OLR Report 2015-R-0204 explains the drug asset forfeiture law and how it is carried out.
Under the law, prosecutors file civil actions in court seeking an order to forfeit property seized related to drug crimes. If an order is issued, property is sold at public auction and the remaining funds, after debts and costs have been paid, are deposited in a drug asset forfeiture revolving account and used for substance abuse treatment and education programs and detecting, investigating, apprehending, and prosecuting people for drug crimes.
A three-person panel consisting of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) commissioner, statewide narcotics task force commander, and Connecticut Police Chiefs Association president distributes the funds to DESPP, local police departments, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) for certain purposes.
Seventy percent goes to DESPP and local police departments in a way that equitably reflects their contribution in the actions leading to the forfeiture, 20% goes to DMHAS, and 10% goes to DCJ.
For a detailed accounting of the process and total funds collected in recent years, click here to read the full report.
