The Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee heard SB 8 authored by Sen. Boots on forfeiture. The bill authorizes the forfeiture of seized property only if the property owner has been convicted of a crime. Sen. Young’s amendment to incorporate procedures for reclaiming seized property in hardship cases was adopted by consent.
The Heartland Institute, Indiana Public Defender Council, and an attorney testified in support of the bill. The Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council and the Madison County Prosecutor testified in opposition to the bill. The bill was held for further discussion, amendment and a rehearing in two weeks.
Read the bill at: https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2017/bills/senate/8