For the purposes of this article, the following words shall have the following meanings:
(1) FELONY OFFENSE. Any act that could be charged as a felony criminal offense under the Code of Alabama 1975, whether or not a formal criminal prosecution or delinquent proceeding began at the time the forfeiture was initiated.
(2) FINANCIAL INSTITUTION. A bank, credit union, or savings and loan association.
(3) INNOCENT OWNER. A bona fide purchaser or lienholder of property that is subject to forfeiture, including any of the following:
a. A person who has a valid claim, lien, or other interest in the property seized who did not know or consent to the conduct that caused the property to be forfeited, seized, or abandoned under subdivision (1) of Section 15-5-63.
b. A person who did not participate in the commission of a crime or delinquent act giving rise to the forfeiture.
c. A victim of an alleged criminal offense.
(4) INSTITUTED PROMPTLY. The filing by the district attorney or prosecutorial entity of a civil in rem proceeding in a court of competent jurisdiction within 42 days of seizure, unless good cause is shown for delay.
(5) INSTRUMENTALITY. Property otherwise lawful to possess that is used in or intended to be used in a criminal offense. The term includes, but is not limited to, a firearm, a mobile instrumentality, a computer, a computer network, a computer system, computer software, a telecommunications device, money, or any other means of exchange.
(6) LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. Any municipal, county, or state agency the personnel of which have the power of arrest and to perform law enforcement functions, including prosecutorial entities.
(7) PROCEEDS. Includes both of the following:
a. In cases involving unlawful goods, services, or activities, proceeds includes any property derived directly or indirectly from an offense. The term includes, but is not limited to, money or any other means of exchange. The term is not limited to the net gain or profit realized from the offense.
b. In cases involving lawful goods or services that are sold or provided in an unlawful manner, proceeds are the amount of money or other means of exchange acquired through the illegal transaction resulting in the forfeiture, less the direct costs lawfully incurred in providing the goods or services. The lawful costs deduction does not include any part of the overhead expenses of, or taxes paid by, the entity providing the goods or services. The alleged offender or delinquent has the burden to prove that any costs are lawfully incurred.
(8) PROPERTY. Any real or personal property and any benefit, privilege, claim, position, interest in an enterprise, or right derived, directly or indirectly, from the criminal offense.
Last modified: May 3, 2021