The bill H. 4712 aims to amend Section 17-13-140 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which governs the issuance, execution, and return of search warrants. The proposed changes include strengthening the requirements for law enforcement to provide a copy of the search warrant and the inventory of seized property to individuals subject to the search. Additionally, if no items are seized during the search, the law enforcement agency is mandated to restore the property to its original condition and ensure it is secured to prevent any potential damage.

Key insertions in the bill include provisions that require law enforcement to deliver a signed inventory of any seized articles to the judicial officer and to the individual from whom property was taken, upon request. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if no articles are seized, the law enforcement agency must return the property to its original condition and secure it, with potential civil liability for failure to do so. These amendments are designed to enhance transparency and accountability in the search warrant process.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 17-13-140
Latest Version: 17-13-140