The Legislature sent Governor Gretchen Whitmer bills Thursday changing the state’s civil asset forfeiture laws. Supporters say there should be a conviction before police can keep a person’s property. They say it’s a due process issue.
Republican Senator Peter Lucido is a bill sponsor. He’s been working on these changes since he was first a Representative in 20-15.
Some members of law enforcement hope Governor Gretchen Whitmer vetoes legislation headed for her desk.
Bob Stevenson is the executive director of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. He says there are times when police will find money and some evidence of drug dealing – but no drugs. Stevenson says that’s not enough for a conviction, but the money was clearly proceeds from drug activity.