PROPERTY SEIZURE LAW RAISES ALARM

EDMONTON -- The Criminal Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA) has
"serious" concerns about a new Alberta law that allows the seizure and
sale of people's property before they've been tried for their alleged
crimes in court.

But Justice Minister Alison Redford said yesterday her department
intends to proceed with sales of property prior to convictions even
though one of two similar laws in other provinces is being appealed to
the Supreme Court of Canada.

"The issue is that you're taking people's property ... for a crime
that they may not have even committed," said lawyer Shannon Prithipaul.

At a news conference yesterday, Redford defended the legislation that
was passed Dec. 17, and said the total value of illegal profit
connected to the seized property is estimated at $4.6 million.

"If you are involved in criminal activity," said Redford, "you need to
be aware that we have the power to come and take away your luxury SUV,
your home or your bag full of drug money. You will lose that property."

Redford said the Victims Restitution and Compensation Payment Act is
fair because judges will ultimately decide what can be seized and sold.