Audit finds King County Sheriffs Office needs greater transparency in asset forfeiture process

The King County Auditor's Office has released a report emphasizing the urgent need for transparency and accessibility in the King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) asset forfeiture process. The audit revealed that KCSO's outdated, paper-based recordkeeping system complicates tracking total asset seizures, leading to discrepancies in financial records. This lack of clarity extends to the notices issued to property owners, which have been criticized for their confusing legal language and limited availability in non-English languages. The report highlighted that an independent entity should oversee forfeiture hearings to prevent potential conflicts of interest and enhance fairness for claimants. Furthermore, the audit found that while KCSO seized around $9.

4 million in assets from 2017 to 2023, the lack of systematic tracking of challenges raised concerns about due process. KCSO has expressed commitment to addressing these issues by transitioning to electronic records and revising seizure notices to reflect accurate legal responsibilities. The audit's findings underscore the critical nature of fairness and transparency in asset forfeiture, particularly in high-dollar cases related to felony drug investigations. As the KCSO begins to implement these recommendations, the potential for improved public trust in law enforcement practices is significant.