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<p>Section 22 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) 1984 requires that, once seized, property be retained only for so long as is necessary. Specifically, items may only be retained for use as evidence at a trial, for forensic examination or for investigation in connection with an offence or to establish the rightful owner of the property. It is the responsibility of the officer in charge of the investigation to ensure that property is returned as soon as practicable.</p><p>PACE Code of Practice C covers the seizure and retention of evidence found by police officers on persons or premises. We of course expect the police to comply with all relevant legislative requirements.</p><p>There are no current plans to review the issue of evidence retention within section 19 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act. We will, however, keep such matters under consideration.</p> |