FBI's Illegal Seizure: Violating the Fourth Amendment and Due Process

Four years ago, the FBI raided U.S. Private Vaults (USPV) in Beverly Hills, seizing tens of millions of dollars in cash, valuables, and personal items, including Linda Martin's $40,200 life savings, without charging her with a crime. The FBI's actions were found to violate the Fourth Amendment, yet they refused to return the property. Only after Martin filed a nationwide class-action lawsuit did the FBI return her money, but she continues her suit to prevent future similar actions. The core issue is the FBI's failure to state reasons for the seizure in its notice, violating due process. This case highlights the government's abuse of civil forfeiture, with 93% of federal forfeitures never reaching court, allowing the FBI to keep the money without justification.