Ron O'Gwin reported that in fiscal year 1999, DOL suspended 290,000 licenses for all reasons. The political realities of decriminalization were also discussed. Dick Van Wagenen suggested that a monetary saving is not a sufficient reason. There must be some policy basis for removing criminal sanctions. A question arose about whether impounds can be based on an infraction.
Impound proceedings are in rem proceedings based on use of property in the commission of a crime.
Decriminalization may also result in diminishing the effectiveness of impound law. Law enforcement expressed some concern about losing the investigative tool of a search incident to arrest. It is felt there are many situations in which a DWLS 3 arrest has lead to confiscation of drugs and prosecution for drug offenses. Warrant Sweeps . It is felt this should be a law enforcement initiative.