The fire chief, fire marshal or his designated representative is authorized to take and preserve any property found at the scene of a fire or explosion during his presence there while in the act of extinguishing such or found later with the consent of the owner or pursuant to § 27-32.1, which property indicates the fire or explosion was intentionally caused. Any person whose property is so taken and held may petition the circuit court of the county or city in which the property was taken or judge in vacation, for return of the property, and the court may order restitution upon such conditions as are appropriate for preservation of evidence, including the posting of bond.
1970, c. 187; 1979, c. 189.
Structure Code of Virginia
Chapter 3 - Local Fire Marshals
§ 27-30. Appointment of fire marshal
§ 27-31. Investigation of fires and explosions
§ 27-32. Summoning witnesses and taking evidence
§ 27-32.1. Right of entry to investigate cause of fire or explosion
§ 27-32.2. Issuance of fire investigation warrant
§ 27-33. Report of investigation
§ 27-34. Duties and powers at fires
§ 27-34.2:1. Police powers of fire marshals
§ 27-34.4. Inspection and review of plans of buildings under construction
§ 27-35. Penalty for failure to discharge duty
§ 27-36. Appointment, powers and duties of assistant fire marshals