Per our Evidence Manager, the following is our policy:
Medications (Including Medical Marijuana)
Medications, including medical marijuana, should only be released via an order from the courts and upon authorization from the PBSO Department of Legal Affairs. When forwarding an order for the release of medications to the Department of Legal Affairs, include as much information as possible including, the status of the case, copies of the property receipts, and all supporting documentation.
It may be necessary for the submitter to respond to the Evidence Unit to repackage the medications in their original prescription bottles prior to release.
If the owner of the medications was asked to provide a valid prescription for the return of the medication, the Evidence Technician may inspect the pharmacy printout or copy of the prescription to verify that the prescription was valid at the time the medications were taken. Have the owner sign the property receipt in the designated area. In the “Reason” area write “RTO” (Return to Owner) or something similar and put the date and time. Include the type of identification provided and the ID number in the reason field. The owner may be required to sign a hold harmless agreement at the time of the return of the medications. The signed original hold harmless agreement should be sent to the Department of Legal Affairs after the medications are returned. A copy should be placed in the property receipt file.
Thank you,
Laurie Brown
Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office