MS HB144

Establishes a uniform criminal forfeiture procedure for crimes without existing forfeiture statutes, allowing seizure of property used to commit crimes, proceeds, and fruits of criminal activity.

Authorizes police officers to seize forfeited property without a court order upon probable cause, or with an ex parte court order; requires inventory receipt and notice to property owners.

Protects innocent owners and lienholders from forfeiture unless they had knowledge of criminal use or permitted use under circumstances where a reasonable person should have inquired; liens must be reimbursed from sale proceeds up to their recorded value.

Makes forfeiture part of the criminal sentencing phase; bifurcates hearings for property valued at $2,500 or more with notice to parties holding security or property interests.

Requires sale proceeds to first cover forfeiture costs (seizure, custody, advertising, court costs) with remainder deposited in state, county, or city general funds; allows seizing agencies to retain, transfer, or dispose of property per court order.