Forfeiture bill faces almost certain death this session

Those with hopes for an immediate change to Indiana's asset forfeiture laws may have to wait until the next legislative session.

A House bill that slows immediate legislative reform has moved faster through the Statehouse than a proposed bipartisan Senate bill that would change the rules governing the way police seize property from criminal suspects.

Rep. Timothy Wesco, R-Osceola, proposed House Bill 1123 earlier this year, which assigns a study committee on the topic of civil forfeiture laws. The bill has passed through the House and Senate and now awaits a signature from Gov. Eric Holcomb.

"I believe civil forfeiture is an important tool used by law enforcement, and is effective when implemented properly,” Wesco told IndyStar. “However, there has also been abuse and misuse. This is a complex issue that affects many organizations across the state."

Read more: http://www.courierpress.com/story/news/2017/03/22/forfeiture-bill-faces-almost-certain-death-session/99409528/