How long can the police hold my car for investigation?
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How long can the police hold my car for investigation?
Stopped by the police – no traffic violation or any other reason. The cop said he knows I stole the rusted metal in my truck. Impounded the truck. I have not been charged but they said they can’t release the truck with the metal in it. They are waiting for someone to ID the metal. What if no one comes?
Asked on November 29, 2011 under Criminal Law, New York
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Good question. Law enforcement can impound your vehicle as a result of a criminal investigation and keep it impounded for a reasonable amount of time. What is deemed reasonable depends upon the circumstances of each case.
I suggest that since you are under investigation for a crime and you want the return of your vehicle, you should consider consulting with a criminal defense attorney to discuss whether you actually did anything wrong with respect to the metal in your vehicle and how to get the return of your vehicle sooner rather than later.
If you lawfully have possession of the metal in your vehicle, you should cooperate with law enforcement so that you can get the release of your vehicle sooner rather than later.
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