In Re Seizure of Gambling Proceeds and Devices

OPINION

WANDA McKEE FOWLER, Justice.

In this case, appellants Abelardo Jasso (“Jasso”) and Emerald Coast Exchange (“Emerald Coast”) ask us to determine whether, under Article 18.18(b) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the State’s seizure of gambling devices and proceeds must be pursuant to a search warrant before the State may seek forfeiture of the property when the property’s possessor was not convicted of an offense. We hold that a search warrant is not required for the State to initiate a forfeiture proceeding under Article 18.18(b) when officers enter a gaming establishment with the…