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Models for Management: Motor Vehicle Seizure and Forfeiture

NCJ Number
111733
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 55 Issue: 6 Dated: (June 1988) Pages: 59-60
Date Published
1988
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This model presents police procedures for the seizure and forfeiture of motor vehicles used during the commission of a felony involving transportation, facilitation of transportation, concealment, manufacture, or protection of controlled substances.
Abstract
Procedures for seizing the vehicle for forfeiture include determining if the vehicle is subject to seizure, obtaining clearance to seize for forfeiture, determining vehicle ownership, obtaining registration and title, determining if the vehicle is to be processed by evidence technicians, and having the vehicle towed to the appropriate location. Procedures for supervising the seizure encompass the assessment of factors for determining the practicality of a seizure and the monitoring of recordkeeping associated with any seizure. Procedures are also specified for vehicle storage and processing. Responsibilities of the drug enforcement unit include receiving copies of all reports from the seizing officers, obtaining vehicle keys, and ensuring proper maintenance during the holding period; ensuring that the proper administrative hold has been placed on the property; determining any lienholder, person, or lending institution or other person having financial or equitable interest in the vehicle; determining the value of the vehicle for future sale or use in the department; and coordinating all recordkeeping and disposition of the vehicle.