<section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-101" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Final disposition” includes an acquittal, dismissal, nolle prosequi, finding of guilty, probation before judgment, plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, marking the charge “stet” on the docket, and an order of an appellate court ending a criminal case.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Financial authority” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>if the seizing authority is the State, the State Treasurer;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the seizing authority is a unit of a county, the treasurer or director of finance of that county; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>if the seizing authority is a unit of a municipal corporation, the treasurer or director of finance of that municipal corporation.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-102" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <text>Money is prima facie contraband if a law enforcement officer in the State seizes the money in connection with an arrest for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>unlawfully playing or operating a bookmaking scheme;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>unlawfully betting on a horse race, athletic event, lottery, or game; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>using an unlawful gaming table or gaming device.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>For purposes of this subsection, the Police Department of Baltimore City is not a State authority.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>All rights in, title to, and interest in money seized under subsection (a) of this section shall immediately vest in and to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the county or the municipal corporation, if the money is seized by the police of the local government, including a sheriff’s department that is the local law enforcement unit; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the State, if the money is seized by a State authority.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-103" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <text>The seizing authority that seizes money that is contraband shall immediately:</text> <level label="1"> <text>photograph the money and record the quantity of each denomination of coin or currency seized; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>deposit the money to the account of the financial authority.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A photograph taken under subsection (a) of this section may be substituted for money as evidence in a criminal or forfeiture proceeding.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-104" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <text>Pending final disposition, the financial authority shall account for and deposit seized money in an interest–bearing bank account or invest the seized money in accordance with Title 17 of the Local Government Article.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-105" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Each application for the forfeiture of contraband shall be by complaint and shall be filed in the District Court or circuit court of the county in which the contraband was seized.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The complaint shall be served in accordance with Maryland Rule 2-121 or 3-121(a), or if service of process is unable to be made and the summons is returned non est, substitute service may be made in accordance with Maryland Rule 2-122 or 3-121(b) or (c).</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If a conviction, including a plea of guilty or plea of nolo contendere, is entered against a person arrested in connection with the seizure of the money, the financial authority shall apply to the District Court or circuit court for an order forfeiting the money to the jurisdiction that the financial authority serves.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The financial authority shall apply for the order within 90 days after entry of the conviction or plea, unless the case is appealed.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Before ordering a forfeiture of the money, the court must be satisfied that no undetermined proceeding to recover the money is pending in court against the financial authority.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-106" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <text>Seized money may be returned only as provided in this section.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Subject to subsection (c) of this section, on a final disposition a claimant may ask the appropriate court for a determination that the money is the property of the claimant and an order that the money be returned.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A claimant under subsection (b) of this section must:</text> <level label="1"> <text>apply within 1 year after the judgment or order was entered or the final disposition was taken; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>give written notice to the financial authority at least 10 days before filing the complaint.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-107" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <text>In a proceeding on a complaint for a return of money, an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi with respect to the gambling charges or indictments involved in the seizure of the money is prima facie evidence that the money is not contraband.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A conviction, plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, or probation under § 6-220 of this article is prima facie evidence that the money is contraband.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Marking a charge “stet” on the docket does not create any presumption as to whether money is contraband.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-108" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to subsection (b) of this section, if a complaint is not timely and properly filed or if the action is finally decided against the claimant, the seized money not disposed of shall be forfeited to the custodian without further judicial action.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>For the seized money to be forfeited, timely notice must be given by certified mail or other appropriate means to any known claimants, at their last known addresses, of the requirements of this section for making claim for the return of seized money.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-109" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Gambling Violations"> <text>This subtitle does not prohibit the trial judge, after an acquittal or dismissal, from ordering the immediate return of all property seized.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-201" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Violations of Gun Laws"> <text>The following property is subject to seizure and forfeiture:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a handgun worn, carried, or transported in violation of § 4-203 or § 4-204 of the Criminal Law Article or sold, rented, transferred, or possessed in violation of § 5-103, § 5-104, § 5-118, § 5-119, § 5-120, § 5-121, § 5-122, § 5-123, § 5-124, § 5-125, § 5-126, § 5-127, § 5-128, § 5-129, § 5-133(a), (b), and (d), § 5-134, or § 5-136 of the Public Safety Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>ammunition, handgun parts, or handgun appurtenances that are:</text> <level label="i"> <text>worn, carried, or transported in violation of § 4-203 or § 4-204 of the Criminal Law Article; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>found in the immediate vicinity of a handgun worn, carried, or transported in violation of § 4-203 or § 4-204 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-202" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Violations of Gun Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>An authorized law enforcement officer may seize property listed under § 13-201 of this subtitle as an incident to an arrest or search and seizure.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>An officer who seizes property under this section shall place the property under seal or remove the property to a location designated by the Department of State Police or by the law enforcement unit having jurisdiction in the locality.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-203" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Violations of Gun Laws"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>By an appropriate inquiry and investigation, the seizing authority shall attempt to identify and locate the owner of a handgun that is seized.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the owner is a resident of the State, the seizing authority may return the handgun to the owner.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If the owner of the handgun is not a resident of the State, the seizing authority shall send the handgun for disposition to the appropriate law enforcement unit where the owner is a resident if the handgun:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is not needed for investigation or evidence; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>is not disposed of under subsection (b) of this section.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If the seizing authority under subsection (a) of this section does not return the handgun to its owner, the seizing authority shall promptly notify the owner that the owner may apply within 30 days to the seizing authority for a review to determine whether the owner knew or should have known that the handgun was worn, carried, transported, or used in violation of § 4-203 or § 4-204 of the Criminal Law Article, and whether the owner is qualified to possess the handgun.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Qualification for possession of a handgun is the same as for sale or transfer of a handgun under §§ 5-103, 5-104, 5-118, 5-119, 5-120, 5-121, 5-122, 5-123, 5-124, 5-125, 5-126, and 5-127 of the Public Safety Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>A person who knowingly gives false information or makes a material misstatement in an application for review or an investigation relating to an application is subject to the penalties under § 5-139 of the Public Safety Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-204" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Violations of Gun Laws"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>On timely receipt of an application, the seizing authority shall hold an informal review to determine whether the owner knew or should have known of the use or intended use of a handgun that is seized in violation of § 4-203 or § 4-204 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The review is not subject to the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the handgun that is seized shall be released to the owner if the seizing authority decides in favor of the owner and the owner is qualified to possess the handgun.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the handgun is needed as evidence in a criminal case or investigation, the handgun shall be promptly returned when the case or investigation ends.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>After review, if the seizing authority determines that the handgun should be forfeited to the State, the owner shall be notified at the owner’s last known address.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Within 30 days after notification, the owner may ask the appropriate District Court for release of the handgun.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The State’s Attorney shall represent the State in the action.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The District Court shall hear the matter and grant proper relief in accordance with this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-205" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Violations of Gun Laws"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In a proceeding in a criminal cause involving a seized handgun, a court may order forfeiture or release of the seized handgun in accordance with this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A person who has made a written claim of ownership of a handgun to the seizing authority or the State’s Attorney shall be notified of the proceeding and of the claimant’s right to present the claim at the proceeding.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A claimant who has completed the review procedure provided for by this subtitle is not entitled to a second review under this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If a timely application for a review or a complaint to the court under § 13-204 of this subtitle does not occur, and an order for release under subsection (a) of this section is not issued, the handgun shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>forfeited to the State without further proceedings; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>destroyed by the seizing authority or disposed of in accordance with § 13-206 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If an owner of a seized handgun is not identified and located, the handgun is forfeited to the State without further proceedings.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-206" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Violations of Gun Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>Whenever property is forfeited under this subtitle, the law enforcement unit that sought forfeiture of the property may only:</text> <level label="1"> <text>order the property retained for the official use of the law enforcement unit;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>destroy the forfeited property; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>sell, exchange, or transfer the forfeited property to another law enforcement unit for official use by that unit.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Within 30 days after disposing of forfeited property, a law enforcement unit shall send to the Secretary of State Police:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a description of the property forfeited;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the type of disposition made; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the identity of the person to whom the property was transferred for disposal, retention, or official use.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-301" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Violations of Explosives Laws"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not apply to a vehicle unless the owner authorized or allowed the vehicle to be used or employed in concealing, conveying, or transporting explosives during the course of a violation of Title 11, Subtitle 1 of the Public Safety Article.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In addition to any other penalty provided for a violation of Title 11, Subtitle 1 of the Public Safety Article, if a person on whom a penalty is imposed under § 11-116 of the Public Safety Article uses or employs a motor vehicle, other vehicle, vessel, or aircraft in concealing, conveying, or transporting explosives during the course of a violation of Title 11, Subtitle 1 of the Public Safety Article, the court on conviction of the person shall order the motor vehicle, other vehicle, vessel, or aircraft to be forfeited to the State or a county, based on which jurisdiction initiated the investigation.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If a court orders forfeiture under subsection (b) of this section, the interest transferred to the State or county is subordinate to the holder of a perfected security interest in the motor vehicle, other vehicle, vessel, or aircraft.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>After discharging any perfected security interest in a forfeited motor vehicle, other vehicle, vessel, or aircraft, the Secretary of State Police or the local governing body of a county may:</text> <level label="i"> <text>use the forfeited motor vehicle, other vehicle, vessel, or aircraft for public purposes; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>sell, exchange, or convey the forfeited motor vehicle, other vehicle, vessel, or aircraft.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any money received from the sale, exchange, or conveyance shall be deposited in the General Fund of the State or county.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-401" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Forfeiting authority” has the meaning stated in § 12–101 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Governing body” has the meaning stated in § 12–101 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Lienholder” has the meaning stated in § 12–101 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Mortgage Fraud law” means the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act, Title 7, Subtitle 4 of the Real Property Article.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Owner” has the meaning stated in § 12–101 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Proceeds” includes property derived directly or indirectly in connection with or as a result of a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <level label="1"> <text>“Property” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>real property and anything growing on or attached to real property;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>personal property; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>money.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Property” does not include a lessor’s interest in property subject to a bona fide lease, unless the forfeiting authority can show that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the lessor participated in a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the property was the proceeds of a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Seizing authority” has the meaning stated in § 12–101 of this article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-402" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <text>The following property is subject to forfeiture:</text> <level label="1"> <text>property used or intended for use in the course of a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>property derived from or realized through a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>proceeds of property described in item (1) or (2) of this section.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-403" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <level label="a"> <text>Property or an interest in property may not be forfeited if the owner establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that the violation of the Mortgage Fraud law was committed without the owner’s actual knowledge.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, property used as the principal family residence may not be forfeited under this subtitle unless one of the owners of the property was convicted of a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Without a conviction, a court may order a forfeiture of property used as the principal family residence if the owner of the family residence:</text> <level label="i"> <text>fails to appear for a required court appearance; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>fails to surrender to the jurisdiction of the court within 180 days after the required court appearance.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Property used as the principal family residence by a husband and wife and held by the husband and wife as tenants by the entirety may not be forfeited unless:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the property was used in connection with:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an attempt or conspiracy to violate the Mortgage Fraud law; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>both the husband and wife are convicted of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an attempt or conspiracy to violate the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-404" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, property subject to forfeiture under this subtitle may be seized in accordance with the procedures set forth in §§ 12–202, 12–203, and 12–208 through 12–211 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The probable cause required under § 12–202(a)(2)(v) of this article is probable cause to believe that the property has been used or is intended to be used in violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-405" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, forfeiture of property under this subtitle shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures set forth in §§ 12–301 through 12–308 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The allegation required under § 12–305(a)(7) of this article refers to the Mortgage Fraud law rather than the Controlled Dangerous Substances law.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-406" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsections (e) and (f) of this section and § 12–403(c) of this article, an owner’s interest in real property may be forfeited if the real property was used in connection with a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Forfeiture proceedings for real property may be brought in the jurisdiction where:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the criminal charges are pending;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the owner resides; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the real property is located.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If forfeiture proceedings for real property are brought in a jurisdiction other than where the real property is located, a notice of pending litigation shall be filed in the jurisdiction where the real property is located.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A notice of pending litigation required under this subsection shall include at least:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the name and address of the owner of the real property;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a description of the real property; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a description of the reasons for the filing of the forfeiture proceedings and notice of pending litigation.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If an owner of real property used as the principal family residence is convicted under the Mortgage Fraud law and the owner files an appeal of the conviction, the court shall stay forfeiture proceedings under § 12–403(c) of this article or subsection (f) of this section against the real property during the pendency of the appeal.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (f) of this section, there is a rebuttable presumption that property or part of a property in which a person has an ownership interest is subject to forfeiture as proceeds, if the State establishes by clear and convincing evidence that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the person has violated the Mortgage Fraud law;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the property was acquired by the person during the violation or within a reasonable time after the violation; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>there was no other likely source for the property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A claimant of the property has the burden of proof to rebut the presumption established under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>Real property used as the principal family residence may not be forfeited under subsection (e) of this section unless:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an owner of the real property was convicted under subsection (e)(1) of this section; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the real property is covered by § 13–403(b)(2) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-407" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in this section, disposition of property after forfeiture under this subtitle shall be subject to §§ 12–401, 12–402, and 12–404 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The court determination under § 12–402(c) of this article shall include that the property was being used or was to be used in violation of the Mortgage Fraud law rather than the Controlled Dangerous Substances law.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>In this subsection the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>“Identifiable losses” include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>expenses necessary to:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>discover the extent of a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>repair damages resulting from a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law, including repairing credit ratings and correcting errors in consumer reports; and</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>prevent further damages resulting from a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>lost wages resulting from time away from work in order to rectify any fraud caused by a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>“Victim” includes a business that loses any thing of value as a result of a violation of the Mortgage Fraud law.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Disposition of forfeited property under this subtitle shall follow the procedures in this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Whenever property is forfeited under this subtitle, the governing body where the property was seized shall sell the property at public auction.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The proceeds of a sale under this subsection shall be distributed as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>first, to pay all proper expenses of the proceedings for forfeiture and sale, including expenses of seizure, maintenance of custody, advertising, and court costs;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>second, for restitution as ordered by the court to victims to pay for identifiable losses resulting from the violation of the Mortgage Fraud law; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>finally, to the General Fund of the State.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-408" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="4" subtitle_name="Violations of the Maryland Mortgage Fraud Protection Act"> <text>Lienholders of property seized under this subtitle shall have the rights and obligations set forth in Title 12, Subtitle 5 of this article.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-501" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Chief executive officer” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>for Baltimore City, the Mayor;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>for a charter county, the county executive or, if there is no county executive, the county council;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>for a code county, the county commissioners;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>for a commission county, the county commissioners; or</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>for a municipal corporation, the legislative body established by municipal charter.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Convicted” means found guilty.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Final disposition” means dismissal, entry of a nolle prosequi, marking of a criminal charge “stet” on the docket, entry of a not guilty verdict, pronouncement of sentence, or imposition of probation under § 6–220 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Forfeiting authority” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the unit or person designated by agreement between the State’s Attorney for a county and the chief executive officer of the governing body having jurisdiction over assets subject to forfeiture to act on behalf of the governing body regarding those assets; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the seizing authority is a unit of the State, a unit or person that the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee designates by agreement with a State’s Attorney, county attorney, or municipal attorney to act on behalf of the State regarding assets subject to forfeiture by the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Governing body” includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the State, if the seizing authority is a unit of the State;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a county, if the seizing authority is a unit of a county;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a municipal corporation, if the seizing authority is a unit of a municipality; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>Baltimore City, if the seizing authority is the Baltimore Police Department.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Human trafficking law” means § 3–324, § 3–1102, § 3–1103, § 11–207, § 11–304, and § 11–305 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Lien” includes a mortgage, a deed of trust, a pledge, a security interest, an encumbrance, and a right of setoff.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Lienholder” means a person who has a lien or a secured interest on property created before the seizure.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“Local financial authority” means:</text> <level label="1"> <text>if the seizing authority is a unit of a county, the treasurer or director of finance of the county; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if the seizing authority is a unit of a municipal corporation, the treasurer or director of finance of the municipal corporation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <level label="1"> <text>“Owner” means a person having a legal, equitable, or possessory interest in property.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Owner” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a co–owner;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a life tenant;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a remainderman to a life tenancy in real property;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a holder of an inchoate interest in real property; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a bona fide purchaser for value.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <text>“Proceeds” means profits derived from a violation of the human trafficking law or property obtained directly or indirectly from those profits.</text> </level> <level label="m"> <level label="1"> <text>“Property” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>real property and anything growing on or attached to real property;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>motor vehicles; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>money.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Property” does not include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an item unlawfully in the possession of a person other than the owner when used in connection with a violation of the human trafficking law; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a lessor’s interest in property subject to a bona fide lease, unless the forfeiting authority can show that the lessor participated in a violation of the human trafficking law or that the property was the proceeds of a violation of the human trafficking law.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="n"> <level label="1"> <text>“Real property” means land or an improvement to land.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Real property” includes:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a leasehold or any other limited interest in property;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an easement; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a reversionary interest in a 99–year ground lease renewable forever.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="o"> <text>“Seizing authority” means a law enforcement unit in the State that is authorized to investigate violations of the human trafficking law and that has seized property under this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-502" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>The following are subject to forfeiture: </text> <level label="1"> <text>except as provided in § 13–503 of this subtitle, a motor vehicle used in connection with a violation of and conviction under § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>money used in connection with a violation of and conviction under the human trafficking law, found in close proximity to or at the scene of the arrest for a violation of the human trafficking law; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>except as provided in § 13–503 of this subtitle, real property used in connection with a violation of and conviction under § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-503" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Property or an interest in property described in § 13–502(1) or (3) of this subtitle may not be forfeited if the owner establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that the violation of the human trafficking law was committed without the owner’s actual knowledge.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A motor vehicle for hire in the transaction of business as a common carrier or a motor vehicle for hire may not be seized or forfeited under this subtitle unless it appears that the owner or other person in charge of the motor vehicle was a consenting party or privy to a violation of the human trafficking law.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A motor vehicle may not be forfeited under this subtitle for an act or omission that the owner shows was committed or omitted by a person other than the owner while the person other than the owner possessed the motor vehicle in criminal violation of federal law or the law of any state.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Subject to subsection (d) of this section, real property used as the principal family residence may not be forfeited under this subtitle unless one of the owners of the real property was convicted of a violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article or of an attempt or conspiracy to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Real property used as the principal family residence by a husband and wife and held by the husband and wife as tenants by the entirety may not be forfeited unless:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the property was used in connection with a violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article or with an attempt or a conspiracy to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>both the husband and wife are convicted of a violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article or of an attempt or conspiracy to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-504" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>Personal property subject to forfeiture under this subtitle may be seized:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on a warrant issued by a court that has jurisdiction over the property; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>without a warrant when:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the seizure is incident to an arrest or a search under a search warrant;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the seizure is incident to an inspection under an administrative inspection warrant;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the property subject to seizure has been the subject of a prior judgment in favor of the State in a criminal injunction or forfeiture proceeding under this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>there is probable cause to believe that the property is directly or indirectly dangerous to health or safety.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-505" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>A seizing authority that seizes money under this subtitle immediately shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>photograph the money and record the quantity of each denomination of coin or currency seized; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>deposit the money to the account of the appropriate local financial authority.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A photograph taken under subsection (a) of this section may be substituted for money as evidence in a criminal or forfeiture proceeding.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-506" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Property seized under this subtitle:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is not repleviable; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is in the custody of the seizing authority, subject only to the orders, judgments, and decrees of the court or the official having jurisdiction over the property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A seizing authority may place seized property under seal and remove the property to a place designated by the court.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-507" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>A seizing authority may seize a motor vehicle used in violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article and recommend forfeiture to the forfeiting authority if the total circumstances of the case as listed in subsection (b) of this section dictate that seizure and forfeiture are justified.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Circumstances to be considered in deciding whether seizure and forfeiture are justified include:</text> <level label="1"> <text>evidence that the motor vehicle was acquired by use of proceeds from a transaction involving a violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the circumstances of the arrest; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the way in which the motor vehicle was used.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-508" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>The chief law enforcement officer of the seizing authority that seizes a motor vehicle used in violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article may recommend to the appropriate forfeiting authority in writing that the motor vehicle be forfeited only if the officer:</text> <level label="1"> <text>determines from the records of the Motor Vehicle Administration the names and addresses of all registered owners and secured parties as defined in the Code;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>personally reviews the facts and circumstances of the seizure; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>personally determines, according to the standards listed in § 13–507 of this subtitle, and represents in writing that forfeiture is warranted.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A sworn affidavit by the chief law enforcement officer that the officer followed the requirements of subsection (a) of this section is admissible in evidence in a proceeding under this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-509" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>The forfeiting authority shall surrender the motor vehicle on request to the owner if the forfeiting authority determines, independent of the decision of the seizing authority, that the total circumstances of the case as listed under § 13–507(b) of this subtitle do not justify forfeiture.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In a proceeding under this subtitle, the court may determine, based on the circumstances listed in § 13–507(b) of this subtitle, whether the seizing authority or forfeiting authority abused its discretion or was clearly erroneous:</text> <level label="1"> <text>in recommending the forfeiture of a motor vehicle; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>in not surrendering on request a motor vehicle to an owner.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-510" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in §§ 13–512 and 13–513 of this subtitle, an owner of seized property who wishes to obtain possession of the property, to convey an interest in real property, or to remove a building or fixture from real property shall notify the clerk of the proper court.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If forfeiture proceedings have begun, the proper court is the court where the proceedings have begun.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If criminal proceedings have begun but forfeiture proceedings have not begun, the proper court is the court where the criminal proceedings have begun.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If both forfeiture proceedings and criminal proceedings have not begun, the proper court is the circuit court for the county where the property was seized.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>Unless the forfeiting authority and the owner agree to a bond in another amount, if a motor vehicle is not needed for evidentiary purposes in a judicial proceeding:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the court shall appraise the value of the motor vehicle on the basis of the average value of the motor vehicle set forth in the National Automobile Dealers Association official used car guide; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>if the owner shows that a lien is on the motor vehicle and the owner agrees to make the required payments to the lienholder, the court shall require a bond in an amount of the average value of the motor vehicle set forth in the National Automobile Dealers Association official used car guide, less the amount owed on the lien.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>For a motor vehicle, the court shall appraise the value in the manner provided in this subsection and provide the appraisal in writing to the clerk of the court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If property other than a motor vehicle is not needed for evidentiary purposes in a judicial proceeding, the clerk shall obtain an independent appraisal of the value of the property.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The sheriff or other person responsible for an appraisal under this subsection shall promptly:</text> <level label="i"> <text>inspect and appraise the value of the property; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>return the appraisal in writing under oath to the clerk of the court.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Notice of the appraisal shall be sent to all lienholders shown in the records required by law for notice or the perfection of the lien.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>On the filing of an appraisal, the owner may give bond payable to the clerk of the court in an amount equal to the greater of:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the appraised value of the property plus any accrued costs; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the aggregate amount of the liens on the property that are shown in the records required by law for the notice or perfection of liens.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A person may give a bond under this subsection by cash, through a surety, through a lien on real property, or by other means that the clerk approves.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>A bond authorized under this subsection:</text> <level label="i"> <text>shall be conditioned for performance on final judgment by the court;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>shall be filed in the District Court or circuit court where the criminal action that gave rise to the seizure is pending; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>unless a complaint for forfeiture has been filed, shall be part of the same criminal proceeding.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If a criminal action is not pending or a forfeiture complaint has not been filed, the bond shall be filed in the circuit court or District Court where the property was seized.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>If the court orders that property or an interest or equity in the property or proceeds be forfeited under this subtitle, the court shall enter judgment in the amount of the bond against the obligors on the bond without further proceedings.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Payment of the amount of the bond shall be applied as provided under § 13–528(c)(3) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-511" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>Seizure of real property occurs on the earlier of the filing:</text> <level label="1"> <text>of a complaint for forfeiture under this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>of a notice of pending litigation in the circuit court of the county where the real property is located.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-512" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Subject to the rights of a lienholder to sell the real property, an owner or an owner’s tenant may remain in possession of seized real property until forfeiture is ordered.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The forfeiting authority may apply to the court for the appointment of a receiver to apply income from income–producing property.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If a person who is an owner or an owner’s tenant remains in possession of the real property and the person’s interest in the real property is forfeited, the person immediately shall surrender the real property to the seizing authority in substantially the same condition as when seized.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-513" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>This section does not apply if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an act is agreed to by a forfeiting authority or is ordered by the court; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>an owner posts a bond under § 13–510 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Until the court enters judgment in favor of the owner, an owner may not attempt:</text> <level label="1"> <text>to convey or encumber an interest in seized real property; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>to remove a building or fixture on seized real property.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-514" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>Except as provided in § 13–517(c) of this subtitle, if property is seized under § 13–504(2)(iv) of this subtitle because there is probable cause to believe that the property is directly or indirectly dangerous to health or safety and that the property was or will be used to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article, forfeiture proceedings under this subtitle shall be filed promptly.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-515" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>Except as provided in § 13–516 of this subtitle, the appropriate forfeiting authority shall file proceedings under this subtitle in the circuit court.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-516" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>To apply for the forfeiture of money, the appropriate local financial authority or the Attorney General shall file a complaint and affidavit in the District Court or the circuit court for the county in which the money was seized.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The complaint and affidavit shall be served in accordance with the Maryland Rules of Procedure.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-517" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided under subsections (b) and (c) of this section, a complaint seeking forfeiture shall be filed within the earlier of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>90 days after the seizure; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>1 year after the final disposition of the criminal charge for the violation giving rise to the forfeiture.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A complaint for the forfeiture of a motor vehicle shall be filed within 45 days after the motor vehicle is seized.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>A proceeding about money shall be filed within 90 days after the final disposition of criminal proceedings that arise out of the human trafficking law.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the State or a political subdivision does not file proceedings about money within the 90–day period, the money seized under this subtitle shall be returned to the owner on request by the owner.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If the owner fails to ask for the return of the money within 1 year after the final disposition of criminal proceedings, the money shall revert to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the political subdivision in which the money was seized; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the State, if the money was seized by State authorities.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-518" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>A complaint seeking forfeiture shall contain:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a description of the property seized;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the date and place of the seizure;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the name of the owner, if known;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the name of the person in possession, if known;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the name of each lienholder, if known or reasonably subject to discovery;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>an allegation that the property is subject to forfeiture;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>if the forfeiting authority seeks to forfeit a lienholder’s interest in property, an allegation that the lien was created with actual knowledge that the property was being or was to be used in violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>a statement of the facts and circumstances surrounding the seizure;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>a statement setting forth the specific grounds for forfeiture; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>an oath or affirmation by the forfeiting authority that the contents of the complaint are true to the best of the forfeiting authority’s knowledge, information, and belief.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Within 20 days after the filing of the complaint, copies of the summons and complaint shall be sent by certified mail requesting “restricted delivery – show to whom, date, address of delivery” and first–class mail to all known owners and lienholders whose identities are reasonably subject to discovery, including all real property owners and lienholders shown in the records required by law for notice or perfection of the lien.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-519" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>A notice shall be signed by the clerk of the court and shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>include the caption of the case;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>describe the substance of the complaint and the relief sought;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>state the latest date on which a response may be filed;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>state that the property shall be forfeited if a response is not filed on time;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>state that the owner of the property may have possession of the property pending forfeiture by posting a bond as provided in § 13–510 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>tell where to file a response and whom to contact for more information concerning the forfeiture.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Within 20 days after the filing of the complaint, the notice shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>posted by the sheriff on the door of the courthouse where the action is pending or on a bulletin board within the immediate vicinity of the door;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>posted by the sheriff in a conspicuous place on the land, if forfeiture of real property is sought; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>published at least once a week in each of 3 successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation published in the county in which the action is pending, unless the property is a boat or motor vehicle.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-520" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>The answer to a complaint shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>comply with the Maryland Rules;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>state the nature and extent of the person’s right in, title to, or interest in the property;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>state how and when the person acquired a right in, title to, or interest in the property; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>contain a request for relief and a request for a prompt hearing.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-521" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>If an answer has been filed on time, the court shall set a hearing on the forfeiture claim within 60 days after the later of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>posting of notice under § 13–519(b)(1) or (2) of this subtitle; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>final publication of notice under § 13–519(b)(3) of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Without a hearing, the court may order forfeiture of the property interest of a person who fails to timely file an answer.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-522" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>Except as provided in §§ 13–503 and 13–524 of this subtitle, an owner’s interest in real property may be forfeited if the owner of the real property is convicted of violating § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article or attempting or conspiring to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-523" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Forfeiture proceedings for real property may be brought in the jurisdiction where:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the criminal charges are pending;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the owner resides; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the real property is located.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If forfeiture proceedings for real property are brought in a jurisdiction other than where the real property is located, a notice of pending litigation shall be filed in the jurisdiction where the property is located.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A notice of pending litigation required under this subsection shall include at least:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the name and address of the owner of the real property;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a description of the real property; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a description of the reasons for the filing of the forfeiture proceedings and notice of pending litigation.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-524" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>If an owner of real property used as the principal family residence is convicted under § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article or is convicted of an attempt or conspiracy to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article and the owner files an appeal of the conviction, the court shall stay forfeiture proceedings under § 13–503 of this subtitle against the real property during the pendency of the appeal.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-525" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, there is a rebuttable presumption that property or part of a property in which a person has an ownership interest is subject to forfeiture as proceeds, if the State establishes by clear and convincing evidence that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the person was convicted of violating § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article or attempting or conspiring to violate § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the property was acquired by the person during the violation or within a reasonable time after the violation; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>there was no other likely source for the property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A claimant of the property has the burden of proof to rebut the presumption in paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Real property used as the principal family residence may not be forfeited under this section unless:</text> <level label="1"> <text>an owner of the real property was convicted of a crime described under subsection (a)(1)(i) of this section; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>§ 13–503(d) of this subtitle applies.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-526" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>The court may order the forfeiture of other property of the owner up to the value of any property seized under this subtitle, with the exception of real property, if as a result of an act or omission of the owner the property to be forfeited:</text> <level label="1"> <text>cannot be located after the exercise of due diligence;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>has been transferred, sold to or deposited with a third party;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>has been placed beyond the jurisdiction of the court;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>has been substantially diminished in value; or</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>has been commingled with other property and cannot be divided without difficulty.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The court may order the owner to return property to the jurisdiction of the court.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-527" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>In a proceeding under this subtitle, a court:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may grant requests for mitigation or remission of forfeiture or take other action that protects the rights of innocent persons, is consistent with this subtitle, and is in the interest of justice;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>may resolve claims arising under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>may take appropriate measures to safeguard and maintain property forfeited under this subtitle pending the disposition of the property.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-528" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>After a full hearing, if the court determines that the property should not be forfeited, the court shall order that the property be released.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Subject to § 13–529 of this subtitle, if the court determines that the property should be forfeited, the court shall order that the property be forfeited to the appropriate governing body.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>If the court determines that the forfeited property is subject to a valid lien created without actual knowledge of the lienholder that the property was being or was to be used in violation of § 3–1102 or § 3–1103 of the Criminal Law Article, the court shall order that the property be released within 5 days to the first priority lienholder.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The lienholder shall sell the property in a commercially reasonable manner.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The proceeds of the sale shall be applied as follows:</text> <level label="i"> <text>to the court costs of the forfeiture proceeding;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>to the balance due the lienholder, including all reasonable costs incident to the sale;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>to payment of all other expenses of the proceedings for forfeiture, including expenses of seizure or maintenance of custody; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>to the General Fund of the State or of the political subdivision that seized the property.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-529" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>If property is forfeited under this subtitle, the governing body where the property was seized may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>keep the property for official use;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>require an appropriate unit to take custody of the property and destroy or otherwise dispose of it; or</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>sell the property if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the law does not require the property to be destroyed; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the property is not harmful to the public.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-530" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>The proceeds from a sale or the retention of property declared to be forfeited and any interest accrued shall be applied, first, to the proper expenses of the proceeding for forfeiture and resulting sale, including the expense of seizing and maintaining custody of the property and advertising.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Any balance remaining after the distribution required under subsection (a) of this section shall be distributed to the General Fund of the State or of the political subdivision that seized the property.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-531" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>A sale of property ordered under this subtitle shall be made for cash and gives the purchaser clear and absolute title.</text> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-532" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Before exercising the right to sell property that has been seized under this subtitle, a lienholder shall give to the forfeiting authority:</text> <level label="1"> <text>written notice of the intention to sell;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>copies of documents giving rise to the lien; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>an affidavit under oath by the lienholder:</text> <level label="i"> <text>stating that the underlying obligation is in default; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>stating the reasons for the default.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>On request of the lienholder, the forfeiting authority shall release the property to the lienholder.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-533" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the law governing the sale of collateral securing an obligation in default governs a lienholder’s repossession and sale of property that has been seized under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A lienholder may not be required to take possession of the property before the sale of the property.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-534" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>Any part of the proceeds from a sale of property that has been seized under this subtitle that would be paid to an owner of the property under the applicable law relating to distribution of proceeds:</text> <level label="1"> <text>shall be paid to the seizing authority; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>shall be property subject to forfeiture.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If an order of forfeiture is not entered, the State shall return to the owner that part of the proceeds and any costs of the forfeiture proceedings paid from the proceeds of the sale.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-535" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <level label="a"> <text>If the interest of the owner in property that has been seized under this subtitle is redeemed, the lienholder shall mail a notice of the redemption to the forfeiting authority within 10 days after the redemption.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>If property that has been seized under this subtitle has been repossessed or otherwise lawfully taken by the lienholder, the lienholder shall return the property to the seizing authority within 21 days after the redemption.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The seizing authority and the forfeiting authority may then proceed with the forfeiture of the property or the proceeds from the sale of the property.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Time limitations required under this subtitle for notice and filing of the complaint for forfeiture run from the date of redemption or purchase of the property that has been seized under this subtitle.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="13-536" title_number="13" title_name="Other Forfeitures" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Violations of the Human Trafficking Law"> <text>This subtitle does not prohibit a lienholder from exercising rights under applicable law, including the right to sell property that has been seized under this subtitle, if a default occurs in the obligation giving rise to the lien.</text> </section>