Which, in this case, would likely cost them $10,000+ for the return of a $2500 car.
Sure, the law say they can't have their stuff seized until conviction, but right now, that car is evidence and will be impounded and held as such. Technically, the cops have not officially "seized" the car - it's impounded as evidence. The actual seizure will occur once the screwball mechanic gets convicted.
The cost of litigation to return one's property is the number one reason asset seizure laws continue to exist. That, and the fact that we are entirely unwilling to actually stand and fight - and die, if necessary - protecting our rights.
Which, in this case, would likely cost them $10,000+ for the return of a $2500 car.
This is why the law forbidding the practice needs to have teeth. Say, perhaps, 10% of the value of the property for each and every day that the property has not been returned to the owners.
Just to make it interesting, make it compound.
That’s my point, to strip it of the profit, and make it a loss. Using your example, they take your $2500 car. It takes you $10000 to get it back. You are out $12500. So you then sue them for triple damages over attorney’s fees, *and* court costs.
This would need to be permitted by the state legislature, but would stop such nonsense cold.
Not only that, but should the conviction fail, the family can go down to the local tow yard to claim their car after they pay the $1500/mo storage fee and tow bill.
The storage fee to be shared with law enforcement in some cases.