CT SB00970

Amends Connecticut General Statutes Section 54-36a to exempt property seized in criminal investigations from Freedom of Information Act disclosure requirements, except when the property is filed in connection with or introduced into evidence at a court proceeding.

Law enforcement agencies must file an inventory of seized property with the court clerk for the geographical area where the offense occurred, using forms provided by the Office of the Chief Court Administrator.

Exempts stolen property valued under $1,000 and property involved in unsuccessful theft attempts that remained in sealed containers from inventory filing requirements; such property may be returned directly to the owner.

Requires inventories from searches without arrest to be attached to the warrant and filed with the clerk of the court where the warrant was issued, with transfer provisions if the case is moved to another court location.

Takes effect October 1, 2019, and addresses issues raised in a Connecticut court case concerning disclosure of documents seized during criminal investigations.