Hey, that was my getaway car!!! Ever wonder where property seized from criminals and crime scenes ends up? Steal It Back/The Property Room brings police auctions online, and New York City is now participating too, guaranteeing an large influx of interesting stuff. Part eBay and part "Cops" episode, the Web site is alternatively cheery ("Hot Pursuit Specials!") and puzzling. How did the police end up with that collectible "I Love Lucy" plate anyway? Where did those eight candlesticks and a Bible come from? Are they really selling that hydroponic grow light — that staple of dorm-room marijuana cultivation? How long before they show up to seize it back?
posted by amberglow on Jan 4, 2004 - 9 comments

An online collection of police auctions, all collected in one place is a pretty good find. They're like ebay, without the crowds. On the weird side: parking meters, books by the pound, and lots and lots of bibles (what crime was being committed when these were confiscated?!). There are some good deals to be found, and also some questionable merchandise: won't this item and this other item will be used in a crime again?
posted by mathowie on Oct 31, 2001 - 10 comments