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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
“It’s been two years of building awareness,
partnerships and momentum; two years of bad news for those who engage in unlawful
activity; and two years of good news for crime prevention efforts and victims
of crime,” said van Dongen.
As
of June 30, the Province had prevailed in 35 cases and seen nearly $4.5 million
in cash, vehicles and other valuable property forfeited – a total that has
since climbed to nearly $5 million. All concluded files resulted in a
settlement or forfeiture on the Civil Forfeiture Office’s terms. As a result,
the office became self-funding in just 18 months and provided more than $1.1
million in its first two years to victims of crime and to local groups pursuing
crime prevention and remediation projects.
On
display at the report’s launch was a 1999 Mercedes Benz CLK AMG that Vancouver
Police discovered carrying a concealed handgun through the downtown entertainment
district. The forfeited white sports coupe is now listed and open to bidding on
the BC Auction website at www.bcauction.ca
online. Two forfeited vehicles auctioned in May – a 2003 Hummer H2 and a 2002 GMC
Denali – netted $73,500 for the Province.
“From
a policing perspective, it’s satisfying to help turn the tools or proceeds of
unlawful activity into something positive, like funding for our Con Air program
and restorative justice initiatives,” said Vancouver Police Chief Jim Chu. “As
the report notes, the streamlined process for pursuing a civil forfeiture
action also makes this program attractive to busy officers.”
The
report summarizes the legal basis of civil forfeiture, how the Province has
used forfeited assets, and what steps B.C. has taken to clarify, strengthen and
expand its legislation. The report is available at www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/publications
online.
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To
hear audio of Solicitor General John van Dongen on the growing success of
B.C.’s civil forfeiture program, please visit: www.mediaroom.gov.bc.ca/DisplayEventDetails.aspx?eventId=420
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Public Affairs Bureau 250 356-6961 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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