Will Grigg?s Liberty Minute

July 21, 2008

The phrase ?moral hazard? refers to incentives that abet immoral or irresponsible behavior. Asset forfeiture laws permitting police to seize property and cash without charging the owners with a crime create a uniquely destructive form of moral hazard.

In St. Louis, for instance, police can seize cars belonging to people suspected of certain crimes. Cars not claimed in thirty days become the property of the towing company that works with the department.

This program is immensely profitable, generating millions of dollars for the city. Police and their relatives have enjoyed access to the cars, ?borrowing? them for their personal use, or purchasing them for as much as 75 percent below market value. Aimie Mokiwa, the police chief?s daughter, bought four confiscated vehicles for less than half their market price, and wrecked two of them.

Civil asset forfeiture encourages police corruption and nullifies due process of law. It must be abolished.

Let us take back the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free.