Owens v. State

Miller, Judge.

On September 10, 1998, police seized $578 in currency from Henry Owens because he allegedly used it in connection with the purchase and sale of cocaine. On September 30, the State filed a forfeiture action to condemn the currency. Owens disputed that he was served properly, so at a hearing on January 7,1999, the State, pursuant to court instruction, served Owens personally in open court. Because Owens failed to answer, the court entered default judgment against him on April 7. He appeals, contending (1) he was not properly served; (2) the court failed to hold a hearing within 60…