David Gee, Sheriff of Hillsborough County v. Grantland

SALARIO, Judge.

The Sheriff of Hillsborough County appeals a final order dismissing á complaint seeking the civil forfeiture of a 1994 Ford Explorer based upon the trial court’s conclusion that there was no probable cause to support the seizure. We hold that the complaint and accompanying affidavits, aided by a statutory presumption that the vehicle was used to transport contraband, adequately established probable cause. We therefore reverse.

The sheriffs office seized the vehicle when the driver and two passengers were arrested for traffic and narcotics offenses. Pursuant to the Florida…