United States of America, (95-6579 97-5016) v. $515,060.42 in United States Currency, Ralph E. White E.M. Jellinek Center, Inc., Claimants-Appellees. United States of America, Plaintiff-Appellee/cross-Appellant (96-6175) v. $515,060.42 in United States Currency Virginia Hurst, Ralph E. White E.M. Jellinek Center, Inc., Claimants-Appellants (96-6057)/cross-Appellees
152 F.3d 491 • Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit • Decided 1998Affirmed
The government seized $515,060 in currency from a bingo operation investigation but failed to file a civil forfeiture case within five years of discovering the illegal activity. The court ruled the case was barred by the statute of limitations and dismissed it. For construction subcontractors, this reinforces that government agencies must follow strict deadlines when seizing assets—delays can result in loss of claims and return of funds.
KEY FINDINGS
Lien Rights
The five-year statute of limitations for civil forfeiture begins when the government discovers the offense, not when the seizure occurs. Missing this deadline means losing the case entirely.