It is declared to be the intent of this Part 5 that all motor vehicles brought to the auto pound shall be disposed of as promptly as possible and within a period of 45 days, unless such vehicles are needed for pending litigation or police action such as the investigation of accidents or suspected violations of the law. If such vehicles are held beyond the aforesaid 45-day period they may be held only:under Court order, in the case of pending litigation; or upon written request from the Commissioner, in other cases. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §97(a) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 69-560 Ord. 87-1047