> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://dpssop.equinoxroleplay.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# 7.8 - Evidence, Indications & Searches

> K-9 indication, search, evidence, documentation, and quality-control procedures.

**Purpose:**\
To establish standardized procedures for managing, documenting, and validating all K-9 indications, searches, and evidence recoveries. These guidelines ensure lawful search practices, accurate reporting, and preservation of evidentiary integrity consistent with state and federal standards.

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## Types of Indications

Police service dogs are trained to recognize and alert to specific odors. The following categories are authorized for active duty use:

1. **Drugs/Narcotics:** Controlled substances as defined under state and federal law.
2. **Weapons/Firearms:** Metallic or chemical odor profiles associated with firearms, ammunition, or explosive residue.
3. **Currency:** Odors consistent with high-denomination or narcotic-contaminated money as approved by training certification.

Handlers must know their dog’s trained odor library and maintain accurate training logs for each detection category.

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## Search Protocols

* Upon arrival at a search scene, the handler shall **define the search area**, confirm consent or legal justification, and brief supporting officers.
* The handler will **deploy the K-9 under full control**, systematically covering the area using a consistent search pattern.
* When the **K-9** indicates, the handler shall:
  * **Announce the indication** verbally to backup officers.
  * **Withdraw or restrain the dog** before any physical verification or evidence handling occurs.
  * Ensure **visual or physical confirmation** of the source by the handler or assisting officers.
* At no time may the handler **assume the presence of contraband** based solely on the K-9’s behavior without verification.
* All evidence recovered as a result of a K-9 indication shall follow the department’s **chain of custody procedures**, including:
  * Tagging, bagging, and labeling of items.
  * Recording collection time, location, and officer(s) present.
  * Proper transfer to an evidence technician or secure facility.
* **Body-worn cameras or in-car video** shall be used whenever available to document the search, handler commands, and the **K-9's** indication behavior.

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## Documentation Requirements

Every K-9 search must be thoroughly recorded in the handler’s log and corresponding case report, including:

* Date, time, and location of search.
* Type of search (vehicle, building, open area, parcel, etc.).
* **K-9's** behavior and indication type (passive/active).
* Results of the search (items found or none).
* Names of all assisting personnel and witnesses.
* Reference number for related incident or case file.

All reports shall be submitted to a supervisor within the prescribed reporting window and retained per evidence policy.

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## False Indications & Quality Control

A false indication is defined as a **K-9** alert where no verified target odor or contraband is located. These incidents shall not be viewed as disciplinary failures but as opportunities for review and improvement.

* Each false indication must be **documented in full**, including search environment, weather, and potential contamination factors.
* Supervisors and trainers shall **review all false alerts** to identify contributing causes such as handler cueing, distraction, or residual odor.
* The K-9 and handler may be assigned **refresher training** before resuming field operations if performance concerns persist.
* Patterns of repeated false indications shall trigger a **formal retraining and evaluation process.**