An inventory search is typically conducted for which reason?

An inventory search is primarily conducted for the protection of the owner's property. When law enforcement takes possession of an individual's belongings, such as during an arrest or vehicle impoundment, they often perform an inventory search to ensure that the property is accounted for and to prevent claims of theft or damage. This process helps to document the condition and contents of the property before it is secured, thereby safeguarding both the individual’s property rights and the agency's liability.

This rationale supports the legal principle that police must protect property while it is in their custody. Conducting an inventory search also serves to prepare a record of the items being held, which can be critical for returning those items to the owner in good order when appropriate. In contrast, while searching for hidden contraband and gathering evidence of a crime may occur under different types of searches, the primary focus of an inventory search is to ensure the protection of the property itself. Collecting witness testimonies does not pertain to the purpose of an inventory search, as this is a separate procedure related to criminal investigations.