Commonwealth v. Real Property & Improvements Commonly Known as 5444 Spruce Street

OPINION

JUSTICE LAMB.

In this appeal we are asked to consider the forfeiture of a house in Philadelphia in light of the United States Supreme Court’s holding in United States v. Bajakajian, 524 U.S. 321, 118 S.Ct. 2028, 141 L.Ed.2d 314 (1998). For the reasons outlined below, we reverse the order of the Commonwealth Court and remand the case to the trial court to establish the value of the house forfeited.

On February 20, 1995, police made an undercover buy of crack cocaine and marijuana at 5444 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, which was owned by Elizabeth Lewis, who had lived in the house since…