(a) The chief law enforcement officer of the seizing authority that seizes a motor vehicle used in violation of this title shall recommend to the appropriate forfeiting authority in writing that the motor vehicle be forfeited only if the officer:
(1) determines from the records of the Motor Vehicle Administration the names and addresses of all registered owners and secured parties as defined in the Code;
(2) personally reviews the facts and circumstances of the seizure; and
(3) personally determines, according to the standards listed in § 12-204(b) of this subtitle, and represents in writing that forfeiture is warranted.
(b) (1) A sworn affidavit by the chief law enforcement officer that the officer followed the requirements of this paragraph is admissible in evidence in a proceeding under this section.
(2) The chief law enforcement officer may not be subpoenaed or compelled to appear and testify if another law enforcement officer with personal knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding the seizure and the recommendation of forfeiture appears and testifies at the proceeding.
Structure Maryland Statutes
Title 12 - Forfeiture -- Controlled Dangerous Substances Violations
Section 12-201 - Seizure and Summary Forfeiture of Contraband
Section 12-202 - Seizure of Property Subject to Forfeiture
Section 12-204 - Seizure of Motor Vehicles -- in General
Section 12-205 - Seizure of Motor Vehicles -- Exceptions
Section 12-206 - Recommendation of Forfeiture by Seizing Authority
Section 12-207 - Return of Vehicle to Owner After Seizure
Section 12-208 - Owner Obtaining Possession of Seized Property
Section 12-209 - Seizure of Real Property
Section 12-210 - Possession of Seized Real Property by Owners or Tenants
Section 12-211 - Prohibited Acts
Section 12-212 - Transfer to Federal Authority Prohibited; Exceptions