Opinion ID: 724943
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: The Statutory Scheme of Seizure

Text: 4 The warrant in this case was issued in accordance with the Act. Under the Act, an article proceeded against shall be liable to seizure by process pursuant to the libel, and the procedures in cases under this section shall conform, as nearly as may be, to the procedure in admiralty.... 21 U.S.C. § 334(b). Under the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims (Supplemental Rules), an in rem action begins with a complaint that must be verified on oath or solemn affirmation and that must describe with reasonable particularity the property that is the subject of the action. Supplemental Rule C(2). Upon filing of the complaint, the clerk issues a warrant: 5 Except in actions by the United States for forfeitures for federal statutory violations, the verified complaint and any supporting papers shall be reviewed by the court and, if the conditions for an action in rem appear to exist, an order so stating and authorizing a warrant for the arrest of the vessel or other property that is the subject of the action shall issue and be delivered to the clerk who shall prepare the warrant. 6 . . . . . 7 In actions by the United States for forfeitures for federal statutory violations, the clerk, upon filing of the complaint, shall forthwith issue a summons and warrant for the arrest of the vessel or other property.... 8 Supplemental Rule C(3) (emphasis added). Thus, because this was an action by the United States for a forfeiture for federal statutory violations, FDA agents were able to obtain a warrant without review by a judicial officer or a finding of probable cause. 9