civil forfeiture

Court orders $225K seized by police during traffic stop must be returned to semi truck driver

As I reflect on the recent court decision ordering the return of $225K seized by the police during a routine traffic stop, I can’t help but feel a sense of relief for the semi-truck driver who was unjustly stripped of his hard-earned money. The fact that the police held onto the money for such a prolonged period is appalling, and I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiment that interest and penalty fees should be tacked on for the inconvenience caused.

Civil forfeiture laws are a blight upon our society, allowing law enforcement to act as legalized robbers under the guise of suspicion.… Continue reading

Fargo woman facing 30 years in prison for bong water

I can hardly wrap my head around the absurdity of a Fargo woman potentially facing 30 years in prison over bong water. It’s utterly mind-boggling to think that a mere residue in a bong is being interpreted as a criminal offense deserving of such severe punishment. The fact that she’s being charged as a wholesaler even though there was no measurable weight of the drug is baffling and unjust.

To make matters worse, the police not only confiscated her car and $2,400 in cash but also intend to permanently forfeit them under a vague state law that allows authorities to seize assets based on flimsy allegations.… Continue reading