Des Moines Register: Improper traffic stop forces Iowa to return $200k
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Iowa law does no require successful forfeitures to be tied to criminal charges or convictions.
The state has seized more than $55 million in cash from more than 19,000 people and at least 4,200 vehicles since 1986, a Des Moines Register investigation last year showed.
Several personal libertarians and civil rights groups, as well as lawmakers from both parties, have condemned the controversial tactics, commonly known as ‘civil forfeiture.’
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Other groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa and U.S. Justice Action Network support the bill, which is awaiting a signature by Gov. Terry Branstad.