A new law came into force today that blocks yet another avenue for criminals who are trying to profit from crime.

The Criminal Asset Management Act - officially in effect Sept. 30, 2012 - helps to reduce the financial incentives associated with crime, deterring criminals and enhancing public safety in B.C. The new law gives government the explicit authority to manage and dispose of property forfeited as a result of criminal prosecutions, or seized during an investigation in anticipation of forfeiture, fulfilling a commitment made by Premier Christy Clark as part of her Families First agenda.

Proceeds obtained from the forfeiture of assets that were used as instruments to commit crime or were proceeds of crime can be used to compensate eligible victims and to help communities through the funding of crime prevention and remediation projects.

The Criminal Asset Management Act dovetails with the B.C. government’s justice reform agenda. The new law enables prosecutors to pursue criminal forfeiture more frequently, as it allows for more effective management of assets that are restrained, seized or forfeited under the Criminal Code and other criminal statutes.

Quotes:

Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond -

“This new law gives the B.C. government another important crime-fighting tool - one that reminds criminals that crime does not pay off.”

“By removing the proceeds and instruments of crime that many criminals rely on, we are putting criminals in check and helping to enhance public safety in our province.”

Quick Facts:

• The Criminal Asset Management Act was introduced on March 12, 2012 and received Royal Assent on May 14, 2012.

• Civil forfeiture can be pursued after the criminal forfeiture process has been exhausted or if a decision has been made not to pursue criminal forfeiture.

Learn More:

The Criminal Asset Management Act: http://www.leg.bc.ca/39th4th/1st_read/gov28-1.htm

Civil forfeiture: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/civilforfeiture

Contact:

Lauren Mulholland
Communications
Ministry of Justice
250 387-4961
250 889-3922 (cell)