According to Harpers, in 2014 police seized more assets than burglars stole.
This is trickle-down kleptocracy in action. America is ruled by thieves, con artists, and corrupt officials (even if much of what they do is legal).
Police can generally seize any asset they say they think might have been used in a crime. They do not need a warrant, approval from a judge, or anything else. To get that property back, you must take them to court. In most cases, it isn’t worth it. This is one reason a lot of people in corrupt areas (or who have darker skin) don’t carry large amounts of cash. It’s not the criminals one needs to worry about, it’s the cops.
But they can take anything, including your car, boat, and even home.
This is punishment without trial, and it is dead routine.
Welcome to your dystopia.
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