Purpose

To determine the extent of implementation of the six recommendations included in our original report, Seized Assets Program (2013-S-46).

Background

The mission of the New York State Division of State Police (Division) is to serve, protect, and defend the people of New York State while preserving their rights and dignity. During the course of an investigation or an arrest, law enforcement agencies may seize assets, including cash, personal property, real property, vehicles, or other items that are suspected of being used to conduct criminal activity, are the proceeds from a criminal activity, or were purchased with the proceeds of a criminal activity. As of October 2017, the Division was tracking 3,193 pending seized assets valued at $582.4 million. Our initial audit report, which was issued on December 23, 2014, covering the period April 1, 2011 through September 19, 2013, determined whether the Division properly accounts for seized assets and whether it obtains the requested share from forfeited assets. We concluded that the division did not properly account for or track seized assets.

Key Finding

The Division has implemented the six recommendations identified in our prior audit report. 

Key Recommendation

None

Other Related Audit/Report of Interest

Division of State Police: Seized Assets Program (2013-S-46)