98-09 ASSET SEIZURE

Unit Order:  98-09

Subject:       ASSET SEIZURE

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Unit Order is to outline the policy for seizing money and property during a criminal investigation.

GUIDELINES

TRAP investigators shall be guided by MMP sections 5-09/465.00, Search Operations, specifically 5-09/465.40, Seizure of High Value Property during Search Operations.  This Unit Order applies to all TRAP investigators and investigations.

If it is anticipated that the search operation will result in a high dollar seizure, $10,000 dollars or greater in valuables or money (excluding real estate and vehicles), the Unit Commander will be notified as soon as possible prior to the search operation.  The Unit Commander will insure that a lieutenant is assigned as the incident commander.

If the seizure is related to narcotics and is seizable under 11470 (f) HS, the LASD Narcotics Bureau, Asset Forfeiture Unit will be contacted.  If the seizure is not related to narcotics, but can be tied to a criminal enterprise, LASD Narcotics Bureau, Asset Forfeiture Unit will be contacted to facilitate the counting of the money and to begin forfeiture procedures

The handling investigator shall notify TRAP Operations of the seizure by the following business day of the seizure.  TRAP Operations shall maintain contact with LASD Narcotics Asset Forfeiture Unit on a monthly basis to ensure TRAP is credited with the proceeds of the seizure.  All the elements of MMP 5-09/465.00, Search Operations remain in effect.

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MARTIN L. RODRIGUEZ, CAPTAIN

PROJECT DIRECTOR