Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick has released his office’s compilation of 2023 federal forfeiture reports. Law enforcement agencies that participate in the federal asset forfeiture system must file information regarding federal seizures and proceeds with the State Auditor’s Office.
Law enforcement agencies can seize money and property from individuals and organizations involved in illegal activities. State and local law enforcement agencies that participate in federal investigations resulting in forfeitures may request a portion of the funds recovered through the system.
In 2023, 646 Missouri law enforcement agencies were identified as being potential participants in the federal asset forfeiture system. Of these agencies, 124 filed reports. During their fiscal year, they reported receiving nearly $7.1 million and spending over $8.7 million. The remaining 522 agencies did not file a report, although they were not required to file if they did not participate in the system. A list of the reporting agencies with amounts reported is included in the complete report.
In Texas County, in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, it shows the South Central Drug Task Force received $803,966 and interest earned of $262. Of the $804,228 received, $6,102 was spent, according to the report. (The City of Cabool serves as the fiscal agent for the funds, and it receives 5 percent as serving as the pass-through, which allows it to use on qualifying purchases).
The information included in the compilation report is gathered from copies of the federal form “ACA Form – Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification” submitted by law enforcement agencies to the state auditor’s office.
In February, the state auditor released a compilation of 2023 Criminal Activity Forfeiture Act seizure reports submitted to the state auditor by prosecuting attorneys and the attorney general. A complete copy the compilation report on funds received by law enforcement agencies through the federal forfeiture system is at https://bit.ly/4bnIDRI