03/21/2023 - Jefferson City, MO
Missouri
State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick has released his office's compilation of 2022
federal forfeiture reports. Law enforcement agencies that participate in the
federal asset forfeiture system must file information regarding federal
seizures and proceeds with the State Auditor's Office.
Law enforcement
agencies can seize money and property from individuals and organizations
involved in illegal activities. State and local law enforcement agencies that
participate in federal investigations resulting in forfeitures may request a
portion of the funds recovered through the system.
In 2022, 661
Missouri law enforcement agencies were identified as being potential
participants in the federal asset forfeiture system. Of these agencies, 118
filed reports. During their fiscal year, they reported receiving nearly $8.3
million and spending over $6.6 million. The remaining 543 agencies did not file
a report, although they were not required to file if they did not participate
in the system. A list of the reporting agencies with amounts reported is
included in the complete report.
The information included
in the compilation report is gathered from copies of the federal form "ACA
Form - Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification" submitted by law
enforcement agencies to the State Auditor's Office.
Last month, the
State Auditor released a compilation of
2022 Criminal Activity Forfeiture Act seizure reports submitted to
the State Auditor by prosecuting attorneys and the Attorney General. A complete
copy of today's compilation report on funds received by law enforcement
agencies through the federal forfeiture system is available online here.