Michigan Legislature considers more transparency for asset forfeiture

By Jarrett Skorup | Michigan Capitol Confidential

A package of bills that would provide more transparency in asset forfeiture cases in Michigan is being considered by the Legislature.

House Bills 5250, 5251, 5252 and 5081would require law enforcement agencies to disclose the number of criminal asset forfeiture proceedings, the alleged violation of the law and whether a person was charged or convicted, the date the property was seized, a description and value of the property, and a few other details.

Michigan has had numerous problems with asset forfeiture in the past, with money and property being seized by police from innocent people. The state has taken at least $250 million since 2000 and receives a “D-” from the Institute for Justice, a libertarian law firm that represents people pro bono who have been harmed by such practices.

at Michigan Capitol Confidential.