HF 4673

as introduced - 93rd Legislature (2023 - 2024) Posted on 04/02/2024 01:12pm

A bill for an act
relating to forfeiture; providing for a criminal forfeiture process; amending
Minnesota Statutes 2022, sections 145.4716, subdivision 2; 289A.14; 299A.681,
subdivision 11; 609.66, subdivision 1d; 609.762, subdivision 2; 611.32, subdivision
2; 629.715, subdivision 2; Minnesota Statutes 2023 Supplement, section 609.5316,
subdivision 1; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 609;
repealing Minnesota Statutes 2022, sections 609.531, subdivisions 1a, 4, 5, 5a, 6a,
7, 8, 9; 609.5311, subdivisions 2, 3, 4; 609.5312; 609.5313; 609.5314, subdivisions
1a, 2; 609.5315, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 5b, 5c, 7; 609.5318; 609.5319;
609.762, subdivisions 3, 4, 5, 6; Minnesota Statutes 2023 Supplement, sections
609.531, subdivision 1; 609.5311, subdivision 1; 609.5314, subdivisions 1, 3.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

ARTICLE 1

CRIMINAL FORFEITURE PROCESS

Section 1.

new text begin [609.112] CRIMINAL FORFEITURE PROCESS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin (a) As used in this section, the following terms have the
meanings given.
new text end

new text begin (b) "Abandoned property" means personal property left by a possessor who relinquishes
all rights to the personal property's control. Real property may not be abandoned.
new text end

new text begin (c) "Actual knowledge" means direct and clear awareness of information, a fact, or a
condition.
new text end

new text begin (d) "Appropriate agency" means the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension; the Department
of Commerce Fraud Bureau; the Minnesota Division of Driver and Vehicle Services; the
Minnesota State Patrol; a county sheriff's department; the Three Rivers Park District; the
Department of Natural Resources Division of Enforcement; the University of Minnesota
Police Department; the Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit; a city,
metropolitan transit, or airport police department; or a multijurisdictional entity established
under section 299A.642 or 299A.681.
new text end

new text begin (e) "Contraband" means goods that inherently are unlawful to possess, including:
new text end

new text begin (1) scheduled drugs without a valid prescription;
new text end

new text begin (2) bullet-resistant vests, as defined in section 609.486, worn or possessed during the
commission or attempted commission of a crime; and
new text end

new text begin (3) weapons, upon conviction of the weapon's owner or possessor, for:
new text end

new text begin (i) any offense under chapter 624; or
new text end

new text begin (ii) a violation of an order for protection under section 518B.01, subdivision 14.
new text end

new text begin Contraband does not include proceeds derived from an alleged crime or an instrumentality
used in an alleged crime.
new text end

new text begin (f) "Conveyance" means a device used for transportation. Conveyance includes a motor
vehicle, trailer, snowmobile, airplane, vessel, or any equipment attached to one of these
devices. The term does not include property that is stolen in violation of the law.
new text end

new text begin (g) "Designated offense" means:
new text end

new text begin (1) for weapons used, any violation of chapter 152 or 624;
new text end

new text begin (2) for driver's license or identification card transactions, any violation of section 171.22;
new text end

new text begin (3) for controlled substances, any violation of chapter 152 or 342, except as provided
in section 609.5316; or
new text end

new text begin (4) for all other purposes, a felony violation of or a felony-level attempt or conspiracy
to violate section 325E.17; 325E.18; 609.185; 609.19; 609.195; 609.2112; 609.2113;
609.2114; 609.221; 609.222; 609.223; 609.2231; 609.2335; 609.24; 609.245; 609.247;
609.25; 609.255; 609.282; 609.283; 609.322; 609.342; 609.343; 609.344; 609.345; 609.352;
609.42; 609.425; 609.466; 609.485; 609.487; 609.52; 609.525; 609.527; 609.528; 609.53;
609.54; 609.551; 609.561; 609.562; 609.563; 609.582; 609.59; 609.595; 609.611; 609.631;
609.66; 609.671, subdivisions 3, 4, 5, 8, and 12; 609.687; 609.821; 609.825; 609.86; 609.88;
609.89; 609.893; 609.895; 617.246; or 617.247; a gross misdemeanor or felony violation
of section 609.891 or 624.7181; or any violation of section 609.324.
new text end

new text begin (h) "Innocent owner" means an owner, co-owner, defendant's heir or assigns, or person
who regularly uses property subject to forfeiture who does not have actual knowledge of
the use of the property in a crime that authorizes the forfeiture of property. Innocent owner
does not include the defendant or a secured interest holder.
new text end

new text begin (i) "Instrumentality" means property otherwise lawful to possess that is used in a crime
that authorizes the forfeiture of property. Instrumentality includes land, buildings, containers,
conveyances, equipment, materials, products, tools, computers, computer software,
telecommunications devices, firearms, ammunition, and ammunition and firearm accessories.
new text end

new text begin (j) "Law enforcement agency" means any nonfederal police force or other local, county,
or state agency that has the authority under state law to engage in seizure and forfeiture.
new text end

new text begin (k) "Proceeds" means money, securities, negotiable instruments, or other means of
exchange obtained from the sale of property or contraband.
new text end

new text begin (l) "Prosecuting authority" means a city attorney, county attorney, attorney general, or
other attorney acting under specific direction and authority appointed or charged by law
with the responsibility for prosecuting crime.
new text end

new text begin (m) "Public defender" means any office of public defense or court-appointed counsel.
new text end

new text begin (n) "Real property" means land and anything growing on, attached to, or erected on the
land, including a building.
new text end

new text begin (o) "Secured interest holder" means a person who is a secured creditor, mortgagee,
lienholder, or other person who has a valid claim, security interest, mortgage, lien, leasehold,
or other interest in the property subject to forfeiture. Secured interest holder does not include
the defendant or an innocent owner.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Purpose. new text end

new text begin Forfeiture is disfavored. This section's purpose is to:
new text end

new text begin (1) deter criminal activity by reducing its economic incentives;
new text end

new text begin (2) confiscate property used in the violation of the law and disgorge the gains of illegal
conduct; and
new text end

new text begin (3) protect the due process rights of property owners.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Jurisdiction. new text end

new text begin (a) No civil forfeiture is permitted under this section.
new text end

new text begin (b) The court that has jurisdiction in the related criminal matter shall have jurisdiction
over the forfeiture proceeding.
new text end

new text begin (c) The forfeiture proceeding shall be part of the trial of the related crime and shall follow
a finding of the defendant's guilt or be conducted at the court's discretion.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Seizure of personal property with process. new text end

new text begin At the request of the prosecuting
authority, a court may issue an ex parte order to attach, seize, or secure proceeds or personal
property for which forfeiture is sought and to provide for its custody. Application, issuance,
execution, and return are subject to state law and court rules.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Seizure of proceeds without process. new text end

new text begin Proceeds may be seized as part of a
lawful search without a court order if the state has probable cause to believe the proceeds
were exchanged for the purchase of a controlled or other illegal substance, or for another
illegal activity and:
new text end

new text begin (1) the proceeds were seized subject to a lawful arrest;
new text end

new text begin (2) the state has probable cause to believe the delay caused by the necessity of obtaining
process would result in the removal or destruction of the proceeds; or
new text end

new text begin (3) the proceeds are the subject of a prior and valid judgment of forfeiture in favor of
the state.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Seizure of personal property without process. new text end

new text begin Personal property may be
seized, as part of a lawful search, without a court order if:
new text end

new text begin (1) the personal property subject to forfeiture is seized incident to a lawful arrest;
new text end

new text begin (2) the state has probable cause to believe the delay caused by the necessity of obtaining
process would result in the removal or destruction of the personal property that is forfeitable
under this section; or
new text end

new text begin (3) the personal property is the subject of a prior and valid judgment of forfeiture in
favor of the state.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Seizure or restraint of real property with process. new text end

new text begin (a) Real property may
not be seized or restrained without a court order.
new text end

new text begin (b) A court may not issue an order unless the defendant and any other person with a
known interest in the property receive proper notice and are given an opportunity for a
contested hearing to determine the existence of probable cause for the seizure.
new text end

new text begin (c) Nothing in this subdivision prohibits the prosecuting authority from seeking a lis
pendens or restraining order to hinder the sale or destruction of real property. However, if
the prosecuting authority obtains a lis pendens or restraining order, the prosecuting authority
shall notify the defendant and any other person with known interest in the property within
30 days.
new text end

new text begin (d) Application, filing, issuance, execution, and return of any order are subject to state
law and court rules.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Stolen property and contraband. new text end

new text begin (a) No property right exists in stolen property
or contraband.
new text end

new text begin (b) Stolen property and contraband are subject to seizure.
new text end

new text begin (c) Stolen property shall be returned and contraband shall be disposed of according to
state law.
new text end

new text begin (d) Notwithstanding paragraph (c), the court may impose reasonable conditions on the
release of stolen property and the disposal of contraband, including the use of photographic
evidence, to preserve the property for later use as evidence in proceedings under this chapter.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Receipt. new text end

new text begin When property is seized, the law enforcement officer shall give an
itemized receipt to the person possessing the property at the time of the seizure. The receipt
shall be numbered for future reference and shall constitute notice of seizure. If the person
possessing the property is not present, the law enforcement officer shall leave a receipt in
the place where the property was found, if reasonably possible.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Homestead real property exempt from seizure and forfeiture. new text end

new text begin Homestead
real property is exempt from seizure and forfeiture.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Property exempt from seizure and forfeiture. new text end

new text begin (a) The prosecuting authority
may establish minimum dollar amounts for seizure of currency and motor vehicles in the
prosecuting authority's jurisdiction. The prosecuting authority shall set the minimums in
the interests of justice and efficient use of governmental resources. The minimums shall be
based on the prosecuting authority's exclusive determination and may include:
new text end

new text begin (1) the deterrence that minimum-dollar seizures have on crime;
new text end

new text begin (2) the type and number of criminal offenses that include the seizure of property; and
new text end

new text begin (3) the average value of seized property less the costs to seize and forfeit it.
new text end

new text begin (b) The prosecuting authority shall post on its website the publications that law
enforcement agencies may use to establish the value of a motor vehicle in the prosecuting
authority's jurisdiction. The publications may include the Kelly Blue Book and the JD
Power/NADA Official Used Car Guide.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 12. new text end

new text begin Waiver. new text end

new text begin (a) A person from whom property is seized may relinquish the person's
rights, interests, and title in the seized property by knowingly and voluntarily executing a
waiver that is agreed to by the prosecuting authority.
new text end

new text begin (b) The waiver is subject to a claim by a secured interest holder, innocent owner, or
other person entitled to notice under subdivision 15. The claimant may consent to some
issues and have the court determine remaining issues.
new text end

new text begin (c) A law enforcement officer, other than the prosecuting authority, may not request,
require, or induce a person to waive, for purpose of forfeiture, the person's interest in
property.
new text end

new text begin (d) A document purporting to waive interest or rights in seized property is void and
inadmissible in court unless the prosecuting authority obtained the waiver.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 13. new text end

new text begin Title. new text end

new text begin (a) Title to the property subject to forfeiture vests with the state when
the court issues a forfeiture judgment and relates back to the time when the state seizes or
restrains the property.
new text end

new text begin (b) Title to substitute assets vests when the court issues an order forfeiting substitute
assets.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end

new text begin Counsel. new text end

new text begin (a) If the defendant in the criminal prosecution is represented by a
public defender, the public defender's office shall authorize representation of the defendant
in the forfeiture portion of the proceeding and any other related proceeding.
new text end

new text begin (b) If the defendant and any other person with an interest in the property engages in pro
se representation in the forfeiture-related proceeding before a judge, the court may exercise
its discretion applying the rules of pleading, procedure, or evidence.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end

new text begin Notice to other known owners. new text end

new text begin (a) The prosecuting authority shall perform
a reasonable search of vehicle registrations, property records, and other public records to
identify any person, other than the defendant, known to have an interest in the property
subject to forfeiture.
new text end

new text begin (b) The prosecuting authority shall give notice to any person identified to have an interest
in the property subject to forfeiture who is not charged or indicted. The notice shall include
the seizure receipt number in subdivision 9. Notice must be given as provided by the rules
of the court.
new text end

new text begin (c) The following language substantially and conspicuously must appear in the notice:
"WARNING: You may lose the right to be heard in court if you do not promptly file a
statement of interest or ownership pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 609.112,
subdivision 22 or 23. You do not have to pay a filing fee to file your notice."
new text end

new text begin (d) If notice is not served on any persons appearing to have an interest in the property
and no time extension is granted or the extension period has expired, the prosecuting authority
or court shall order the return of the property to the person who makes a request. Contraband
shall not be returned.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end

new text begin Prompt postseizure hearing. new text end

new text begin (a) Following seizure, a defendant or any other
person with an interest in the property has a right to a prompt postseizure hearing.
new text end

new text begin (b) A person with an interest in the property may petition the court for a hearing.
new text end

new text begin (c) At the court's discretion, the court may hold a prompt postseizure hearing:
new text end

new text begin (1) as a separate hearing;
new text end

new text begin (2) at the same time as a probable cause determination, a postarraignment omnibus
hearing, or other pretrial hearing; or
new text end

new text begin (3) at the court's discretion.
new text end

new text begin (d) A party, by agreement or for good cause, may move for one extension. Any motion
may be supported by affidavits or other submissions.
new text end

new text begin (e) The court shall order the return of property if it finds by a preponderance of the
evidence that:
new text end

new text begin (1) the seizure was invalid;
new text end

new text begin (2) a criminal charge has not been filed and no extension of the filing period is available;
new text end

new text begin (3) the petitioner is a valid innocent owner or creditor; or
new text end

new text begin (4) the government's continued possession of the property will cause substantial hardship,
such as preventing an individual from working, leaving an individual homeless, or
inconveniencing the transportation of a child.
new text end

new text begin (f) At the court's discretion, the court may order the return of enough funds and property
for the defendant to obtain counsel of choice but less than the total amount seized.
new text end

new text begin (g) Notwithstanding paragraphs (d) and (e), the court may impose reasonable conditions
on the return of the property, including the use of photographic evidence, to preserve the
property for later use as evidence in proceedings under this chapter.
new text end

new text begin (h) The provisions of this subdivision do not apply to contraband.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 17. new text end

new text begin Notice of proposed forfeiture. new text end

new text begin (a) In any case in which the state seeks
forfeiture of property, the prosecuting authority shall file with the court a notice of proposed
forfeiture. The notice shall be a separate document that shall include the following
information:
new text end

new text begin (1) a description of the property seized;
new text end

new text begin (2) the time, date, and place of the seizure;
new text end

new text begin (3) the seizure receipt number under subdivision 9; and
new text end

new text begin (4) a description of the property used in or derived from the alleged crime.
new text end

new text begin (b) The prosecuting authority may allege, in the notice, the forfeiture of property as a
process after the conviction of the crime for which the defendant is charged or as part of
sentencing consideration.
new text end

new text begin (c) The notice shall not be read to the jury.
new text end

new text begin (d) The prosecuting authority shall serve the notice:
new text end

new text begin (1) with the initial charging instrument;
new text end

new text begin (2) separately but not later than 90 days after the presentment of the complaint for a
misdemeanor;
new text end

new text begin (3) the earlier of 90 days after presentment to a grand jury or 180 days after an arrest
for a felony; or
new text end

new text begin (4) at the court's discretion.
new text end

new text begin (e) At the court's discretion, the court may allow the prosecuting authority to amend the
notice as required in the interest of justice.
new text end

new text begin (f) The court shall order the return of the property to the owner if the prosecuting authority
does not file a charging document as provided by the court's rules, the period of an extension
expires, or the court does not grant an extension.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 18. new text end

new text begin Discovery. new text end

new text begin Discovery related to the forfeiture proceeding is subject to the
rules of criminal procedure.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 19. new text end

new text begin Trial; conviction required; standard of proof. new text end

new text begin (a) Property may be forfeited
if the state:
new text end

new text begin (1) secures a conviction of a designated offense; and
new text end

new text begin (2) establishes by clear and convincing evidence that the property is (i) an instrumentality
of or (ii) proceeds or personal property derived directly from the crime for which the state
secured a conviction.
new text end

new text begin (b) After the defendant's conviction, the court has the discretion to hold the forfeiture
proceeding as soon as practicable, including concurrent with sentencing. The court shall
conduct the forfeiture proceeding without a jury.
new text end

new text begin (c) Except as required by subdivisions 10 and 11, nothing in this chapter prevents property
from being forfeited by consent order approved by the court provided that secured interest
holders, innocent owners, or other persons entitled to notice under subdivision 15 consent
to the forfeiture. That claimant may consent to some issues and have the court determine
remaining issues.
new text end

new text begin (d) The consent order may reflect:
new text end

new text begin (1) a plea agreement;
new text end

new text begin (2) a diversion agreement; or
new text end

new text begin (3) a grant of immunity or reduced punishment, with or without the filing of a criminal
charge, in exchange for testifying or assisting a law enforcement investigation or prosecution.
new text end

new text begin (e) To effectuate paragraph (d), clause (3), the parties may file notice under seal with
the court if the person is represented by counsel. If the person is not represented by counsel,
the prosecuting authority may file an ex parte notice under seal with the court. The notice
shall advise the court of the reason for granting immunity, reducing punishment, or not
filing a charge.
new text end

new text begin (f) The court may use the notice in paragraph (e) in its consideration of an order to
transfer title to the property to the state and dispose of the property according to subdivision
31.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 20. new text end

new text begin Exceptions to the conviction requirement. new text end

new text begin (a) The court may waive the
conviction requirement and grant permanent title of the property to the state if the prosecuting
authority files a motion no fewer than 90 days after seizure and shows by clear and
convincing evidence that, before conviction, the defendant:
new text end

new text begin (1) died;
new text end

new text begin (2) was deported by the United States government;
new text end

new text begin (3) abandoned the property; or
new text end

new text begin (4) fled the jurisdiction.
new text end

new text begin (b) The defendant's death does not preclude the defendant's heir or legatee from filing
a claim for the seized property as a secured interest holder under subdivision 22 or an
innocent owner under subdivision 23.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 21. new text end

new text begin Proportionality. new text end

new text begin (a) The defendant may petition the court to determine whether
the forfeiture is unconstitutionally excessive under the state or federal constitution.
new text end

new text begin (b) At the court's discretion, the court may hold a proportionality hearing:
new text end

new text begin (1) as a separate hearing;
new text end

new text begin (2) at the same time as a probable-cause determination, a postarraignment hearing, an
omnibus hearing, or other pretrial hearing;
new text end

new text begin (3) at trial; or
new text end

new text begin (4) upon conviction.
new text end

new text begin (c) The defendant has the burden of establishing that the forfeiture is unconstitutionally
excessive by a preponderance of the evidence at a hearing conducted by the court without
a jury.
new text end

new text begin (d) At a hearing prior to conviction, as allowed by paragraph (b), clauses (1) to (3), the
court first shall determine, by a preponderance of the evidence, if the prosecuting attorney
will secure a conviction. The court then shall determine if the forfeiture is unconstitutionally
excessive.
new text end

new text begin (e) At any hearing, as allowed by paragraph (b), the court may consider all relevant
factors to determine unconstitutional excessiveness, including:
new text end

new text begin (1) the seriousness of the crime and the crime's impact on the community, including the
duration of the activity, use of a firearm, and harm caused by the defendant;
new text end

new text begin (2) the extent to which the defendant participated in the crime;
new text end

new text begin (3) the extent to which the property was integral to facilitating the crime;
new text end

new text begin (4) the sentence to be imposed for committing the crime;
new text end

new text begin (5) whether the crime was completed or attempted;
new text end

new text begin (6) the hardship to the defendant if the forfeiture of a motor vehicle is realized and
whether the forfeiture would deprive the defendant of the defendant's livelihood; and
new text end

new text begin (7) the unjust hardship to the defendant's family if the property is forfeited.
new text end

new text begin (f) In determining the value of the instrumentality subject to forfeiture, the court may
consider all relevant factors related to the fair market value of the property, including
information in publications advised by the prosecuting authority in subdivision 11.
new text end

new text begin (g) The court may not consider the benefit or value of the property to the state in
determining whether the forfeiture is unconstitutionally excessive.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 22. new text end

new text begin Secured interest holder. new text end

new text begin (a) Property encumbered by a security interest shall
not be forfeited.
new text end

new text begin (b) The prosecuting authority summarily shall return property to a secured interest holder,
other than the defendant or an innocent owner, up to the value of the interest. Contraband
shall not be returned.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the property is not summarily returned, the secured interest holder may petition
the court at any time before the court enters judgment in the criminal prosecution or grants
the motion described in subdivision 20.
new text end

new text begin (d) The court shall hear the petition within 30 days after its filing or at the court's
discretion. The hearing shall be held before the court without a jury. The court may
consolidate the hearing on the petition with any other hearing before the court in the case.
new text end

new text begin (e) The secured interest holder must establish by clear and convincing evidence the
validity of the security interest, mortgage, lien, leasehold, lease, rental agreement, or other
agreement.
new text end

new text begin (f) If the secured interest holder alleges a valid interest but the prosecuting authority
seeks to proceed, the prosecuting authority shall prove by clear and convincing evidence
that:
new text end

new text begin (1) the interest is invalid;
new text end

new text begin (2) the interest resulted from a fraudulent conveyance;
new text end

new text begin (3) the interest is held through a straw purchase, trust, or otherwise for the benefit of the
defendant; or
new text end

new text begin (4) the secured interest holder consented to the use of the property in the crime for which
the defendant is charged.
new text end

new text begin (g) If the state fails to meet its burden in paragraph (f), the court shall order the state to
relinquish claims to the property, up to the value of the interest, and return the interest to
the secured interest holder.
new text end

new text begin (h) Notwithstanding paragraph (g), the court may impose reasonable conditions on the
return of the property, including the use of photographic evidence, to preserve the property
for later use as evidence in proceedings under this chapter.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 23. new text end

new text begin Innocent owner. new text end

new text begin (a) Property of an innocent owner shall not be forfeited.
new text end

new text begin (b) The prosecuting authority summarily shall return property to an innocent owner.
Contraband shall not be returned.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the property is not summarily returned, an innocent owner claimant may petition
the court at any time before the court enters judgment in the criminal prosecution or grants
the motion in subdivision 20.
new text end

new text begin (d) The innocent owner claimant may petition the court by filing a simple statement that
sets forth:
new text end

new text begin (1) the claimant's right, title, interest in, or regular use of the property;
new text end

new text begin (2) the time and circumstances of the claimant's acquisition of the interest in the property;
new text end

new text begin (3) additional facts supporting the claimant's claim;
new text end

new text begin (4) the relief sought by the claimant; and
new text end

new text begin (5) the seizure receipt number in subdivision 10, if available.
new text end

new text begin (e) The filing fee for the statement under this subdivision is waived.
new text end

new text begin (f) The court shall hear the petition within 30 days after the petition is filed or at the
court's discretion. The hearing shall be held before the court without a jury. The court may
consolidate the hearing on the petition with any other hearing before the court in the case.
new text end

new text begin (g) The claimant shall establish by clear and convincing evidence the validity of the
interest in or regular use of the property.
new text end

new text begin (h) If paragraph (g) is satisfied and the prosecuting authority seeks to proceed, the
prosecuting authority shall prove by clear and convincing evidence that the claimant is not
an innocent owner because:
new text end

new text begin (1) the claimant's interest in the property is invalid;
new text end

new text begin (2) the claimant did not regularly use the property as the claimant claimed;
new text end

new text begin (3) the claimant was willfully blind to the crime for which the defendant is charged;
new text end

new text begin (4) the claimant was not a bona fide purchaser without notice of any defect in title and
for valuable consideration;
new text end

new text begin (5) the claimant had actual knowledge that the property was used in or derived directly
from the crime for which the defendant is charged; or
new text end

new text begin (6) if the claimant had actual knowledge, the claimant did not take reasonable steps to
prevent the use of the property in the crime for which the defendant is charged. The claimant
is not required to take steps the claimant reasonably believes likely would subject the
claimant to physical danger.
new text end

new text begin (i) If the prosecuting authority fails to meet its burden in paragraph (h), the court shall
order the state to relinquish all claims and return the property to the innocent owner.
new text end

new text begin (j) Notwithstanding paragraph (i), the court may impose reasonable conditions on the
return of the property, including the use of photographic evidence, to preserve the property
for later use as evidence in proceedings under this chapter.
new text end

new text begin (k) No information in the claimant's statement in paragraph (d) shall be used as evidence
in the criminal portion of the case.
new text end

new text begin (l) Nothing in this subdivision prohibits the claimant from providing information to any
party or testifying in any trial as to facts the claimant knows.
new text end

new text begin (m) The defendant or convicted offender may invoke the right against self-incrimination
or the marital privilege during the forfeiture proceeding. The trier of fact may draw an
adverse inference from the invocation of the right or privilege.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 24. new text end

new text begin Judgment. new text end

new text begin (a) If the prosecuting authority fails to meet its burden in the
criminal or forfeiture proceeding, the court shall enter judgment dismissing the forfeiture
proceeding and ordering the return of property to the rightful owner, unless the owner's
possession of the property is illegal.
new text end

new text begin (b) If the prosecuting authority meets its burden in the criminal and forfeiture proceeding,
the court shall enter judgment forfeiting the property.
new text end

new text begin (c) A court may enter judgment following a hearing, pursuant to a stipulation or plea
agreement, or at the court's discretion.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 25. new text end

new text begin Substitution of assets. new text end

new text begin Upon the prosecuting authority's motion following
conviction or at the court's discretion, the court may order the forfeiture of substitute property
owned solely by the defendant up to the value of property that is beyond the court's
jurisdiction or cannot be located through due diligence, only if the state proves by a
preponderance of the evidence that the defendant intentionally:
new text end

new text begin (1) dissipated the property;
new text end

new text begin (2) transferred, sold, or deposited the property with a third party to avoid forfeiture;
new text end

new text begin (3) substantially diminished the value of the property; or
new text end

new text begin (4) commingled the property with other property that cannot be divided without difficulty.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 26. new text end

new text begin No additional remedies. new text end

new text begin The state may not seek personal money judgments
or other remedies related to the forfeiture of property not provided for in this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 27. new text end

new text begin No joint and several liability. new text end

new text begin A defendant is not jointly and severally liable
for forfeiture awards owed by other defendants. When ownership is unclear, a court may
order each defendant to forfeit property on a pro rata basis or by another means the court
finds equitable.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 28. new text end

new text begin Appeals. new text end

new text begin (a) A party to a forfeiture proceeding, other than the defendant, may
appeal the court's order concerning the disposition of the property upon the issuance of the
order according to the state's rules of procedure and court rules.
new text end

new text begin (b) The defendant may appeal the court's decision regarding the seizure or forfeiture of
property following final judgment in the forfeiture proceeding.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 29. new text end

new text begin Attorney fees. new text end

new text begin In any proceeding in which a property owner's claims prevail
by recovering at least half, by value, of the property or currency claimed, the seizing agency
shall be liable for:
new text end

new text begin (1) reasonable attorney fees and other litigation costs incurred by the claimant;
new text end

new text begin (2) postjudgment interest; and
new text end

new text begin (3) in cases involving currency, other negotiable instruments, or the proceeds of an
interlocutory sale, any interest actually paid from the date of seizure.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 30. new text end

new text begin Return of property; damages and costs. new text end

new text begin (a) If the court orders the return of
property, the law enforcement agency that holds the property shall return the property to
the rightful owner within a reasonable period not to exceed five days after the date of the
order.
new text end

new text begin (b) The rightful owner shall not be subject to any expenses related to towing, storage,
or preservation of the property.
new text end

new text begin (c) The law enforcement agency that holds the property is responsible for any damages,
storage fees, and related costs applicable to property returned under this subdivision.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 31. new text end

new text begin Disposition of property and proceeds. new text end

new text begin (a) At any time when contraband is
no longer needed as evidence, the court may order it to be destroyed pursuant to state law.
new text end

new text begin (b) At any time when abandoned property or property seized from a defendant who is
dead, is deported by the United States government, or flees the jurisdiction as proven by
subdivision 20 is no longer needed as evidence, the court may order it to be sold.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the forfeiture is granted, the court shall order the sale of forfeited property other
than currency.
new text end

new text begin (d) If forfeiture is granted, the court may order forfeited currency and the proceeds from
the sale of forfeited property other than currency to:
new text end

new text begin (1) pay restitution to the victim related to the underlying criminal offense;
new text end

new text begin (2) satisfy recorded liens, mortgages, or filed security interests in the forfeited property;
new text end

new text begin (3) pay reasonable costs for the towing, storage, maintenance, repair, and other operating
costs related to the property used in the underlying criminal offense;
new text end

new text begin (4) reimburse the seizing law enforcement agency for nonpersonnel operating costs,
including controlled-drug buy money, related to the investigation of the underlying criminal
offense; and
new text end

new text begin (5) reimburse the prosecuting authority, public defender, or court-appointed attorney
for nonpersonnel court costs, including filing fees, subpoenas, court reporters, and transcripts.
new text end

new text begin (e) After disbursements under paragraph (d), the court may order the remaining funds
be disbursed equally to:
new text end

new text begin (1) the state's general fund; and
new text end

new text begin (2) the Department of Public Safety's Office of Justice Programs for statewide grant
programs.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 32. new text end

new text begin Sale restrictions. new text end

new text begin No law enforcement agency may sell forfeited property
directly or indirectly to any employee of the law enforcement agency, to a person related
to an employee within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity, or to another law
enforcement agency.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 33. new text end

new text begin Limitation on federal adoption. new text end

new text begin (a) A law enforcement agency shall not
offer for adoption property that was seized under state law to a federal agency for the purpose
of forfeiture under the federal Controlled Substances Act, Public Law 91-513, or other
federal law.
new text end

new text begin (b) Paragraph (a) only applies to a seizure by state or local law enforcement agencies
pursuant to that agency's own authority under state law and without involvement of the
federal government. Nothing in paragraph (a) shall be construed to limit state and local
agencies from participating in joint task forces with the federal government.
new text end

new text begin (c) State and local law enforcement are prohibited from accepting payment of any kind
or distribution of forfeiture proceeds from the federal government if the state or local law
enforcement agency violates paragraph (a). All proceeds must be directed to the state's
general fund.
new text end

new text begin (d) Nothing in paragraph (a) or (b) shall be construed to prohibit the federal government,
acting alone, from seizing property and seeking forfeiture under federal law.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 34. new text end

new text begin Guidance. new text end

new text begin The attorney general, after consulting with the responsible United
States attorney, shall establish guidelines for joint task forces and multijurisdictional
collaboration. The guidelines shall (1) be consistent with federal safeguards to ensure that
activities are conducted in compliance with the United States Department of Justice's policies
and (2) minimize the unjust circumvention of this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 35. new text end

new text begin Exception. new text end

new text begin The provisions of this section do not apply to forfeiture proceedings
under chapter 84.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 36. new text end

new text begin Preemption. new text end

new text begin This section preempts laws by township, municipal, county, and
other governments in the state that regulate civil and criminal forfeiture.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 37. new text end

new text begin Subsequent unlawful use of seized vehicle; immunity. new text end

new text begin An appropriate
agency or prosecuting authority, including but not limited to any peace officer as defined
in section 626.84, subdivision 1, paragraph (c); prosecutor; or employee of an appropriate
agency or prosecuting authority who, in good faith and within the course and scope of the
official duties of the person or entity, returns a vehicle seized under this section to the owner
pursuant to this section shall be immune from criminal or civil liability regarding any event
arising out of the subsequent unlawful or unauthorized use of the vehicle.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2025.
new text end

ARTICLE 2

CONFORMING CHANGES

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 145.4716, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Duties of director.

The director of child sex trafficking prevention is responsible
for the following:

(1) developing and providing comprehensive training on sexual exploitation of youth
for social service professionals, medical professionals, public health workers, and criminal
justice professionals;

(2) collecting, organizing, maintaining, and disseminating information on sexual
exploitation and services across the state, including maintaining a list of resources on the
Department of Health website;

(3) monitoring and applying for federal funding for antitrafficking efforts that may
benefit victims in the state;

(4) managing grant programs established under sections 145.4716 to 145.4718 deleted text begin ; deleted text end new text begin and new text end
609.3241, paragraph (c), clause (3); deleted text begin and 609.5315, subdivision 5c, clause (3);
deleted text end

(5) managing the request for proposals for grants for comprehensive services, including
trauma-informed, culturally specific services;

(6) identifying best practices in serving sexually exploited youth, as defined in section
260C.007, subdivision 31;

(7) providing oversight of and technical support to regional navigators pursuant to section
145.4717;

(8) conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the statewide program for safe harbor of
sexually exploited youth; and

(9) developing a policy consistent with the requirements of chapter 13 for sharing data
related to sexually exploited youth, as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 31, among
regional navigators and community-based advocates.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 289A.14, is amended to read:

289A.14 USE OF AUTOMATED SALES SUPPRESSION DEVICES;
DEFINITIONS.

(a) For the purposes of sections 289A.60, subdivision 32, new text begin and new text end 289A.63, subdivision 12,
deleted text begin and 609.5316, subdivision 3, deleted text end the following terms have the meanings given.

(b) "Automated sales suppression device" or "zapper" means a software program, carried
on any tangible medium, or accessed through any other means, that falsifies the electronic
records of electronic cash registers and other point-of-sale systems including, but not limited
to, transaction data and transaction reports.

(c) "Electronic cash register" means a device that keeps a register or supporting documents
through the means of an electronic device or computer system designed to record transaction
data for the purpose of computing, compiling, or processing retail sales transaction data in
whatever manner.

(d) "Phantom-ware" means hidden preinstalled or later-installed programming option
embedded in the operating system of an electronic cash register or hardwired into the
electronic cash register that can be used to create a virtual second electronic cash register
or may eliminate or manipulate transaction records that may or may not be preserved in
digital formats to represent the true or manipulated record of transactions in the electronic
cash register.

(e) "Transaction data" includes items purchased by a customer, the price of each item,
the taxability determination for each item, a segregated tax amount for each of the taxed
items, the date and time of the purchase, the name, address, and identification number of
the vendor, and the receipt or invoice number of the transaction.

(f) "Transaction report" means a report documenting, but not limited to, the sales, taxes
collected, media totals, and discount voids at an electronic cash register that is printed on
cash register tape at the end of a day or shift, or a report documenting every action at an
electronic cash register that is stored electronically.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 299A.681, subdivision 11, is amended to read:

Subd. 11.

Forfeiture.

Property seized by the task force is subject to forfeiture deleted text begin pursuant
to sections 609.531, 609.5312, 609.5313, and 609.5315 if ownership cannot be established.
The task force shall receive the proceeds from the sale of all property properly seized and
forfeited deleted text end new text begin under section 609.112 new text end .

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2023 Supplement, section 609.5316, subdivision 1, is amended
to read:

Subdivision 1.

Contraband.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, if the
property is contraband, the property must be summarily forfeited and either destroyed or
used by the appropriate agency for law enforcement purposes. Upon summary forfeiture,
weapons used must be destroyed by the appropriate agency unless the agency decides to
use the weapons for law enforcement purposes or sell the weapons in a commercially
reasonable manner to federally licensed firearms dealers, as defined in section 624.7161,
subdivision 1. If a weapon is sold under this subdivision, the proceeds must be distributed
under section deleted text begin 609.5315, subdivision 5 or 5b deleted text end new text begin 609.112, subdivision 31 new text end .

(b) If the contraband property is a catalytic converter, the appropriate agency shall sell
it to a scrap metal dealer or other business that may lawfully possess it under section 325E.21.
The agency shall make reasonable efforts to determine whether the person from whom it
was stolen can be identified. If able to do this, the agency shall forward the proceeds to that
person. If unable to do this, the deleted text begin agency may keep 70 percent of the proceeds from the sale
and forward the remaining 30 percent to the prosecutorial office that prosecuted the case
resulting in the forfeiture deleted text end new text begin proceeds must be distributed under section 609.112, subdivision
31 new text end . If the catalytic converter is not marked as required in section 325E.21, the agency shall
mark it in a permanent manner, including but not limited to an engraving or permanent ink,
indicating that the converter is recovered contraband.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 609.66, subdivision 1d, is amended to read:

Subd. 1d.

Possession on school property; penalty.

(a) Except as provided under
paragraphs (d) and (f), whoever possesses, stores, or keeps a dangerous weapon while
knowingly on school property is guilty of a felony and may be sentenced to imprisonment
for not more than five years or to payment of a fine of not more than $10,000, or both.

(b) Whoever uses or brandishes a replica firearm or a BB gun while knowingly on school
property is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.

(c) Whoever possesses, stores, or keeps a replica firearm or a BB gun while knowingly
on school property is guilty of a misdemeanor.

(d) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), (b), or (c), it is a misdemeanor for a person authorized
to carry a firearm under the provisions of a permit or otherwise to carry a firearm on or
about the person's clothes or person in a location the person knows is school property.
Notwithstanding deleted text begin section 609.531 deleted text end new text begin any law to the contrary new text end , a firearm carried in violation of
this paragraph is not subject to forfeiture.

(e) As used in this subdivision:

(1) "BB gun" means a device that fires or ejects a shot measuring .18 of an inch or less
in diameter;

(2) "dangerous weapon" has the meaning given it in section 609.02, subdivision 6;

(3) "replica firearm" has the meaning given it in section 609.713; and

(4) "school property" means:

(i) a public or private elementary, middle, or secondary school building and its improved
grounds, whether leased or owned by the school;

(ii) a child care center licensed under chapter 245A during the period children are present
and participating in a child care program;

(iii) the area within a school bus when that bus is being used by a school to transport
one or more elementary, middle, or secondary school students to and from school-related
activities, including curricular, cocurricular, noncurricular, extracurricular, and supplementary
activities; and

(iv) that portion of a building or facility under the temporary, exclusive control of a
public or private school, a school district, or an association of such entities where conspicuous
signs are prominently posted at each entrance that give actual notice to persons of the
school-related use.

(f) This subdivision does not apply to:

(1) active licensed peace officers;

(2) military personnel or students participating in military training, who are on-duty,
performing official duties;

(3) persons authorized to carry a pistol under section 624.714 while in a motor vehicle
or outside of a motor vehicle to directly place a firearm in, or retrieve it from, the trunk or
rear area of the vehicle;

(4) persons who keep or store in a motor vehicle pistols in accordance with section
624.714 or 624.715 or other firearms in accordance with section 97B.045;

(5) firearm safety or marksmanship courses or activities conducted on school property;

(6) possession of dangerous weapons, BB guns, or replica firearms by a ceremonial
color guard;

(7) a gun or knife show held on school property;

(8) possession of dangerous weapons, BB guns, or replica firearms with written
permission of the principal or other person having general control and supervision of the
school or the director of a child care center; or

(9) persons who are on unimproved property owned or leased by a child care center,
school, or school district unless the person knows that a student is currently present on the
land for a school-related activity.

(g) Notwithstanding section 471.634, a school district or other entity composed
exclusively of school districts may not regulate firearms, ammunition, or their respective
components, when possessed or carried by nonstudents or nonemployees, in a manner that
is inconsistent with this subdivision.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 609.762, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Seizure.

new text begin Forfeiture of new text end property deleted text begin subject to forfeiture under deleted text end new text begin identified in new text end
subdivision 1 deleted text begin may be seized by any law enforcement agency upon process issued by any
court having jurisdiction over the property deleted text end new text begin must be made pursuant to section 609.112 new text end .
deleted text begin Seizure without process may be made if:
deleted text end

deleted text begin (1) the seizure is incident to an arrest or a search under a search warrant;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) the property subject to seizure has been the subject of a prior judgment in favor of
the state in a criminal injunction or forfeiture proceeding; or
deleted text end

deleted text begin (3) the law enforcement agency has probable cause to believe that the property was used
or is intended to be used in a gambling violation and the delay occasioned by the necessity
to obtain process would result in the removal, loss, or destruction of the property.
deleted text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 611.32, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Proceedings at time of apprehension or arrest.

Following the apprehension
or arrest of a person disabled in communication for an alleged violation of a criminal law,
the arresting officer, sheriff or other law enforcement official shall immediately make
necessary contacts to obtain a qualified interpreter and shall obtain an interpreter at the
earliest possible time at the place of detention. A law enforcement officer shall, with the
assistance of the interpreter, explain to the person disabled in communication, all charges
filed against the person, and all procedures relating to the person's detainment and release.
If the property of a person is seized under section deleted text begin 609.531, subdivision 4 deleted text end new text begin 609.112 new text end , the seizing
officer, sheriff, or other law enforcement official shall, upon request, make available to the
person at the earliest possible time a qualified interpreter to assist the person in understanding
the possible consequences of the seizure and the person's right to judicial review. deleted text begin If the
seizure is governed by section 609.5314, subdivision 2, a request for an interpreter must be
made within 15 days after service of the notice of seizure and forfeiture. For a person who
requests an interpreter under this section because of a seizure of property under section
609.5314, the 60 days for filing a demand for a judicial determination of a forfeiture begins
when the interpreter is provided. deleted text end The interpreter shall also assist the person with all other
communications, including communications relating to needed medical attention. Prior to
interrogating or taking the statement of the person disabled in communication, the arresting
officer, sheriff, or other law enforcement official shall make available to the person a
qualified interpreter to assist the person throughout the interrogation or taking of a statement.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 629.715, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Surrender of firearms.

The judge may order as a condition of release that the
person surrender to the local law enforcement agency all firearms, destructive devices, or
dangerous weapons owned or possessed by the person, and may not live in a residence
where others possess firearms. Any firearm, destructive device, or dangerous weapon
surrendered under this subdivision shall be inventoried and retained, with due care to preserve
its quality and function, by the local law enforcement agency, and must be returned to the
person upon the person's acquittal, when charges are dismissed, or if no charges are filed.
If the person is convicted, the firearm must be returned when the court orders the return or
when the person is discharged from probation and restored to civil rights. If the person is
convicted of deleted text begin a designated deleted text end new text begin an new text end offense deleted text begin as defined in section 609.531, deleted text end new text begin under which new text end the firearm
new text begin is subject to forfeiture, the firearm new text end is subject to forfeiture as provided under deleted text begin that deleted text end section new text begin
609.112 new text end . This condition may be imposed in addition to any other condition authorized by
rule 6.02 of the Rules of Criminal Procedure.

Sec. 9. new text begin REVISOR INSTRUCTION.
new text end

new text begin (a) The revisor of statutes shall make changes to statutory cross-references and other
nonsubstantive changes to statute including grammatical changes necessitated by article 1
and section 10.
new text end

new text begin (b) The revisor of statutes shall renumber Minnesota Statutes, section 609.5315,
subdivision 6, as Minnesota Statutes, section 609.1121, and Minnesota Statutes, section
609.5316, as Minnesota Statutes, section 609.1122, and make any necessary changes to
statutory cross-references to reflect these changes.
new text end

Sec. 10. new text begin REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin (a) new text end new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2022, sections 609.531, subdivisions 1a, 4, 5, 5a, 6a, 7, 8, and
9; 609.5311, subdivisions 2, 3, and 4; 609.5312; 609.5313; 609.5314, subdivisions 1a and
2; 609.5315, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 5b, 5c, and 7; 609.5318; 609.5319; and 609.762,
subdivisions 3, 4, 5, and 6, new text end new text begin are repealed.
new text end

new text begin (b) new text end new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2023 Supplement, sections 609.531, subdivision 1; 609.5311,
subdivision 1; and 609.5314, subdivisions 1 and 3, new text end new text begin are repealed.
new text end

Sec. 11. new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE.
new text end

new text begin This article is effective July 1, 2025.
new text end

APPENDIX

Repealed Minnesota Statutes: 24-07382

609.531 FORFEITURES.

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

For the purpose of sections 609.531 to 609.5318, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(a) "Conveyance device" means a device used for transportation and includes, but is not limited to, a motor vehicle, trailer, snowmobile, airplane, and vessel and any equipment attached to it. The term "conveyance device" does not include property which is, in fact, itself stolen or taken in violation of the law.

(b) "Weapon used" means a dangerous weapon as defined under section 609.02, subdivision 6, that the actor used or had in possession in furtherance of a crime.

(c) "Property" means property as defined in section 609.52, subdivision 1, clause (1).

(d) "Contraband" means property which is illegal to possess under Minnesota law.

(e) "Appropriate agency" means the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Department of Commerce Fraud Bureau, the Minnesota Division of Driver and Vehicle Services, the Minnesota State Patrol, a county sheriff's department, the Three Rivers Park District Department of Public Safety, the Department of Natural Resources Division of Enforcement, the University of Minnesota Police Department, the Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit, a city, metropolitan transit, or airport police department; or a multijurisdictional entity established under section 299A.642 or 299A.681.

(f) "Designated offense" includes:

(1) for weapons used: any violation of this chapter, chapter 152 or 624;

(2) for driver's license or identification card transactions: any violation of section 171.22; and

(3) for all other purposes: a felony violation of, or a felony-level attempt or conspiracy to violate, section 325E.17; 325E.18; 609.185; 609.19; 609.195; 609.2112; 609.2113; 609.2114; 609.221; 609.222; 609.223; 609.2231; 609.2335; 609.24; 609.245; 609.247; 609.25; 609.255; 609.282; 609.283; 609.322; 609.342, subdivision 1, or subdivision 1a, clauses (a) to (f) and (i); 609.343, subdivision 1, or subdivision 1a, clauses (a) to (f) and (i); 609.344, subdivision 1, or subdivision 1a, clauses (a) to (e), (h), or (i); 609.345, subdivision 1, or subdivision 1a, clauses (a) to (e), (h), and (i); 609.352; 609.42; 609.425; 609.466; 609.485; 609.487; 609.52; 609.525; 609.527; 609.528; 609.53; 609.54; 609.551; 609.561; 609.562; 609.563; 609.582; 609.59; 609.595; 609.611; 609.631; 609.66, subdivision 1e; 609.671, subdivisions 3, 4, 5, 8, and 12; 609.687; 609.821; 609.825; 609.86; 609.88; 609.89; 609.893; 609.895; 617.246; 617.247; or a gross misdemeanor or felony violation of section 609.891 or 624.7181; or any violation of section 609.324; or a felony violation of, or a felony-level attempt or conspiracy to violate, Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 609.21.

(g) "Controlled substance" has the meaning given in section 152.01, subdivision 4.

(h) "Prosecuting authority" means the attorney who is responsible for prosecuting an offense that is the basis for a forfeiture under sections 609.531 to 609.5318.

(i) "Asserting person" means a person, other than the driver alleged to have used a vehicle in the transportation or exchange of a controlled substance intended for distribution or sale, claiming an ownership interest in a vehicle that has been seized or restrained under this section.

Subd. 1a.

Construction.

Sections 609.531 to 609.5318 must be liberally construed to carry out the following remedial purposes:

(1) to enforce the law;

(2) to deter crime;

(3) to reduce the economic incentive to engage in criminal enterprise;

(4) to increase the pecuniary loss resulting from the detection of criminal activity; and

(5) to forfeit property unlawfully used or acquired and divert the property to law enforcement purposes.

Subd. 4.

Seizure.

(a) Property subject to forfeiture under sections 609.531 to 609.5318 may be seized by the appropriate agency upon process issued by any court having jurisdiction over the property. Property may be seized without process if:

(1) the seizure is incident to a lawful arrest or a lawful search;

(2) the property subject to seizure has been the subject of a prior judgment in favor of the state in a criminal injunction or forfeiture proceeding under this chapter; or

(3) the appropriate agency has probable cause to believe that the delay occasioned by the necessity to obtain process would result in the removal or destruction of the property and that:

(i) the property was used or is intended to be used in commission of a felony; or

(ii) the property is dangerous to health or safety.

If property is seized without process under item (i), the prosecuting authority must institute a forfeiture action under section 609.5313 as soon as is reasonably possible.

(b) When property is seized, the officer must provide a receipt to the person found in possession of the property; or in the absence of any person, the officer must leave a receipt in the place where the property was found, if reasonably possible.

Subd. 5.

Right to possession vests immediately; custody of seized property.

All right, title, and interest in property subject to forfeiture under sections 609.531 to 609.5318 vests in the appropriate agency upon commission of the act or omission giving rise to the forfeiture. Any property seized under sections 609.531 to 609.5318 is not subject to replevin, but is deemed to be in the custody of the appropriate agency subject to the orders and decrees of the court having jurisdiction over the forfeiture proceedings. When property is so seized, the appropriate agency shall use reasonable diligence to secure the property and prevent waste and may do any of the following:

(1) place the property under seal;

(2) remove the property to a place designated by it; and

(3) in the case of controlled substances, require the state Board of Pharmacy to take custody of the property and remove it to an appropriate location for disposition in accordance with law.

Subd. 5a.

Bond by owner for possession.

(a) If the owner of property that has been seized under sections 609.531 to 609.5318 seeks possession of the property before the forfeiture action is determined, the owner may give security or post bond payable to the appropriate agency in an amount equal to the retail value of the seized property. On posting the security or bond, the seized property must be returned to the owner and the forfeiture action shall proceed against the security as if it were the seized property. This subdivision does not apply to contraband property or property being held for investigatory purposes.

(b) If the owner of a motor vehicle that has been seized under this section seeks possession of the vehicle before the forfeiture action is determined, the owner may surrender the vehicle's certificate of title in exchange for the vehicle. The motor vehicle must be returned to the owner within 24 hours if the owner surrenders the motor vehicle's certificate of title to the appropriate agency, pending resolution of the forfeiture action. If the certificate is surrendered, the owner may not be ordered to post security or bond as a condition of release of the vehicle. When a certificate of title is surrendered under this provision, the agency shall notify the Department of Public Safety and any secured party noted on the certificate. The agency shall also notify the department and the secured party when it returns a surrendered title to the motor vehicle owner.

Subd. 6a.

Forfeiture a civil procedure; conviction required.

(a) An action for forfeiture is a civil in rem action and is independent of any criminal prosecution, except as provided in this subdivision.

(b) An asset is subject to forfeiture by judicial determination under sections 609.5311 to 609.5318 only if:

(1) a person is convicted of the criminal offense related to the action for forfeiture; or

(2) a person is not charged with a criminal offense under chapter 152 related to the action for forfeiture based in whole or in part on the person's agreement to provide information regarding the criminal activity of another person.

For purposes of clause (1), an admission of guilt to an offense chargeable under chapter 152, a sentence under section 152.152, a stay of adjudication under section 152.18, or a referral to a diversion program for an offense chargeable under chapter 152 is considered a conviction.

(c) The appropriate agency handling the judicial forfeiture may introduce into evidence in the judicial forfeiture case in civil court the agreement in paragraph (b), clause (2).

(d) The appropriate agency handling the judicial forfeiture bears the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that the property is an instrument or represents the proceeds of the underlying offense.

Subd. 7.

Petition for remission or mitigation.

Prior to the entry of a court order disposing with the forfeiture action, any person who has an interest in forfeited property may file with the prosecuting authority a petition for remission or mitigation of the forfeiture. The prosecuting authority may remit or mitigate the forfeiture upon terms and conditions the prosecuting authority deems reasonable if the prosecuting authority finds that: (1) the forfeiture was incurred without willful negligence or without any intention on the part of the petitioner to violate the law; or (2) extenuating circumstances justify the remission or mitigation of the forfeiture.

Subd. 8.

Forfeiture policies; statewide model policy required.

(a) By December 1, 2010, the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, after consulting with the Minnesota County Attorneys Association, the Minnesota Sheriffs' Association, the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association, and the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, shall develop a model policy that articulates best practices for forfeiture and is designed to encourage the uniform application of forfeiture laws statewide. At a minimum, the policy shall address the following:

(1) best practices in pursuing, seizing, and tracking forfeitures;

(2) type and frequency of training for law enforcement on forfeiture laws; and

(3) situations in which forfeitures should not be pursued.

(b) By December 1, 2010, the Minnesota County Attorneys Association, after consulting with the attorney general, the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, the Minnesota Sheriffs' Association, the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association, and the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, shall develop a model policy that articulates best practices for forfeiture and is designed to encourage the uniform application of forfeiture laws statewide. At a minimum, the policy shall address the following:

(1) statutory role of prosecuting authorities in forfeiture procedures;

(2) best practices for timely and fair resolution of forfeiture cases;

(3) type and frequency of training for prosecuting authorities on forfeiture laws; and

(4) situations in which forfeitures should not be pursued.

(c) By December 1, 2010, the Minnesota County Attorneys Association and the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board shall forward an electronic copy of its respective model policy to the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house of representatives committees having jurisdiction over criminal justice and civil law policy.

(d) By March 1, 2011, the chief law enforcement officer of every state and local law enforcement agency and every prosecution office in the state shall adopt and implement a written policy on forfeiture that is identical or substantially similar to the model policies developed under paragraphs (a) and (b). The written policy shall be made available to the public upon request.

Subd. 9.

Transfer of forfeitable property to federal government.

The appropriate agency shall not directly or indirectly transfer property subject to forfeiture under sections 609.531 to 609.5318 to a federal agency for adoption if the forfeiture would be prohibited under state law.

609.5311 FORFEITURE OF PROPERTY ASSOCIATED WITH CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.

Subdivision 1.

Controlled substances.

All controlled substances that were manufactured, distributed, dispensed, or acquired in violation of chapter 152 or 342 are subject to forfeiture under this section, except as provided in subdivision 3 and section 609.5316.

Subd. 2.

Associated property.

(a) All personal property and real property, other than homestead property exempt from seizure under section 510.01, that is an instrument or represents the proceeds of a controlled substance offense is subject to forfeiture under this section, except as provided in subdivision 3.

(b) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not seize real property for the purposes of forfeiture under paragraph (a).

(c) Money is the property of an appropriate agency and may be seized and recovered by the appropriate agency if:

(1) the money is used by an appropriate agency, or furnished to a person operating on behalf of an appropriate agency, to purchase or attempt to purchase a controlled substance; and

(2) the appropriate agency records the serial number or otherwise marks the money for identification.

As used in this paragraph, "money" means United States currency and coin; the currency and coin of a foreign country; a bank check, cashier's check, or traveler's check; a prepaid credit card; cryptocurrency; or a money order.

Subd. 3.

Limitations on forfeiture of certain property associated with controlled substances.

(a) A conveyance device is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the retail value of the controlled substance is $100 or more and the conveyance device was used in the transportation or exchange of a controlled substance intended for distribution or sale.

(b) Real property is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the retail value of the controlled substance or contraband is $2,000 or more.

(c) Property used by any person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as a common carrier is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the owner of the property is a consenting party to, or is privy to, the use or intended use of the property as described in subdivision 2.

(d) Property is subject to forfeiture under this section only if its owner was privy to the use or intended use described in subdivision 2, or the unlawful use or intended use of the property otherwise occurred with the owner's knowledge or consent.

(e) Forfeiture under this section of a conveyance device or real property encumbered by a bona fide security interest is subject to the interest of the secured party unless the secured party had knowledge of or consented to the act or omission upon which the forfeiture is based. A person claiming a security interest bears the burden of establishing that interest by clear and convincing evidence.

(f) Forfeiture under this section of real property is subject to the interests of a good faith purchaser for value unless the purchaser had knowledge of or consented to the act or omission upon which the forfeiture is based.

(g) Notwithstanding paragraphs (d), (e), and (f), property is not subject to forfeiture based solely on the owner's or secured party's knowledge of the unlawful use or intended use of the property if: (1) the owner or secured party took reasonable steps to terminate use of the property by the offender; or (2) the property is real property owned by the parent of the offender, unless the parent actively participated in, or knowingly acquiesced to, a violation of chapter 152, or the real property constitutes proceeds derived from or traceable to a use described in subdivision 2.

(h) Money is subject to forfeiture under this section only if it has a total value of $1,500 or more or there is probable cause to believe that the money was exchanged for the purchase of a controlled substance. As used in this paragraph, "money" means United States currency and coin; the currency and coin of a foreign country; a bank check, cashier's check, or traveler's check; a prepaid credit card; cryptocurrency; or a money order.

(i) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not seize a conveyance device or real property, for the purposes of forfeiture under paragraphs (a) to (g).

(j) Nothing in this subdivision prohibits the seizure, with or without warrant, of any property or thing for the purpose of being produced as evidence on any trial or for any other lawful purpose.

Subd. 4.

Records; proceeds.

All books, records, and research products and materials, including formulas, microfilm, tapes, and data that are used, or intended for use in the manner described in subdivision 2 are subject to forfeiture.

609.5312 FORFEITURE OF PROPERTY ASSOCIATED WITH DESIGNATED OFFENSES.

Subdivision 1.

Property subject to forfeiture.

(a) All personal property is subject to forfeiture if it was used or intended for use to commit or facilitate the commission of a designated offense. All money and other property, real and personal, that represent proceeds of a designated offense, and all contraband property, are subject to forfeiture, except as provided in this section.

(b) All money used or intended to be used to facilitate the commission of a violation of section 609.322 or 609.324 or a violation of a local ordinance substantially similar to section 609.322 or 609.324 is subject to forfeiture.

(c) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not seize real property for the purposes of forfeiture under paragraph (a).

Subd. 1a.

Computers and related property subject to forfeiture.

(a) As used in this subdivision, "property" has the meaning given in section 609.87, subdivision 6.

(b) When a computer or a component part of a computer is used or intended for use to commit or facilitate the commission of a designated offense, the computer and all software, data, and other property contained in the computer are subject to forfeiture unless prohibited by the Privacy Protection Act, United States Code, title 42, sections 2000aa to 2000aa-12, or other state or federal law.

(c) Regardless of whether a forfeiture action is initiated following the lawful seizure of a computer and related property, if the appropriate agency returns hardware, software, data, or other property to the owner, the agency may charge the owner for the cost of separating contraband from the computer or other property returned, including salary and contract costs. The agency may not charge these costs to an owner of a computer or related property who was not privy to the act or omission upon which the seizure was based, or who did not have knowledge of or consent to the act or omission, if the owner:

(1) requests from the agency copies of specified legitimate data files and provides sufficient storage media; or

(2) requests the return of a computer or other property less data storage devices on which contraband resides.

Subd. 2.

Limitations on forfeiture of property associated with designated offenses.

(a) Property used by a person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as a common carrier is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the owner of the property is a consenting party to, or is privy to, the commission of a designated offense.

(b) Property is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the owner was privy to the act or omission upon which the forfeiture is based, or the act or omission occurred with the owner's knowledge or consent.

(c) Property encumbered by a bona fide security interest is subject to the interest of the secured party unless the party had knowledge of or consented to the act or omission upon which the forfeiture is based. A person claiming a security interest bears the burden of establishing that interest by clear and convincing evidence.

(d) Notwithstanding paragraphs (b) and (c), property is not subject to forfeiture based solely on the owner's or secured party's knowledge of the act or omission upon which the forfeiture is based if the owner or secured party took reasonable steps to terminate use of the property by the offender.

Subd. 3.

Vehicle forfeiture for prostitution offenses.

(a) A motor vehicle is subject to forfeiture under this subdivision if it was used to commit or facilitate, or used during the commission of, a violation of section 609.324 or a violation of a local ordinance substantially similar to section 609.324. A motor vehicle is subject to forfeiture under this subdivision only if the offense is established by proof of a criminal conviction for the offense. Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, a forfeiture under this subdivision is governed by sections 609.531, 609.5312, and 609.5313.

(b) When a motor vehicle subject to forfeiture under this subdivision is seized in advance of a judicial forfeiture order, a hearing before a judge or referee must be held within 96 hours of the seizure. Notice of the hearing must be given to the registered owner within 48 hours of the seizure. The prosecuting authority shall certify to the court, at or in advance of the hearing, that it has filed or intends to file charges against the alleged violator for violating section 609.324 or a local ordinance substantially similar to section 609.324. After conducting the hearing, the court shall order that the motor vehicle be returned to the owner if:

(1) the prosecuting authority has failed to make the certification required by paragraph (b);

(2) the owner of the motor vehicle has demonstrated to the court's satisfaction that the owner has a defense to the forfeiture, including but not limited to the defenses contained in subdivision 2; or

(3) the court determines that seizure of the vehicle creates or would create an undue hardship for members of the owner's family.

(c) If the defendant is acquitted or prostitution charges against the defendant are dismissed, neither the owner nor the defendant is responsible for paying any costs associated with the seizure or storage of the vehicle.

(d) A vehicle leased or rented under section 168.27, subdivision 4, for a period of 180 days or less is not subject to forfeiture under this subdivision.

(e) For purposes of this subdivision, seizure occurs either:

(1) at the date at which personal service of process upon the registered owner is made; or

(2) at the date when the registered owner has been notified by certified mail at the address listed in the Minnesota Department of Public Safety computerized motor vehicle registration records.

(f) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not participate in paragraphs (a) to (e).

Subd. 4.

Vehicle forfeiture for fleeing peace officer.

(a) A motor vehicle is subject to forfeiture under this subdivision if it was used to commit a violation of section 609.487 and endanger life or property. A motor vehicle is subject to forfeiture under this subdivision only if the offense is established by proof of a criminal conviction for the offense. Except as otherwise provided in this subdivision, a forfeiture under this subdivision is governed by sections 609.531, 609.5312, 609.5313, and 609.5315, subdivision 6.

(b) When a motor vehicle subject to forfeiture under this subdivision is seized in advance of a judicial forfeiture order, a hearing before a judge or referee must be held within 96 hours of the seizure. Notice of the hearing must be given to the registered owner within 48 hours of the seizure. The prosecuting authority shall certify to the court, at or in advance of the hearing, that it has filed or intends to file charges against the alleged violator for violating section 609.487. After conducting the hearing, the court shall order that the motor vehicle be returned to the owner if:

(1) the prosecuting authority has failed to make the certification required by this paragraph;

(2) the owner of the motor vehicle has demonstrated to the court's satisfaction that the owner has a defense to the forfeiture, including but not limited to the defenses contained in subdivision 2; or

(3) the court determines that seizure of the vehicle creates or would create an undue hardship for members of the owner's family.

(c) If the defendant is acquitted or the charges against the defendant are dismissed, neither the owner nor the defendant is responsible for paying any costs associated with the seizure or storage of the vehicle.

(d) A vehicle leased or rented under section 168.27, subdivision 4, for a period of 180 days or less is not subject to forfeiture under this subdivision.

(e) A motor vehicle that is an off-road recreational vehicle as defined in section 169A.03, subdivision 16, or a motorboat as defined in section 169A.03, subdivision 13, is not subject to paragraph (b).

(f) For purposes of this subdivision, seizure occurs either:

(1) at the date at which personal service of process upon the registered owner is made; or

(2) at the date when the registered owner has been notified by certified mail at the address listed in the Minnesota Department of Public Safety computerized motor vehicle registration records.

(g) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not seize a motor vehicle for the purposes of forfeiture under paragraphs (a) to (f).

609.5313 FORFEITURE BY JUDICIAL ACTION; PROCEDURE.

(a) The forfeiture of property under sections 609.5311 and 609.5312 is governed by this section. A separate complaint must be filed against the property stating the act, omission, or occurrence giving rise to the forfeiture and the date and place of the act or occurrence. Within 60 days from when the seizure occurs, the prosecuting authority shall notify the owner or possessor of the property of the action, if known or readily ascertainable. The action must be captioned in the name of the prosecuting authority or the prosecuting authority's designee as plaintiff and the property as defendant. Upon motion by the prosecuting authority, a court may extend the time period for sending notice for a period not to exceed 90 days for good cause shown.

(b) If notice is not sent in accordance with paragraph (a), and no time extension is granted or the extension period has expired, the appropriate agency shall return the property to the person from whom the property was seized, if known. An agency's return of property due to lack of proper notice does not restrict the right of the agency to commence a forfeiture proceeding at a later time. The agency shall not be required to return contraband or other property that the person from whom the property was seized may not legally possess.

609.5314 ADMINISTRATIVE FORFEITURE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY SEIZED IN CONNECTION WITH A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES SEIZURE.

Subdivision 1.

Property subject to administrative forfeiture.

(a) The following are subject to administrative forfeiture under this section:

(1) all money totaling $1,500 or more, precious metals, and precious stones that there is probable cause to believe represent the proceeds of a controlled substance offense;

(2) all money found in proximity to controlled substances when there is probable cause to believe that the money was exchanged for the purchase of a controlled substance;

(3) all conveyance devices containing controlled substances with a retail value of $100 or more if there is probable cause to believe that the conveyance device was used in the transportation or exchange of a controlled substance intended for distribution or sale; and

(4) all firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories found:

(i) in a conveyance device used or intended for use to commit or facilitate the commission of a felony offense involving a controlled substance;

(ii) on or in proximity to a person from whom a felony amount of controlled substance is seized; or

(iii) on the premises where a controlled substance is seized and in proximity to the controlled substance, if possession or sale of the controlled substance would be a felony under chapter 152.

(b) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not seize items listed in paragraph (a), clauses (3) and (4), for the purposes of forfeiture.

(c) Money is the property of an appropriate agency and may be seized and recovered by the appropriate agency if:

(1) the money is used by an appropriate agency, or furnished to a person operating on behalf of an appropriate agency, to purchase or attempt to purchase a controlled substance; and

(2) the appropriate agency records the serial number or otherwise marks the money for identification.

(d) As used in this section, "money" means United States currency and coin; the currency and coin of a foreign country; a bank check, cashier's check, or traveler's check; a prepaid credit card; cryptocurrency; or a money order.

(e) As used in this section, "controlled substance" does not include cannabis flower as defined in section 342.01, subdivision 16, cannabis products as defined in section 342.01, subdivision 20, hemp-derived consumer products as defined in section 342.01, subdivision 37, or lower-potency hemp edibles as defined in section 342.01, subdivision 50.

Subd. 1a.

Innocent owner.

(a) Any person, other than the defendant driver, alleged to have used a vehicle in the transportation or exchange of a controlled substance intended for distribution or sale, claiming an ownership interest in a vehicle that has been seized or restrained under this section may assert that right by notifying the prosecuting authority in writing and within 60 days of the service of the notice of seizure.

(b) Upon receipt of notice pursuant to paragraph (a), the prosecuting authority may release the vehicle to the asserting person. If the prosecuting authority proceeds with the forfeiture, the prosecuting authority must, within 30 days, file a separate complaint in the name of the jurisdiction pursuing the forfeiture against the vehicle, describing the vehicle, specifying that the vehicle was used in the transportation or exchange of a controlled substance intended for distribution or sale, and specifying the time and place of the vehicle's unlawful use. The complaint may be filed in district court or conciliation court and the filing fee is waived.

(c) A complaint filed by the prosecuting authority must be served on the asserting person and on any other registered owners. Service may be made by certified mail at the address listed in the Department of Public Safety's computerized motor vehicle registration records or by any means permitted by court rules.

(d) The hearing on the complaint shall, to the extent practicable, be held within 30 days of the filing of the petition. The court may consolidate the hearing on the complaint with a hearing on any other complaint involving a claim of an ownership interest in the same vehicle.

(e) At a hearing held pursuant to this subdivision, the state must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that:

(1) the seizure was incident to a lawful arrest or a lawful search; and

(2) the vehicle was used in the transportation or exchange of a controlled substance intended for distribution or sale.

(f) At a hearing held pursuant to this subdivision, the asserting person must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the asserting person:

(1) has an actual ownership interest in the vehicle; and

(2) did not have actual or constructive knowledge that the vehicle would be used or operated in any manner contrary to law or that the asserting person took reasonable steps to prevent use of the vehicle by the alleged offender.

(g) If the court determines that the state met both burdens under paragraph (e) and the asserting person failed to meet any burden under paragraph (f), the court shall order that the vehicle remains subject to forfeiture under this section.

(h) The court shall order that the vehicle is not subject to forfeiture under this section and shall order the vehicle returned to the asserting person if it determines that:

(1) the state failed to meet any burden under paragraph (e);

(2) the asserting person proved both elements under paragraph (f); or

(3) clauses (1) and (2) apply.

(i) If the court determines that the asserting person is an innocent owner and orders the vehicle returned to the innocent owner, an entity in possession of the vehicle is not required to release the vehicle until the innocent owner pays:

(1) the reasonable costs of the towing, seizure, and storage of the vehicle incurred before the innocent owner provided the notice required under paragraph (a); and

(2) any reasonable costs of storage of the vehicle incurred more than two weeks after an order issued under paragraph (h).

Subd. 2.

Administrative forfeiture procedure.

(a) Forfeiture of property described in subdivision 1 that does not exceed $50,000 in value is governed by this subdivision. Within 60 days from when seizure occurs, all persons known to have an ownership, possessory, or security interest in seized property must be notified of the seizure and the intent to forfeit the property. In the case of a motor vehicle required to be registered under chapter 168, notice mailed by certified mail to the address shown in Department of Public Safety records is deemed sufficient notice to the registered owner. The notification to a person known to have a security interest in seized property required under this paragraph applies only to motor vehicles required to be registered under chapter 168 and only if the security interest is listed on the vehicle's title. Upon motion by the appropriate agency or the prosecuting authority, a court may extend the time period for sending notice for a period not to exceed 90 days for good cause shown.

(b) Notice may otherwise be given in the manner provided by law for service of a summons in a civil action. The notice must be in writing and contain:

(1) a description of the property seized;

(2) the date of seizure; and

(3) notice of the right to obtain judicial review of the forfeiture and of the procedure for obtaining that judicial review, printed in English. This requirement does not preclude the appropriate agency from printing the notice in other languages in addition to English.

Substantially the following language must appear conspicuously in the notice:

"WARNING: If you were the person arrested when the property was seized, you will automatically lose the above-described property and the right to be heard in court if you do not file a lawsuit and serve the prosecuting authority within 60 days. You may file your lawsuit in conciliation court if the property is worth $15,000 or less; otherwise, you must file in district court. You do not have to pay a filing fee for your lawsuit.

WARNING: If you have an ownership interest in the above-described property and were not the person arrested when the property was seized, you will automatically lose the above-described property and the right to be heard in court if you do not notify the prosecuting authority of your interest in writing within 60 days."

(c) If notice is not sent in accordance with paragraph (a), and no time extension is granted or the extension period has expired, the appropriate agency shall return the property to the person from whom the property was seized, if known. An agency's return of property due to lack of proper notice does not restrict the agency's authority to commence a forfeiture proceeding at a later time. The agency shall not be required to return contraband or other property that the person from whom the property was seized may not legally possess.

Subd. 3.

Judicial determination.

(a) Within 60 days following service of a notice of seizure and forfeiture under this section, a claimant may file a demand for a judicial determination of the forfeiture. The demand must be in the form of a civil complaint and must be filed with the court administrator in the county in which the seizure occurred, together with proof of service of a copy of the complaint on the prosecuting authority for that county. The claimant may serve the complaint on the prosecuting authority by certified mail or any means permitted by court rules. If the value of the seized property is $15,000 or less, the claimant may file an action in conciliation court for recovery of the seized property. A copy of the conciliation court statement of claim may be served personally or as permitted by the Rules of Conciliation Court Procedure on the prosecuting authority having jurisdiction over the forfeiture within 60 days following service of the notice of seizure and forfeiture under this subdivision. The claimant does not have to pay the court filing fee. No responsive pleading is required of the prosecuting authority and no court fees may be charged for the prosecuting authority's appearance in the matter. The district court administrator shall schedule the hearing as soon as practicable after, and in any event no later than 90 days following, the conclusion of the criminal prosecution. The proceedings are governed by the Rules of Civil Procedure and, where applicable, by the Rules of Conciliation Court Procedure.

(b) The complaint must be captioned in the name of the claimant as plaintiff and the seized property as defendant, and must state with specificity the grounds on which the claimant alleges the property was improperly seized and the plaintiff's interest in the property seized. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an action for the return of property seized under this section may not be maintained by or on behalf of any person who has been served with a notice of seizure and forfeiture unless the person has complied with this subdivision.

(c) If the claimant makes a timely demand for judicial determination under this subdivision, the appropriate agency must conduct the forfeiture under section 609.531, subdivision 6a. The limitations and defenses set forth in section 609.5311, subdivision 3, apply to the judicial determination.

(d) If a demand for judicial determination of an administrative forfeiture is filed under this subdivision and the court orders the return of the seized property, the court may order sanctions under section 549.211. If the court orders payment of these costs, they must be paid from forfeited money or proceeds from the sale of forfeited property from the appropriate law enforcement and prosecuting agencies in the same proportion as they would be distributed under section 609.5315, subdivision 5.

609.5315 DISPOSITION OF FORFEITED PROPERTY.

Subdivision 1.

Disposition.

(a) Subject to paragraph (b), if the court finds under section 609.5313, 609.5314, or 609.5318 that the property is subject to forfeiture, it shall order the appropriate agency to do one of the following:

(1) unless a different disposition is provided under clause (3) or (4), either destroy firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories that the agency decides not to use for law enforcement purposes under clause (8), or sell them to federally licensed firearms dealers, as defined in section 624.7161, subdivision 1, and distribute the proceeds under subdivision 5 or 5b;

(2) sell property that is not required to be destroyed by law and is not harmful to the public and distribute the proceeds under subdivision 5 or 5b;

(3) sell antique firearms, as defined in section 624.712, subdivision 3, to the public and distribute the proceeds under subdivision 5 or 5b;

(4) destroy or use for law enforcement purposes semiautomatic military-style assault weapons, as defined in section 624.712, subdivision 7;

(5) take custody of the property and remove it for disposition in accordance with law;

(6) forward the property to the federal drug enforcement administration;

(7) disburse money as provided under subdivision 5, 5b, or 5c; or

(8) keep property other than money for official use by the agency and the prosecuting agency.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), the Hennepin or Ramsey County sheriff may not sell firearms, ammunition, or firearms accessories if the policy is disapproved by the applicable county board.

(c) If property is sold under paragraph (a), the appropriate agency shall not sell property to: (1) an officer or employee of the agency that seized the property or to a person related to the officer or employee by blood or marriage; or (2) the prosecuting authority or any individual working in the same office or a person related to the authority or individual by blood or marriage.

(d) Sales of forfeited property under this section must be conducted in a commercially reasonable manner.

Subd. 2.

Disposition of administratively forfeited property.

If property is forfeited administratively under section 609.5314 or 609.5318 and no demand for judicial determination is made, the appropriate agency shall provide the prosecuting authority with a copy of the forfeiture or evidence receipt, the notice of seizure and intent to forfeit, a statement of probable cause for forfeiture of the property, and a description of the property and its estimated value. Upon review and certification by the prosecuting authority that (1) the appropriate agency provided a receipt in accordance with section 609.531, subdivision 4, or 626.16; (2) the appropriate agency served notice in accordance with section 609.5314, subdivision 2, or 609.5318, subdivision 2; and (3) probable cause for forfeiture exists based on the officer's statement, the appropriate agency may dispose of the property in any of the ways listed in subdivision 1.

Subd. 3.

Use by law enforcement.

(a) Property kept under this section may be used only in the performance of official duties of the appropriate agency or prosecuting agency and may not be used for any other purpose. If an appropriate agency keeps a forfeited motor vehicle for official use, it shall make reasonable efforts to ensure that the motor vehicle is available for use and adaptation by the agency's officers who participate in the drug abuse resistance education program.

(b) Proceeds from the sale of property kept under this subdivision must be disbursed as provided in subdivision 5.

Subd. 4.

Distribution of proceeds of the offense.

Property that consists of proceeds derived from or traced to the commission of a designated offense or a violation of section 609.66, subdivision 1e, must be applied first to payment of seizure, storage, forfeiture, and sale expenses, and to satisfy valid liens against the property; and second, to any court-ordered restitution before being disbursed as provided under subdivision 5.

Subd. 5.

Distribution of money.

The money or proceeds from the sale of forfeited property, after payment of seizure, storage, forfeiture, and sale expenses, and satisfaction of valid liens against the property, must be distributed as follows:

(1) 70 percent of the money or proceeds must be forwarded to the appropriate agency for deposit as a supplement to the agency's operating fund or similar fund for use in law enforcement, training, education, crime prevention, equipment, or capital expenses;

(2) 20 percent of the money or proceeds must be forwarded to the prosecuting authority that handled the forfeiture for deposit as a supplement to its operating fund or similar fund for prosecutorial purposes, training, education, crime prevention, equipment, or capital expenses; and

(3) the remaining ten percent of the money or proceeds must be forwarded within 60 days after resolution of the forfeiture to the state treasury and credited to the general fund. Any local police relief association organized under chapter 423 which received or was entitled to receive the proceeds of any sale made under this section before the effective date of Laws 1988, chapter 665, sections 1 to 17, shall continue to receive and retain the proceeds of these sales.

Subd. 5a.

Disposition of certain forfeited proceeds; prostitution.

The proceeds from the sale of motor vehicles forfeited under section 609.5312, subdivision 3, after payment of seizure, storage, forfeiture, and sale expenses, and satisfaction of valid liens against the vehicle, shall be distributed as follows:

(1) 40 percent of the proceeds must be forwarded to the appropriate agency for deposit as a supplement to the agency's operating fund or similar fund for use in law enforcement;

(2) 20 percent of the proceeds must be forwarded to the prosecuting authority that handled the forfeiture for deposit as a supplement to its operating fund or similar fund for prosecutorial purposes; and

(3) the remaining 40 percent of the proceeds must be forwarded to the city treasury for distribution to neighborhood crime prevention programs.

Subd. 5b.

Disposition of certain forfeited proceeds; trafficking of persons.

Except as provided in subdivision 5c, for forfeitures resulting from violations of section 609.282, 609.283, or 609.322, the money or proceeds from the sale of forfeited property, after payment of seizure, storage, forfeiture, and sale expenses, and satisfaction of valid liens against the property, must be distributed as follows:

(1) 40 percent of the proceeds must be forwarded to the appropriate agency for deposit as a supplement to the agency's operating fund or similar fund for use in law enforcement;

(2) 20 percent of the proceeds must be forwarded to the prosecuting authority that handled the forfeiture for deposit as a supplement to its operating fund or similar fund for prosecutorial purposes; and

(3) the remaining 40 percent of the proceeds must be forwarded to the commissioner of health and are appropriated to the commissioner for distribution to crime victims services organizations that provide services to victims of trafficking offenses.

Subd. 5c.

Disposition of money; prostitution.

Money forfeited under section 609.5312, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), must be distributed as follows:

(1) 40 percent must be forwarded to the appropriate agency for deposit as a supplement to the agency's operating fund or similar fund for use in law enforcement;

(2) 20 percent must be forwarded to the prosecuting authority that handled the forfeiture for deposit as a supplement to its operating fund or similar fund for prosecutorial purposes; and

(3) the remaining 40 percent must be forwarded to the commissioner of health to be deposited in the safe harbor for youth account in the special revenue fund and is appropriated to the commissioner for distribution to crime victims services organizations that provide services to sexually exploited youth, as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 31.

Subd. 7.

Firearms.

The agency shall make best efforts for a period of 90 days after the seizure of an abandoned or stolen firearm to protect the firearm from harm and return it to the lawful owner.

609.5318 FORFEITURE OF VEHICLES USED IN DRIVE-BY SHOOTINGS.

Subdivision 1.

Motor vehicles subject to forfeiture.

(a) If the prosecuting authority establishes by clear and convincing evidence that a motor vehicle was used in a violation of section 609.66, subdivision 1e, the vehicle is subject to forfeiture under this section upon a conviction for the same offense.

(b) The Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit shall not seize a motor vehicle for the purposes of forfeiture under paragraph (a).

Subd. 2.

Notice.

(a) The registered owner of the vehicle must be notified of the seizure and intent to forfeit the vehicle within seven days after the seizure. Notice by certified mail to the address shown in Department of Public Safety records is deemed to be sufficient notice to the registered owner.

(b) The notice must be in writing and:

(1) contain a description of the property seized;

(2) contain the date of seizure; and

(3) be printed in English. This requirement does not preclude the appropriate agency from printing the notice in other languages in addition to English.

(c) Substantially, the following language must appear conspicuously in the notice:

"WARNING: You will automatically lose the above-described property and the right to be heard in court if you do not file a lawsuit and serve the prosecuting authority within 60 days. You may file your lawsuit in conciliation court if the property is worth $15,000 or less; otherwise, you must file in district court. You may not have to pay a filing fee for your lawsuit if you are unable to afford the fee. You do not have to pay a conciliation court fee if your property is worth less than $500."

Subd. 3.

Hearing.

(a) Within 60 days following service of a notice of seizure and forfeiture, a claimant may demand a judicial determination of the forfeiture. If a related criminal proceeding is pending, the 60-day period begins to run at the conclusion of those proceedings.

(b) The demand must be in the form of a civil complaint as provided in section 609.5314, subdivision 3, except as otherwise provided in this section.

(c) If the claimant makes a timely demand for judicial determination under this subdivision, the appropriate agency must conduct the forfeiture under subdivision 4.

Subd. 4.

Procedure.

(a) If a judicial determination of the forfeiture is requested, a separate complaint must be filed against the vehicle, stating the specific act giving rise to the forfeiture and the date, time, and place of the act. The action must be captioned in the name of the prosecuting authority or the prosecuting authority's designee as plaintiff and the property as defendant.

(b) If a demand for judicial determination of an administrative forfeiture is filed and the court orders the return of the seized property, the court shall order that filing fees be reimbursed to the person who filed the demand. In addition, the court may order the payment of reasonable costs, expenses, attorney fees, and towing and storage fees. If the court orders payment of these costs, they must be paid from forfeited money or proceeds from the sale of forfeited property from the appropriate law enforcement and prosecuting agencies in the same proportion as they would be distributed under section 609.5315, subdivision 5.

Subd. 5.

Limitations.

(a) A vehicle used by a person as a common carrier in the transaction of business as a common carrier is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the owner is a consenting party to, or is privy to, the commission of the act giving rise to the forfeiture.

(b) A vehicle is subject to forfeiture under this section only if the registered owner was privy to the act upon which the forfeiture is based, the act occurred with the owner's knowledge or consent, or the act occurred due to the owner's gross negligence in allowing another to use the vehicle.

(c) A vehicle encumbered by a bona fide security interest is subject to the interest of the secured party unless the party had knowledge of or consented to the act upon which the forfeiture is based. A person claiming a security interest bears the burden of establishing that interest by clear and convincing evidence.

609.5319 FINANCIAL INSTITUTION SECURED INTEREST.

Property that is subject to a bona fide security interest, based upon a loan or other financing arranged by a bank, credit union, or any other financial institution, is subject to the interest of the bank, credit union, or other financial institution in any forfeiture proceeding that is based upon a violation of any provision of this chapter or the commission of any other criminal act. The security interest must be established by clear and convincing evidence.

609.762 FORFEITURE OF GAMBLING DEVICES, PRIZES AND PROCEEDS.

Subd. 3.

Not subject to replevin.

Property taken or detained under subdivision 2 is not subject to a replevin action, but is considered to be in the custody of the law enforcement agency subject only to the orders and decrees of the court having jurisdiction over the forfeiture proceedings.

Subd. 4.

Procedures.

Property must be forfeited after a conviction for a gambling violation according to the following procedure:

(1) a separate complaint must be filed against the property describing it, charging its use in the specified violation, and specifying the time and place of its unlawful use;

(2) if the person charged with a gambling offense is acquitted, the court shall dismiss the complaint and order the property returned to the persons legally entitled to it; and

(3) if after conviction the court finds the property, or any part of it, was used in violation as specified in the complaint, it shall order that the property be sold or retained by the law enforcement agency for official use. Proceeds from the sale of forfeited property may be retained for official use and shared equally between the law enforcement agency investigating the offense involved in the forfeiture and the prosecuting agency that prosecuted the offense involved in the forfeiture and handled the forfeiture proceedings.

Subd. 5.

Exception.

Property may not be seized or forfeited under this section if the owner shows to the satisfaction of the court that the owner had no notice or knowledge or reason to believe that the property was used or intended to be used in violation of this section.

Subd. 6.

Reporting.

The law enforcement and prosecuting agencies shall report on forfeitures occurring under this section as described in section 609.5315, subdivision 6.