As people have pointed out, forfeiture laws get horribly abused. These laws (allowing cops to seize money when they can't prove there was any crime) were originally meant to stop illicit money that's about to head overseas, but that power has lead to stealing like this.
Just since I was wondering what happened to this particular guy, for those who are interested: The cops gave it to the DEA and they held his money for 10 months before he was able to get it back. Since then, a decision in the Nevada Supreme Court means his suit is moving forward and he's going to be able to sue for having his rights violated.
“It’s been far too easy for the government to seize a private citizen’s property, in some cases even without criminal charges being brought,” said Rep. Walberg.
walberg.house.gov
A Marine veteran had his life savings taken from him without being charged with any crimes. Thanks to a recent state supreme court decision, his effort to hold officers accountable can move forward again.
www.forbes.com