The evidence program is one of the most essential programs within the Department.  The handling of evidence is of paramount importance to the mission of the Police Department.

In October, 2019, DB Consulting conducted an audit of the SCPD evidence program. We are delighted to report that our Property Room was rated as being in the top 1% of property rooms in the state of California. During the audit, particular attention was paid to the areas of weapons, cash, and narcotics. Issues in these areas may expose an agency to problems if they are not handled properly. 

The evidence is organized and tracked in our evidence tracking software program.  The Property Officer, using a Palm OS device, scans the barcode on the property tag as each item comes into and leaves the evidence room. This gives a detailed tracking report for each piece of evidence.

Property Release

Property is released by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 408-615-4727. Appointments are available Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm excluding weekends and holidays. The owner of property must provide a valid ID at the time of the appointment in order to claim items.

Property booked as Safekeeping will be held for 60 days. Safekeeping property not claimed within 60 days will be disposed of in accordance with California Civil Code. Found property items will be held for 90 days. Property booked as evidence is not available for release until 60 days after court adjudication of the case. A court order may be required to obtain property items in some cases.

Pharmaceutical Disposal Program

The Pharmaceutical Disposal Program is designed to help the citizens of the City of Santa Clara to safely dispose their unused, and/or expired medications. This program not only prevents the diversion, misuse, and abuse of such medications, but also keeps them from entering our environment and waterways.

Pharmaceutical’s can be deposited in the receptacle located in the lobby of the Santa Clara Police Department during normal business hours. Syringes, lancets, medical devices, non-prescription grooming products, insect repellant, cleaning products, or batteries are not accepted.