2234

Sixty-Day Notice Period in All Administrative Forfeiture Cases

BACKGROUND: Through the many forfeiture statutes, Congress has made clear its intent that the government be expeditious in providing notice and in initiating forfeiture actions against seized property. Further, a fundamental aspect of due process in any forfeiture proceeding is that notice be given as soon as practicable to apprise interested persons of the pendency of the action and afford them an opportunity to be heard. Notice to owners and interested parties of the seizure and intent to forfeit in all administrative forfeiture cases is governed by 19 U.S.C. §  1607, which requires "written notice" to all interested parties. [cited in USAM 9-112.210]