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Command Update: Asset Forfeiture

NCJ Number
129252
Date Published
1990
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This videocassette is designed for local and State police departments to learn how to seize drug assets and how to use those assets to cover the costs of the drug war locally.
Abstract
The videocassette discusses how to use the new forfeiture laws to seize assets from drug users and dealers and then how to use the profits from selling those assets to finance new drug enforcement investigations and/or new computer systems to modernize the investigative methods. The pros and cons of the new laws are discussed by two of the guests on the show. South Florida is used as a basis for other localities for how to apply the forfeiture laws to pay for the drug war. One of the criticisms of how the laws are applied is that police departments and the Federal government are accused of going after only the wealthy drug users/dealers instead of drug users of all income levels. The guests discuss the role and mission of the Office of Justice Programs in establishing local and State drug asset seizure/forfeiture programs and in assisting in other areas such as education and informational publications. Overall views of the status of the war on drugs are also offered. Horton vs. California is discussed as it pertains to setting standards for when evidence is found in plain view and is admissible and the techniques for obtaining evidence.