Wyoming Asset Forfeiture Laws Examined Again

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming lawmakers are considering whether to end the state's practice of confiscating vehicles and other assets that police suspect have been used for drug smuggling even if the owners are never convicted of a crime.

The Joint Judiciary Committee considers two bills next week in Cody. One would require a conviction before the state could seize assets. The other would require a civil court hearing to determine if forfeiture is appropriate.

The Wyoming Attorney General's Office favors requiring civil court hearings.

Gov. Matt Mead vetoed a bill this year that would have required a conviction before law enforcement could seize a defendant's assets.