Found Property

The police department is responsible for the safekeeping, storage, return, and disposal of property recovered as evidence in criminal investigations, as well as lost and found items. 

When lost property is recovered and turned into the police department, every reasonable attempt is made to identify and return the property to its rightful owner. 

In many instances property is recovered but never reunited with its owner. At times, the owner of the property is known, but the owner cannot be notified due to lack of current phone numbers or addresses.

Making an Appointment to Retrieve Property

To make certain that the property is ready to be released, please call first to schedule an appointment. 

Call the Spearfish Police Department at 605-642-1300 and ask for the Evidence Room voicemail. Leave a message stating your name, phone number, and a detailed description of what you have lost. An evidence technician will return your call and schedule an appointment. 

You can also send an email with your name, phone number, and a detailed description of what you have lost via email to our staff. Again, please call ahead to schedule an appointment to ensure an evidence custodian is available.

Picking Up Property

Anyone coming to pick up property will be required to provide identification in the form of a government-issued photo identification (driver’s license, state identification card, passport, etc.). 

Depending on the nature of the property and the circumstances under which it was recovered, you may also need to provide proof of ownership.

Unclaimed Property

Any unclaimed property will be disposed of in accordance with state law and in most instances will not be held past six months from the day of recovery.