State of Ga. v. Montford

Smith, Judge.

This is an appeal by the State of Georgia from the adverse judgment of the superior court on its complaint for forfeiture of an automobile and other personal property. The items were seized after the discovery of marijuana and cocaine within the vehicle during a traffic stop. OCGA § 16-13-49 et seq.

Pursuant to OCGA § 16-13-49 (n), the State first filed a “notice of seizure of personal property valued at $25,000 or less.” The property, which was taken from the possession of appellee Vernon C. Montford, included a 1986 Acura Legend and $715 in cash. Montford filed a notice of claim…