(a) Any tool, implement, or instrumentality, including, but not limited to, a motor vehicle or motor vehicle part, used or possessed in connection with any violation of § 31-48-3 may be seized by a member of a state or local law enforcement agency upon process issued by any court of competent jurisdiction.
(b) Seizure of property described in subsection (a) of this section may be made by a member of a state or local law enforcement agency without process:
(1) If in accordance with any applicable law or regulation;
(2) If the seizure is incident to inspection under an administrative inspection warrant;
(3) If the seizure is incident to search made under a search warrant;
(4) If the seizure is incident to a lawful arrest;
(5) If the seizure is made pursuant to a valid consent to search;
(6) If the property seized has been the subject of a prior judgment in favor of the state in a criminal proceeding, or in an injunction or forfeiture proceeding under § 31-48-6; or
(7) If there are reasonable grounds to believe that the property is directly or indirectly dangerous to health or safety.
(c) When property is seized under this section, the seizing agency may:
(1) Lock and secure the property at its location; or
(2) Remove the property to a place selected and designated by the seizing agency.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 273, § 1.