What is the purpose of an inventory search conducted by police at a police station?

An inventory search conducted by police at a police station is primarily intended to establish a record of the arrestee's belongings. This process serves multiple important functions, including protecting the arrestee's property while in police custody, safeguarding the police from claims of theft or loss, and ensuring that any items taken from the individual are properly documented and accounted for.

The legal basis for inventory searches is rooted in the community caretaking function of law enforcement, which allows police to take steps to safeguard property that might be lost or damaged while the individual is in custody. This is why police are required to follow standardized procedures for the inventory of items. The intent is not to search for evidence or contraband deliberately, as would occur in traditional searches conducted with probable cause or a warrant. Thus, the focus on the systematic documentation of belongings distinguishes an inventory search from other types of searches.

The other options reflect purposes that are not aligned with the fundamental objectives of an inventory search, further affirming the correctness of the chosen answer.