What should a member do with found property?

The correct course of action for handling found property is to give it to a division representative or create a receipt. This approach ensures that the property is processed according to established protocols and legal guidelines. By handing over found property to a designated representative, it can be properly documented and stored, helping to maintain accountability and transparency. Creating a receipt also provides a record of the transaction, which can protect individuals and the department by providing proof of the item's handling.

This procedure is crucial as it prevents potential misunderstandings regarding ownership and ensures that any investigation related to lost or stolen items can be conducted effectively. Proper chain of custody helps safeguard against claims of misappropriation or theft, reinforcing the integrity of the police force.

While directly returning property to the original owner seems like a compassionate action, it may not always be legally feasible or appropriate, particularly if ownership cannot be conclusively established. Keeping found property for personal use contravenes ethical standards and policies governing police conduct, undermining public trust. Reporting to a supervisor is an important step, but without the subsequent actions of transferring to a representative or creating a receipt, the found property's handling remains incomplete.