Sorry to hear about this issue TheDragon. I do understand how frustrating and maddening it can be when family does things like this.

I would say your best way around it all is to replace your ID's, get a copy of your birth certificate (usually about $5), replace your laptop if you can and write off the rest of the stuff for now.

I understand how it hurts, believe me. But I also think it will hurt you a lot more if you keep trying to retrieve your stuff and keep getting the runaround. Maybe this is their way of controlling a situation or you and also to make sure they hear from you. So go ahead and do something that will fluster them, get replacements and don't contact them anymore. That should get them wondering what's going on. Sometimes we have to cut our losses and move on.

There is also small claims court you can go to and sue them for your belongings. I'm appalled that the police won't do a "civil standby" so that you can retrieve your belongings. But, maybe if you get a judge to say you can have your things back, the police can be called for that civil standby then.

Wishing you well!