NRS647.096. Peace officer or investigator may place written hold on property possessed by scrap metal processor; procedure for obtaining custody of property; limitations on disposal of property; notice.

      1.  A peace officer or investigator who is involved in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity may place a written hold for not more than 7 business days on any property in the possession of a scrap metal processor that is related or allegedly related to the criminal activity. A hold pursuant to this section may be extended for an additional period of not more than 7 business days by a peace officer or investigator by providing written notice to the scrap metal processor.

      2.  While a hold is placed on property pursuant to this section, the scrap metal processor shall not remove or dispose of the property to any person other than the peace officer or investigator who placed the hold on the property. A peace officer or investigator who placed a hold on property may obtain custody of the property from the scrap metal processor if the peace officer or investigator:

      (a) Has obtained written authorization from the prosecuting attorney which includes, without limitation, a description of the property and an acknowledgment of the scrap metal processor’s interest in the property; and

      (b) Provides a copy of the written authorization to the scrap metal processor.

      3.  Property received by a peace officer or investigator pursuant to this section may be disposed of only in the manner set forth in NRS 52.385 or 179.125 to 179.165, inclusive.

      4.  A peace officer or investigator who places a hold on property pursuant to this section shall notify the scrap metal processor in writing when the investigation or prosecution has concluded or when the hold is no longer necessary, whichever occurs sooner.

      (Added to NRS by 2009, 1240)