It's clear that at least in some states, the police are more highwaymen than highway patrol men. And then they wonder why respect and trust in law enforcement is at an all time low.
Civil forfeiture allows law enforcement to take and keep cash, cars and other property without ever charging someone with a crime. Before that fateful March day, Phil had never heard of civil forfeiture. He was just a musician driving through Wyoming to a show in Salt Lake City. Phil had big plans for his life savings, which he brought with him for safekeeping.
Source: State Steals Life-Savings from Innocent Musician - Foundation for Economic Education