Crime commission rejects asset forfeiture reform measure

(AP) The Virginia State Crime Commission has refused to endorse legislation prohibiting authorities from seizing ill-gotten assets until a defendant has been convicted and appeals have been completed.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that the panel voted 9-3 against supporting the measure Thursday. Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Doucette, a member of the commission, said recent reports about police abuse of asset seizures concern federal law, not state law.

Brunswick County Sheriff Brian K. Roberts also said Virginia doesn’t have a problem with asset forfeitures.

Republican Del. Todd Gilbert of Shenandoah County argued that that most Virginians expect the government to be able to seize property only if a person is convicted.

The General Assembly last year declined to vote on the legislation and sent it to the commission for further study.