

o Half-pills and pieces of pills must be documented as well. • Color • Markings/Symbols

Example:

Evid-Item: TP-1 Pill/Tablet

Comments: Round green tablet marked OC 80 – Identified as 80mg OxyContin

Glass Pipes/Bongs • Glass pipes used as paraphernalia need to be secured in an appropriately sized bag (preferably

plastic unless the item contains water or has moisture in it). • If the glass pipe/bong is broken it must be secured in a sharps container or box to prevent injury

to anyone handling the evidence.

Prescription Drugs as Safe-Keep/Found Property Prescription medication submitted into the evidence room as safe-keep property or found property with a known owner is to be handled as follows:

• All prescription medication, whether controlled or not, must be sealed in a plastic baggie with the heat sealer and the seal initialed/dated by the officer.

o If the medication was located in a bag, purse, etc. the medication can be placed back into the bag and listed on the attachment A after being heat-sealed in a plastic baggie.

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• If multiple types of medication are mixed together in a container, the different medications need to be identified and quantity noted on the evidence sheet and in the evidence module. They do not need to be separated into different baggies/containers and they do not need a separate evidence item or evidence sheet.

DUI EVIDENCE: Intoxilyzer results, field sobriety cards or other paper evidence from DUIs need to be photo-copied and the copies filed with the report paperwork. The originals are to be packaged and placed into evidence.

• The original Intoxilyzer results/field sobriety cards are not easily accessible in evidence; Therefore, the copies can be used for reference purposes and can be accessed/printed for court as opposed to checking the original item out of evidence.

• Field sobriety cards submitted as evidence should be folded and placed into a plastic storage baggie.

• Utah driver licenses seized in relation to a DUI need to be sent to records with all other regular paperwork. Do Not submit the license to evidence.

• Out-of-state driver licenses, if seized, need to be logged into evidence.

FIREARMS/AMMUNITION:

General: All firearms must be documented on a separate evidence sheet from other evidence items. Multiple firearms can be listed on one evidence sheet if they were all obtained from the same location and owned by the same individual.

When a firearm is taken into SGPD custody, the officer must make every possible effort to identify the owner and then document that information in the report.

Each side of the firearm should be photographed, detailing any inscriptions, serial numbers, damage, accessories, or other markings.

Firearms as evidence: Firearms that are associated with death investigations SHALL NOT be disturbed. The detective or crime scene investigator will be responsible for collecting the firearms so as to preserve any evidence contained in or on them. Detectives collecting these firearms should take steps to preserve evidence for processing at the State Crime Lab. Firearms that need to be seized as evidence but are not involved in a death investigation AND do not have any trace evidentiary value (i.e. does not need to be fingerprinted, DNA swabbed, etc.) shall be handled in the following manner:

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1. With another officer witnessing, verify visually and physically that all ammunition is removed from the firearm and the firearm is safe. Ammunition is to be packaged separately.

2. If the weapon has a magazine, make sure the magazine is removed. a. See “Ammunition and Magazines” below for packaging procedure of those items.

3. If possible, secure the firing chamber with a zip tie (as long as this does not compromise the integrity of the evidence).

4. Each firearm must have a string-tag tied to the firearm with the following information: a. incident number b. evidence item number c. officer’s “P” number and initials or signature d. date the item was submitted to evidence e. signature and P-number of the booking officer and witnessing officer f. the firearm can then be placed into an appropriate sized paper bag or manila envelope

if size permits

Firearms that need to be submitted for further processing (fingerprints, DNA, gun-shot residue, etc. ) are to be handled in the following manner:

1. While making every effort to maintain the evidentiary value of the firearm, and with another officer witnessing, verify visually and physically that all ammunition is removed from the firearm and the firearm is safe. Ammunition is to be packaged separately.

2. If the weapon has a magazine, make sure the magazine is removed. 3. If possible, secure the firing chamber with a zip tie (as long as this does not compromise the

integrity of the evidence). 4. Each firearm shall then be placed into an appropriately sized firearm box, sealed with an

evidence seal, and the following information written on the box: a. incident number b. evidence item number c. officer’s “P” number and initials or signature d. date the item was submitted to evidence e. signature and P-number of the witnessing officer f. signature and P-number of the booking officer across the seal g. direction the barrel is pointing

Firearms with no evidentiary value: Firearms submitted into evidence under the Firearms Safe Harbor Act, as found property, or in other circumstances where the firearm is not an item of evidence, the firearm can be logged into the evidence room as Safe-Keep Property utilizing the following procedures:

1. With another officer witnessing, verify visually and physically that all ammunition is removed from the firearm and the firearm is safe.

2. If the weapon has a magazine, make sure the magazine is removed. a. See “Ammunition and Magazines” below for packaging procedure of those items.

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3. If possible, secure the firing chamber with a zip tie (as long as this does not compromise the integrity of the evidence).

4. Each firearm must have a string-tag tied to the firearm with the following information filled in on a white evidence label adhered to the tag:

a. incident number b. evidence item number c. officer’s “P” number and initials or signature d. date the item was submitted to evidence e. signature and P-number of the booking officer and witnessing officer f. the firearm can then be placed into an appropriate sized paper bag or manila envelope

if size permits

Firearms that cannot be rendered safe: If the firearm you have taken possession of has a live round in the chamber that can’t be removed due to malfunction, damage, etc., take the weapon to the storage area at the animal shelter and place it in the grey lockers with the barrel pointing upward. The lockers have a metal plate that is weighed down so if the firearm discharges somehow, there is less chance of injury or property damage.

1. In a safe manner (preferably not on the trigger guard) tie a string-tag to the firearm with the following information:

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a. incident number b. evidence item number c. officer’s “P” number and initials or signature d. date the item was submitted to evidence e. signature and P-number of the booking officer and witnessing officer f. the firearm can then be placed into an appropriate sized paper bag or manila envelope

if size permits 2. Place an evidence sheet into the locker with the firearm and place a copy in the bin on the door

of the evidence room. Make a note on the sheet that the firearm is loaded. 3. Notify the evidence custodian immediately by phone then also by email, forwarding a copy of

the email to your shift supervisor and watch commander.

Evidence Sheet/Evidence Module for Firearms: The following information must be documented on the evidence sheet and in the Spillman evidence screen:

• Make • Model • Caliber • Serial number

o If the serial number has been removed/obliterated then the officer shall indicate this on the evidence sheet and in the Spillman Evidence module.

• Owner and owner information o If the firearm is submitted into the evidence room under the Firearms Safe Harbor Act,

also include the owner cohabitant’s name, address and telephone number in your report. For more information, refer to policy 801.3.4

Example:

Evid-Item: CL-8 Handgun

Comments: 1 Glock brand G-17 9mm semi-automatic handgun with mounted light – Serial # XYZ789 belonging to Eve Edince.

Ammunition and Magazines • Magazines and ammunition are to be packaged separately from any firearms submitted to the

evidence room. • Ammunition must be removed from the magazine but the magazine and ammunition can be

packaged together. • All ammunition must be counted and the number of rounds documented on the evidence sheet

and in the evidence module.

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• Multiple magazines that contained ammunition must be packaged separately from each other. • Magazines that were collected but were not initially loaded with ammunition can be packaged

together if they belong to the same firearm. Empty magazines belonging to different firearms must be packaged separately.

Firearm Holsters/Cases: DO NOT collect the gun case or holster with the firearm unless it is evidence. Firearms are stored in gun boxes and not in the cases in the evidence room; Therefore, the cases become a storage problem.

For gun cases that are taken for evidentiary purposes, they must be submitted as a separate evidence item from any firearms/ammunition/etc. and must be listed on a separate evidence sheet.

FIREWORKS/EXPLOSIVES: Class C fireworks (small, consumer-grade non-aerial fireworks) can be secured in the appropriate sized storage package and placed in an evidence locker. All other explosives or fireworks must be transported to long term storage (animal shelter) and placed in the yellow container just inside the gate marked Chemicals/Flammables.

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• DO NOT place any type of igniter (i.e. matches, lighter, etc.) with the fireworks or in any locker in close proximity to the fireworks.

• Verify there is no risk of fire, explosion or health risk. • Notify the evidence custodian immediately by phone and then by email also, forwarding a copy

of the email to your shift supervisor and watch commander. • Make 2 copies of the evidence sheet – one to leave with the evidence item and the other to be

placed in the bin on the evidence room door.

FRAGILE ITEMS: Fragile items, such as thin/fine glass objects, delicate casts of shoe prints, etc., must be packaged appropriately so they are not damaged.

• Use a box or, if necessary, wrap cardboard around the item if oddly shaped. • If there is too much space in the box, use paper or packaging material to fill space. • If the item is small enough, a sharps container may be utilized.

IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS: If multiple identification documents (driver license, social security card, passport, etc.) are located in a wallet/purse and they all have the same owner, they can be itemized (listed) as being contained in the wallet/purse in the Spillman evidence screen for that item.

If there are multiple documents with multiple owners, the items belonging to each individual must be listed separately.

• Individually list each document/item in the comments section documenting what type of card it is, the state/country that issued the document, the owner’s name shown on the document, and any number associated with the document.

o For multiple documents, see information regarding “Attachment A” procedures.

Example: Utah State driver license belonging to Eve Edence – DL# 999999999

LARGE/LONG ITEMS: Long or large evidence items,(i.e. bats, pipes, golf clubs, etc.) must be listed on a separate evidence sheet. This is due to long/large items being stored in a specific location for larger items and, therefore, they cannot be bundled and/or listed with other evidence items.

• If the item is over 10 inches long, list it on a separate evidence sheet. • If the item does not fit in any of the evidence lockers, it must be taken to the long term storage

(animal shelter) and placed in the secured, fence-in area.

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o Ensure the item is labeled appropriately with the evidence item, incident number, officer’s P-number, officer’s signature or initials, and the date the item was collected.

• Leave a signed copy of the evidence sheet in the bin attached to the flammable items locker or in the bin on the evidence room door.

Large Items of Value: If an item of evidence or safe-keep property is too large to fit in an evidence locker or otherwise needs to be stored at the animal shelter, and the item is of value, place the item in the Evidence Transition Area via the door next to the flammable materials locker inside the fenced-in area.

• The roll-up door can be opened with your Range Key from inside the room if large items need to be brought in that won’t fit through the smaller side door.

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MONEY: If the money IS NOT evidence, it is strongly preferred that money belonging to a person being arrested either be given to someone designated by the suspect, or be taken to the Purgatory Correctional Facility with that person where it will be logged in with their property at the jail. This mitigates all the extra steps in packaging and processing the money, the finance department’s involvement with taking custody of it, making the actual bank deposit, and all associated paperwork and documentation. The suspect then has to wait until the end of the pay-period to get a check written out to them as opposed to the jail just cutting them a check when they are released.

If the suspect states that he or she would prefer the money be left with their property and booked in as safe-keep because they don’t want it put into “the machine” in pre-booking, encourage them to take it with them by advising them of our process and that they will get their money sooner if it is booked in with their property at the jail.

If the money is evidence or there are mitigating circumstances, the following procedures apply:

• All money that is logged into the evidence room must be packaged separately and documented on a separate evidence sheet from all other items of evidence for that incident.

• The money needs to be counted by two (2) officers and the evidence sheet signed and dated by both officers.

o If the money totals more than $1,000, the Watch Commander must be advised so that special handling procedures may be taken.

• The package containing the money must be sealed with the heat sealer (the seal should be made approximately 1 inch below the “zip-loc” seal).

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o Both officers who counted and packaged the money must sign the heat seal with their initials and the date.

• The total amount of the money in the evidence package must be listed on the evidence sheet and in the Spillman evidence module screen.

• Along with the standard information on the white evidence label, (Incident number, item number, etc.), the total amount of money must also be written on the baggie.

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PERISHABLES: Perishable food items will not be accepted into the evidence room unless sealed in an unopened, manufacture-sealed metal can and will be claimed by the owner before the expiration date. Otherwise, if the item is among safe keep property and can’t be turned over to someone via permission of the owner, or if the item is evidence, photograph the item and destroy it.

• A separate evidence sheet must be completed for the destroyed perishable item documenting the following information:

o Evidence item number o Brand, make, model, etc. o Whether the item was open or unopened o The evidence sheet must be signed by the officer and witness who assisted in destroying

the item • The evidence item is entered into a PROPERTY screen in Spillman (not an evidence screen). List

the comments made on the evidence sheet in the Comments box in the property screen.

EXAMPLE:

Comments: CL-2 Three unopened packages of Hostess brand Twinkies - Property destroyed.

Perishable Item Used as Paraphernalia: If an apple or other perishable item was used as paraphernalia, do not package the entire apple/item.

• Take a photo of the apple/item then scrape the drug residue out for your evidence • Destroy the apple/item, documenting the destruction as previously stated • List the drug residue as a separate evidence item

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SAFE KEEP/FOUND PROPERTY Safe Keep property is property that has been collected from the owner and the owner is aware that their property is being stored by our department.

Found Property is property that has been collected by the officer but the owner does not know that their property is being stored by our department, regardless of whether or not the owner has been identified.

• Safe Keep property and Found Property is to be listed on separate evidence sheets from each other, and separate from any evidence items from the incident.

Paraphernalia with no Evidentiary Value: Paraphernalia items that are found by the officer or that are turned in by a citizen can be disposed of if the following conditions are met:

• No known owner/suspect or no possibility of locating the suspect • No tangible drugs in the item or with it (i.e. clean pipe, new syringe, pipe with burnt residue but

no quantity of testable substance, etc.)

These items can then be placed into the sharps container above the evidence workstation and the disposal is to be documented in a CAD report or in Spillman as appropriate.

Transient Safe Keep Property: If large bags, tents, and other items have been collected from a transient camp or arrestee, the items should be taken to the animal shelter and stored in the secured, fenced-in area.

• Any items that can be damaged by moisture should be placed into the large black/yellow bins. There are zip-ties with the bins to secure the lids.

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SHARP ITEMS: All sharp objects must be secured in a manner rendering the object safe.

• Sharps containers are available for syringes, small knives, razor blades etc. • Fixed-blade knives can remain in the sheath/scabbard if collected with such. • Fixed-blade knives without a sheath/scabbard need to be secured in cardboard which covers

either the whole blade, or at least the sharp edge and point. • Folding knives with assisted-opening mechanisms must be zip-tied or taped in the closed

position. • Broken glass objects such as glass pipes, light bulbs, or other shards of glass should be placed in

a box if unable to fit in a sharps container.

TASER CARTRIDGES (FIRED): When an officer fires their Taser during a use of force incident, the cartridge is to be collected and packaged in the following manner:

• DO NOT break/cut the wires – leave everything connected as-is. • Wedge the barbs, point down, into the slots inside the blast doors. • Collect all items including the blast doors and as many “AFIDS” as possible

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• Place all components into a plastic evidence bag with the standard evidence package labeling • Write, in bold and clearly seen print, “BIOHAZARD” on the packaging or label with a biohazard

sticker if available

Document on the evidence sheet as well as in the Spillman evidence screen the Taser cartridge serial number as well as the serial number of the Taser it was fired from.

Example:

CL-4: Taser cartridge, serial #H06-323755 - Fired from Taser X00-777000

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RELEASING OF EVIDENCE OR PROPERTY

EVIDENCE RELEASED TO OFFICER FOR COURT: If evidence is requested by the prosecuting attorney for a court case, the following procedure is to be followed:

• Send an email or written request for the evidence to Evidence@SGCITY.ORG to ensure that your request is seen. Evidence will not be released if only a verbal or text message request was given.

• Include the incident number, evidence item number(s), and describe the item(s) in the email/memo. Using “Please” and “Thank you” helps also.

• The request should be sent at least 2 days prior to your court case so the technician can have the item ready for you when needed.

• The evidence sheet for the item will be signed/dated by the evidence technician as being released to you and you will sign/date it as having received it.

• As with standard evidence handling procedures, the evidence item is to remain in your possession or secured in your vehicle until returned (as soon as possible) to the evidence room.

• The evidence sheet will then be signed/dated by you as releasing it back to the evidence technician and the technician will sign/date it as having received it.

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If there is no evidence technician available when you return to the evidence room with your evidence item, fill out the “Evidence Return Form” located in the bin on the door and place the evidence item and form into an appropriately sized locker, then secure the locker and deposit the key.

EVIDENCE RELEASED TO OWNER: Found property with no evidentiary value can be released to the owner without the need for booking. The owner can request the property be released to a third party if extenuating circumstances exist that prevent the owner from personally retrieving the property. In such cases the owner must provide the following:

1. The information of the person to receive the property, and 2. A complete description of the items they want released.

The officer releasing the property must verify the identity of the recipient by means of photo identification, regardless of whether they are the actual owner or a third party retrieving the property for the owner.

The officer must also do the following:

1. Fill out the evidence sheet as normal, but indicate that the item was released to the owner in the description and do not mark any of the evidence/safe keep/found property boxes.

2. The officer then signs/dates the bottom of the sheet under “Released by” and the owner signs/dates under “Received by”.

3. The evidence receipt is then filed as standard paperwork with the report. 4. Create a Spillman property screen (NOT an evidence screen) for the item, filling out all

appropriate information and designating it as Lost/Found Property in the “IBR/UCR Status” box and as Found Property- Released in the “Local Status” box.

5. Include the recipient’s information in the involvements of the associated Spillman report.