FL S1044

Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain a probable cause determination from a court within 10 business days of seizing property, with limited exceptions for cases where the property owner is arrested, cannot be identified, is a fugitive, or the property is currency or monetary instruments.

Increases the evidentiary standard for property forfeiture from clear and convincing evidence to proof beyond a reasonable doubt that the property was used in violation of the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act.

Requires seizing agencies to pay a filing fee of at least $1,000 and deposit a $1,500 bond with the court, with the bond payable to the claimant if they prevail, and increases attorney's fees awarded to claimants from $1,000 to $2,000.

Makes seizing agencies responsible for damage to seized property and storage/maintenance costs unless otherwise agreed in writing, and prohibits compensation of law enforcement officers from being dependent on seizure quotas.

Requires annual reporting of all seized and forfeited property to the Department of Law Enforcement by October 10, with a $5,000 civil fine imposed on agencies that fail to comply within 60 days of notification.