Pubdate: Fri, 28 Nov 2008
Source: Meridian Booster (CN AB)
Copyright: 2008 Osprey Media
Contact: http://www.meridianbooster.com/feedback1/LetterToEditor.aspx
Website: http://www.meridianbooster.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1590
Author: Graham Mason

CRIME IS GOING TO PAY - BACk

Police in Alberta now have the power to seize property such as
vehicles and weapons that have been used to commit crimes with the new
Victims Restitution and Compensation Payment Act passed on Nov. 5.

"The extended scope of the Act allows us to further take profit out of
crime and remove the instruments that have enabled criminals to commit
a wide variety of offences," said Alison Redford, attorney general and
minister of justice.

Any funds gained from the sale of seized property will go to victims
of crimes and repairing damaged property.

Local MLA Lloyd Snelgrove had nothing but glowing words for the
legislation in an earlier interview with the Booster.

"What we are saying is 'we're not even waiting for you to be convicted
of a criminal crime, we believe that you have used your vehicle or
your house in a drug situation . we're going to sell your house and
we're going to sell your car," said Snelgrove. "We're really tired of
the system working for them."

Examples of proceeds and instruments of crime include money from drug
trafficking or the sale of stolen property, property seized - from a
chop shop for example - vehicles used to deliver drugs, or residences
used to house illegal activity.

The Civil Forfeiture Office, which was established on Oct. 1, will be
in charge of prosecuting cases under the act.
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MAP posted-by: Steve Heath