Returning Property and Evidence
If you need to retrieve property or evidence held by the Azusa Police Department, this page will guide you through the process. Whether the items are related to a case, found by an officer, or being held for safekeeping, our staff can help you schedule a return. We’ve also included information about firearm returns, destruction timelines, and what happens to unclaimed property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about property retrieval, evidence returns, firearm claims, and property room procedures. If you don’t see your question listed here, please call the Azusa Police Department at (626) 812-3200 and request to speak with the Evidence Room.
How do I get my property returned to me?
To claim property, you must be able to prove that you are the legal owner, whether the item was booked as evidence or found property. Safekeeping items will always be returned to the individual who originally possessed them. A valid photo ID is required when retrieving any property. Property is defined as anything not considered evidence. Items held by the police department for safekeeping or items that have been turned in are also classified as property.
You can call (626) 812-3200 to schedule an appointment for property return.
What are the hours of the Property Room?
Walk-in hours (no appointment needed) are Mondays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Appointments are required for all other times and will be scheduled between 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM on Mondays, or between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM Tuesday through Thursday, except in special cases.
Note: Appointments are mandatory for retrieving firearms or money.
I need to pick up property belonging to a friend or relative. How do I do that?
If you’re picking up property for someone who is incarcerated, you must have one of the following:
- A signed LA County Inmate Property Release Authorization (blue form)
- A notarized letter from the property owner
- Legal Power of Attorney for the individual
When do you destroy firearms?
Firearms that remain unclaimed after 180 days may be destroyed per California Penal Code §33875. If the firearm’s owner is actively pursuing a release through the California DOJ’s Firearms Bureau, additional time will be granted.
What happens to unclaimed property?
Unclaimed property is transferred to The Property Room, an auction house for law enforcement agencies.
- Items held for safekeeping or evidence will be turned over after 60 days
- Found property will be turned over after 90 days
How do I get my firearms returned to me?
You must be the registered owner of the firearm. If the firearm was obtained before registration was required, you must submit a Firearm Ownership Report through the California DOJ and have your legal ownership verified by the Azusa PD. Additionally, a Law Enforcement Gun Release Application must be filed through the California DOJ per Penal Code §33850(a). If you have questions, please contact the property room.
How long do you keep evidence?
Once a case is adjudicated, the owner has 60 days to retrieve evidence after being notified.
How long do you keep property?
Property kept for safekeeping is held for 60 days after notification.
Found property is held for 90 days after the owner has been notified.