To minimize storage and management costs to the Department of Justice, the state or local agency requesting adoption of a conveyance should serve as the substitute custodian of the property pending forfeiture. The United States Marshals Service (USMS) may authorize a state or local law enforcement agency requesting adoption of other personal property, except cash and other financial instruments, to serve as the substitute custodian where appropriate. Use or disposition of the property during this period by state or local law enforcement officials or others is prohibited. See Chapter 1 of the Asset Forfeiture Policy Manual.

[updated May 2010] [cited in JM 9-119.010]