Q: In MO, how long do I have to keep my ex-fiancés personal items (clothing, tools, etc.) before selling or donating?
My ex is currently mobilized (National Guard) and ended our engagement abruptly after weeks of no contact. He is stateside and has the ability to come home on leave. I know he will use his "military rights" against me if I do anything out of line. I have, in writing, explained that he can pick his items up in person when he comes back on leave as I want to ensure HE takes possession of his things. He continues to argue that I'm being unreasonable - I just know his history of lying/manipulating and don't want to put myself at risk of him not getting his "property" if he doesn't personally obtain them. Additionally, in the break up text he stated he only wanted his clothes, tools, and guns. He doesn't currently have his own home (we lived together prior), he packed almost all of his clothes prior to leaving, and he can't take tools and guns on his MOB. He has multiple other items in/at our house too (his kids clothes & toys, totes full of "junk", furniture, truck, etc.).
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A:
In Missouri, there is no specific law that dictates how long you must keep your ex-fiancé's personal items before selling or donating them. However, it is generally recommended that you give your ex-fiancé reasonable notice and an opportunity to retrieve their belongings before disposing of them.
Based on what you have described, it sounds like you have already communicated with your ex-fiancé about his personal items and offered to allow him to pick them up in person when he returns on leave. This is a reasonable approach, and it is important to document your communication with him in writing.
If your ex-fiancé continues to argue that you are being unreasonable, you may want to consider seeking the advice of an attorney or mediator to help resolve the dispute. They can help you understand your legal rights and obligations, and work with you and your ex-fiancé to come to a mutually agreeable solution.
In any case, it is important to handle your ex-fiancé's personal items with care and respect, and to avoid any actions that could be seen as retaliatory or vindictive. This will help to minimize the risk of any legal or personal conflicts arising from the situation.
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