Civil Asset Forfeiture in California – Sacramento Spotlight & State Reforms

Civil Asset Forfeiture in California – Sacramento Spotlight & State Reforms

California is a battleground for civil asset forfeiture reform, and Sacramento is at the heart of
the movement. As the state capital, Sacramento isn’t just where policies are debated-it’s also a
place where victims are fighting to recover seized assets, and where change is actively taking
root.

While laws like SB 443 have made it harder for state law enforcement to seize property
without convictions, the reality on the ground is complex. Counties throughout California,
including Sacramento, have historically partnered with federal agencies to sidestep state laws
through the federal “equitable sharing” loophole. In 2023 alone, agencies in California collected
over $145 million via civil forfeiture, much of it through federal channels.

Sacramento Cases and the Real Impact

In Sacramento County, forfeiture has been used in a range of cases-some valid, others
deeply controversial. One recent example involved a rideshare driver pulled over on 1-80 who
had $102,000 seized. No drugs were found. No charges were filed. Yet the government refused
to return the funds until the driver filed a federal lawsuit. After nearly a year of legal wrangling,
the court ruled the seizure unconstitutional, citing lack of probable cause.

These aren’t isolated incidents. Across the state, people have lost homes, bank accounts,
and vehicles without ever seeing a courtroom.

California vs. Federal Forfeiture Laws

• California Health & Safety Code §11469-11495: Requires reporting of
  seized assets and mandates conviction for forfeiture under $40,000.
• SB 443: Passed in 2016, blocks agencies from transferring seizures to
  the federal government unless specific thresholds are met.
• Federal Law (21 U.S.C. § 881): Allows civil forfeiture with minimal proof,
  no conviction, and weak procedural protections.

Despite these laws, many California law enforcement agencies continue to exploit federal
partnerships. Only aggressive legal defense and public scrutiny have kept abuse in check.

Statewide Support Resources

• CA Attorney General’s
  Forfeiture Dashboard – track where funds go.
• California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  advocacy and legal guidance.
• McGeorge School of Law Legal
  Clinics – potential free support in Sacramento.

Our Resources page also includes
sample forms, claim guides, and filing deadlines.

Ongoing Reform Efforts

California lawmakers are considering new bills to close remaining loopholes and strengthen
victim protections. Proposals include:

• Mandating hearings within 45 days of seizure.
• Creating independent audit boards to review abuse cases.
• Requiring agencies to publish detailed forfeiture outcome reports annually.

These efforts are crucial. When forfeiture is allowed to go unchecked, innocent people pay
the price. That’s why public awareness and legal resistance matter.

Conclusion: Make Sacramento Work for You

Sacramento may be the hub of California politics-but it’s also the front line for forfeiture
defense. Don’t let bureaucracy and silence steal your assets. Demand transparency, demand
accountability, and use the law to your advantage.

Call to Action

Are you facing a forfeiture case in Sacramento or elsewhere in California? Don’t go
it alone. Our team at ForfeitureUSA helps victims fight back and win. Call
330-720-0398 or request a free
case review now.