Hawaii lawmakers poised to reform program that allows police to seize cash and cars

Hawaii lawmakers are poised to pass legislation reforming the state’s civil asset forfeiture program, which allows law enforcement agencies to seize property, such as cars and cash, that they suspect is connected to criminal activity. But the bill could still be rejected by Gov. David Ige, who vetoed similar legislation in 2019.

Law enforcement agencies argue the seizures are an important tool for deterring crime. But the practice is controversial, and critics, including public defenders and civil liberties advocates, say it’s ripe for abuse.

https://www.staradvertiser.com/2021/04/04/hawaii-news/hawaii-lawmakers-poised-to-reform-program-that-allows-police-to-seize-cash-and-cars/