When money is found during a SW, which action is recommended?

• A. count, photograph, and secure money
• B. always have 2 witnesses
• C. return to occupant
• D. ignore it

Answer: (A)

Handling money found during a search warrant requires proper inventory, documentation, and securing to preserve evidence and accountability. First, count the money to establish the exact amount and ensure nothing is missing or added. Next, photograph the money to create a visual record of its condition and location for the case file. Finally, secure the money in a tamper-evident container and note it on the property receipt, maintaining a clear chain of custody. This process protects the integrity of the evidence and helps prevent loss or tampering.

Returning money to the occupant or ignoring it would undermine the procedure and jeopardize admissibility, and while having witnesses can be part of standard protocol in some scenarios, it does not replace the essential steps of counting, photographing, and securing the money.