POLICE Department
Statement on HPD Property Room Sprinkler Malfunction
October 19, 2016 - At about 12:15 p.m. yesterday, HPD Property Room commanders were advised of a sprinkler malfunction confined to a relatively small area in the Property Room freezer, which caused water damage to some cardboard boxes and envelopes that contain evidence. Most of the evidence is contained in a zip lock bag or plastic container placed inside a box or envelope for storage.
At this time, Property Room evidence technicians are working closely with the Houston Forensic Science Center (HFSC) to ensure evidence is handled properly and are repackaging all items that were affected. Until all affected items are opened and inspected, there is no determination if any evidence has or has not been compromised.
The HFSC has been in contact with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and we continue restoration efforts in the Property Room freezer at this time.
Acting Police Chief Martha I. Montalvo
For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.
