People know that asset forfeiture occurs on a regular basis but the real question still remains – is it always fair? Asset forfeiture in Nevada is where the government assumes ownership of a defendant’s property that has a connection to his or her alleged criminal activity.
Why does asset forfeiture occur? The point in taking away a defendant’s assets is to in hope reduce his or her ability to continue on with the illegal activity.
In 2010, Santiago Cruz a Las Vegas resident was pulled over for speeding. After moments passed by the officer then searched Cruz’s car for illegal drugs but he found $102,836 in cash instead. Now you can draw conclusions from that amount of information, the outcome was not good for Mr. Cruz.
No Drugs were found on the scene but still the officer confiscated the money and argued that it was made from marijuana sales. Because of the fact there was no hard evidence at all besides the fact Cruz had a prior drug arrest, and there were some questionable transactions. Cruz was later let go with no charges filed. The only catch? They kept Cruz’s money.
‘Where does this money go?’ Is the question that runs through each of our minds.
Nevada Public Safety Department In 2014 — $1.4 million funded 882 Tasers and related accessories for 802 sworn positions. In the biennial 2013-15 budget, $11,200 funded 28 small laptops, that were referred to as netbooks, for training academy cadets.
When it comes to federal crimes – prison and fines are definitely not the only punishments to take place. The government has the authority to also take property through asset forfeiture.
Although a skilled Nevada criminal defense lawyer may be able to protect the defendant’s assets while in the meantime getting the criminal charges dismissed completely.