It is worth being aware that analysis of your devices by the police can take some time. A typical case with no surrounding factors could take anywhere between 6-12 months for results to be obtained.
How long can the police keep your phone for evidence?
Depending upon the circumstances leading up to the seizure of the phone the interval of possession by the police can vary from a nanosecond to the end of time. Let’s assume that the collection and withholding of your phone took place in a jurisdiction such as the USA.
What can the police find out from your mobile phone?
Modern mobile phones are not just phones, they’re also mini computers, cameras, calendars, recorders, diaries and albums. Once the police have access to these devices, they can learn everything about you from the videos you’ve been watching online to the things that made you argue with your ex partners.
How long does it take to get a device back from police?
Your device is taken for examination by the police. Your device is placed into the evidence locker used by the computer forensic lab. It waits there until someone can get to it. The average backlog from what I have seen is 9 months to a year, just about everywhere.
How long does a technical analysis of a mobile phone take?
Technical analysis of phones can take several months as there is a significant back-log with most police forces for carrying out analysis of electronic devices. If, following analysis, it is confirmed that the phone does not contain any relevant evidence, then it should be returned to you.
