Does police abuse civil asset forfeiture laws?

Police abuse of civil asset forfeiture laws has shaken our nation’s conscience. Civil forfeiture allows police to seize — and then keep or sell — any property they allege is involved in a crime. Owners need not ever be arrested or convicted of a crime for their cash, cars, or even real estate to be taken away permanently by the government.

What are real-life examples of civil forfeiture?

Sadly, real-life examples of innocent people ensnared by civil forfeiture are easy to find; they form the basis of many lawsuits brought by groups such as the Institute for Justice. In one case, police seized a New Jersey mother’s car after her son used it to sell marijuana without her knowledge or consent.

What is civil asset forfeiture?

Summary: Civil asset forfeiture is one of the most controversial and least understood U.S. law enforcement practices. Touted as an effective way to hamstring criminal enterprises, it also regularly ensnares the innocent in its proceedings. Many conservatives and liberals have called for its reform or abolition.