United States v. $70,000 United States Currency

LASKER, District Judge.

In this action, the government seeks forfeiture of a Chevrolet S-10 Blazer and $70,000 in United States currency allegedly used in connection with the possession of marijuana intended for distribution. The claimants William Henry (as to the defendant-in-rem vehicle) and Jupiter Wine Corporation, by its president, Henry (as to the defendant-in-rem currency) have moved to dismiss the action on the basis of collateral estoppel, and the government has cross-moved for summary judgment on its forfeiture claims.

The claimants’ collateral estoppel argument is without merit, and…