03/28/2025 - JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.
Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick has released his
office's compilation of 2024 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 2024, 607 Missouri law enforcement agencies were
identified as being potential participants in the federal asset forfeiture
system. Of these agencies, 110 filed reports. During their fiscal year, they
reported receiving nearly $7.6 million and spending over $5.8 million in
Justice Funds, and receiving over $700,000 and spending approximately $1.6 million
in Treasury Funds. The remaining 497 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 "Equitable Sharing Agreement and
Certification" submitted by law enforcement agencies to the State
Auditor's Office.
In February, the State Auditor released a compilation
of 2024 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.
