Seized Cash Claims Raise Rights Concerns in Oklahoma City

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More than $427,000 in cash seized during arrests in Oklahoma City over nearly a quarter-century is at the center of a dispute that a former municipal counselor says could put civil rights on the line. The former counselor warns that the seizure of cash during arrests, even without charges, is "a little frightening" and raises concerns about potential overreach by law enforcement.

Why it matters

The use of civil asset forfeiture laws, which allow police to seize cash and property even without charging someone with a crime, has faced growing scrutiny and criticism from civil liberties advocates who argue it can lead to abuse and undermine due process protections.

The details

The cash seizures in Oklahoma City occurred during arrests over the past 25 years, with the funds going to a special law enforcement fund rather than being returned to the individuals from whom they were taken. A former municipal counselor who reviewed the cases says the practice raises concerns about potential violations of constitutional rights and due process.

• The cash seizures occurred over nearly a quarter-century in Oklahoma City.
• The former municipal counselor reviewed the cases recently.

What they’re saying