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  • Nevada Court Shuts Down Police Use of Federal Loophole for Civil Forfeiture

    Posted: 2025-01-15 05:15:24

    The Nevada Supreme Court closed a loophole that allowed police to circumvent state law protections against civil asset forfeiture. Previously, law enforcement would seize property under federal law, even for violations of state law, bypassing Nevada's stricter requirements for forfeiture. The court ruled this practice unconstitutional, reaffirming that state law governs forfeitures based on state law violations, even when federal agencies are involved. This decision strengthens protections for property owners in Nevada and makes it harder for law enforcement to seize assets without proper due process under state law.

    Summary of Comments ( 158 )
    https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42707573

    HN commenters largely applaud the Nevada Supreme Court decision limiting "equitable sharing," viewing it as a positive step against abusive civil forfeiture practices. Several highlight the perverse incentives created by allowing law enforcement to bypass state restrictions by collaborating with federal agencies. Some express concern that federal agencies might simply choose not to pursue cases in states with stronger protections, thus hindering the prosecution of actual criminals. One commenter offers personal experience of successfully challenging a similar seizure, emphasizing the difficulty and expense involved even when ultimately victorious. Others call for further reforms to civil forfeiture laws at the federal level.