Asset Forfeiture Fund

Pursuant to state and federal laws, the Stafford Sheriff’s Office participates in forfeited asset sharing programs administered by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). Federal and state law authorizes the civil seizure and forfeiture of assets derived from illegal activities such as narcotics trafficking and violations of alcoholic beverage laws. Forfeited assets and funds are maintained by the County Treasurer and are administered by the Sheriff's Office for law enforcement use.

The Asset Forfeiture Fund, established in June 2000, is a Governmental special revenue fund. This fund is used to account for the receipt and disbursement of funds received from the forfeiture of assets from drug enforcement activities. After the property is seized, the Circuit Court decides whether the property is related to drug activity and will be forfeited to the locality. If the property is forfeited, The Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) divides the funds between the Sheriff’s office, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office, and DCJS. The forfeited assets can be used for only specified law enforcement purposes as set forth in the Guide to Equitable Sharing and cannot supplant the agency’s budgetary costs. Typical approved uses include enforcement efforts, equipment, public awareness, and training.

• To aggressively pursue and enforce violations of local, state and federal drug laws.
• To actively participate in all available equitable sharing programs.