The compilation of 2020 federal forfeiture reports prepared by the Missouri State Auditor’s Office was released March 17. Law enforcement agencies that participate in the federal asset forfeiture system must file information regarding federal seizures and proceeds with the State Auditor’s Office.
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Law enforcement agencies can seize money and property from individuals and organizations involved in illegal activities. State and local law enforcement agencies that participate in federal investigations resulting in forfeitures may request a portion of the funds recovered through the system.
The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, as of fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2019, reported Total Equitable Sharing Funds received of $18,029.92, which included interest of $29.92. A total of $17,268.04 was spent, leaving a balance of $761.88.
These amounts were reported in the summary of information reported for the Department of Justice. The sheriff’s office reported no forfeiture funds in the summary of information for the Department of Treasury.
In 2020, there were 671 Missouri law enforcement agencies identified as being potential participants in the federal asset forfeiture system. Of these agencies, 146 filed reports. During their fiscal year, they reported receiving $9.5 million and spending $7.8 million. The remaining 525 agencies did not file a report, although they were not required to file if they did not participate in the system.
A list of the reporting agencies with amounts reported is included in the auditor’s report.
Department of Justice and Department of Treasury Asset Forfeiture Programs are, first and foremost, law enforcement programs. They remove the tools of crime from criminal organizations, deprive wrongdoers of the proceeds of their crimes, recover property that may be used to compensate victims, and deter crime. Any state or local law enforcement agency that directly participates in an investigation or prosecution resulting in a federal forfeiture may request an equitable share of the net proceeds of the forfeiture.
The information included in the auditor’s compilation report is gathered from copies of the federal form “ACA Form – Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification” submitted by law enforcement agencies to the State Auditor’s Office.
The Gallatin Police Department was listed as one of the 525 law enforcement agencies which did not file a 2020 ACA Form – Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification.