Police auctions are becoming a hotspot for savvy shoppers and collectors alike, offering everything from luxury watches to second-hand vehicles at unbeatable prices.
These auctions, held online and in-person, provide a unique opportunity to purchase items seized during criminal investigations or recovered but unclaimed by their rightful owners.
We took a look at some of the sites, concentrating on the London area, but surprisingly, there are not rich pickings to be had in much of the south-east. For instance, Thames Valley Police had no items for sale.
However, if you go to Sussex Police Auctions on eBay, there is a veritable treasure trove.
The Standard takes an online stroll through the auctions to see what bargains can be had.
Sussex Police Auctions, eBay
If you’re a fan of trainers, then you’re in luck. A thief with a love for trainers has swiped a stash, including big-name brands like Adidas (from around £38) and Hugo Boss (£64)– and the best news is, they look new.
And BMW car owners are also in luck, as there are tonnes of the car’s brake pads and discs to be had. On average, pads are selling for around £45 for two, with the discs from £99 – but you can put in offers.
Weirdly, there was also a copy of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde to be had for £6.99 – not such a bargain when you realise this writer had been perusing a copy for just £2.99 at TKMaxx at the weekend.
There are also, appropriately enough, lots of true-crime books to be had, including Mark Shaw’s Collateral Damage: The Mysterious Deaths Of M Monroe & D Kilgallen. Best be quick, though as three have already sold and there are only three left. You can get these for a tenner each.
However, one bargain to be had was a fourth-gen iPad for just £45 – useful if one of your children’s birthdays is coming up and they don’t mind that it’s not new.
With 99.8 per cent positive feedback, and 57,000 items sold, you can be sure to find something you like.
Northamptonshire Police – Vinted and eBay
Vinted, I hear you say? Yes, this police force is unusual in that they use the app to sell stolen goods.
Upon taking a look at their eBay account, it appears that thieves in this area (at least, those who are caught) do seem to have a penchant for clothing.
If you need a new wardrobe, then check the site out.
There was an Urban Outfitters mini skirt for the young and trendy, going for £19.99. But you could also pick up a Primark top to go with it, at £4.
There were also two Moschino bags with gold chains available for £80, if you fancy getting in some cheap designer accessories.
Babies were also catered for, with a dungarees, top and bib set for £13, and they are all new.
There weren’t as many clothes for men, but there are some good-quality electronics on offer, including a Nikon camera lens for £240.
General auction houses
I also searched auction houses, but there weren’t any police auctions at the recommended John Pye Auctions, though they specialise in retail, vehicle, luxury, and property, and are online.
Neither could I find specific police auctions on another site I had heard about, based around the country – Wilsons Auctions. However, I did find an upcoming government auction on March 28, which specialises in luxury items. They hold in-person auctions at their various branches but also online, though you need to register 24 hours ahead of the auction.
Again, I couldn’t find a specific police auction at Greasby’s, but they did say they have an upcoming auction on April 2. However, this is in-person only, in south London.
Tips for bidding
Bidding at auction can be thrilling, but it's crucial to be aware that your final bill will likely exceed the hammer price. Two common fees can significantly inflate the cost, so it's wise to calculate carefully before bidding.
By factoring in these fees, you can avoid unwelcome surprises and stick to your budget. Auction houses usually provide fee details in their terms, so a quick review can save you a lot of hassle later. Also, the MoneySavingExpert site has the lowdown on many other police auctions around the country.
