LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Michigan House and Senate have given nearly unanimous approval for legislation that imposes new restrictions on the use of civil asset forfeiture by police agencies, and sent them to the Governor’s desk.
For decades, investigators have seized cars, appliances, cash and even homes during drug raids, claiming it was the proceeds from criminal activity, and resold it, plowing the money back into drug enforcement.
In some cases the property belonged to citizens who were found innocent, or never charged. Speaker Lee Chatfield says from now on, police will have to get a conviction first.
There are also other restrictions and limitations in the three bill package.
Police agencies are urging the Governor to veto the bills but Gretchen Whitmer has said she will probably sign the legislative package.
