Holder Limits Seizures by Police

On Friday, Attorney General Eric Holder announced a new ordinance that would limit local and state police’s ability to seize assets—cash, cars and other property—under federal law without proof that a crime had occurred. Previously, law enforcement was able to confiscate personal possessions without actually charging the owner, then “adopting” the seizures to federal agencies under an Equitable Sharing program founded three decades ago. “We’re going to have a fairer justice system because of it,” Senator Charles Grassley, a Republican, said. “The rule of law out to protect innocent people and civil asset forfeiture hurt a lot of people.” Exceptions will include illegal firearms, ammunition, explosives and property associated with child pornography.