Really folks, I didn't pick Jim as an admin because of his views!
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As far as seizures relating to drugs or criminal activity I can see that and support it. However, the seizure should only be permanent after a conviction. If someone wants to fight it there is always the court system.
This is a VERY slippery slope.
When the police arrest you, it's an accusation. Facts are discovered during trial. IOW, police are not judge jury and executioner (yet?).
"We *think* you *may* be selling drugs, else why would you have all that cash? We're taking your car and all your cash and travelers checks under civil forfeiture laws. Maybe your passport too, flight risk you know". "You have 30 days to respond in court to the the forfeiture (if you can figure out the rules) or we keep your assets for good. Chump.
Possession is 90% of the law.
Lawyers (and/or using the courts to recover) are big bux.
You have done *nothing* wrong, yet you *have* to prove your innocence to become whole again (minus your time lost. Maybe your business folded in your absence, wife left, kids think you're now a dealer...).
Enforcement agencies have everything to gain, and nothing to loose. It's a *very* bad law.
Rick
