A document sorting and stacking device provides for automated processing of randomly assembled batches of sheet items or objects such as negotiable instruments, currency, data cards, envelopes and the like which are fed into the unit in a continuing sequential progression for their separation and stacking, each in one of the designated multiple pockets. The motor driven transport conveyor of the unit moves the objects through the device at a known speed. If an object is 'tagged' to enter a particular pocket, a computing microprocessor controls a step-motor to advance a sorting belt to extend one of its capture fingers into the transport path for rendezvous with the object. As the belt is advanced further the capture finger closes upon the object and the belt pulls it forward for deposit in the designated stacking pocket. If the object is not 'tagged' for the pocket, the microprocessor holds the sorting belt in a position that hides the tip of a capture finger behind a parking paw to preclude rendezvous with the advancing object which then passes on to the next sorting and stacking stage of the device.

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