Sessions Reinstates Asset Forfeiture Police at the Dept. of Justice

Attorney General Jeff Sessions addresses the summer meeting of the nation’s district attorneys from around the country at the Hilton in Minneapolis, Minn., Monday, July, 17 2017. Sessions said the Justice Department will soon make it easier for local law enforcement to seize cash and property from crime suspects and reap the proceeds. (Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via AP)

OAN Newsroom
The Justice Department announces plans to step-up efforts to seize property and money from suspected criminals.
Speaking at the department this Wednesday morning, Attorney General Jeff Sessions said civil asset forfeiture is a key tool in helping law enforcement de-fund organized crime.
Politicians and lawmakers have criticized the practice, saying it allows law enforcement to seize property without an indictment or ample evidence of a crime.
However, Sessions added there will be enhanced training on the expanded asset forfeiture laws, and his department will protect the rights of all law abiding citizens.
Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosentein tied the effort to the push to combat the nation’s opioid crisis, suggesting it would help local law enforcement fight the rise in drug overdose deaths.