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Forfeiture and Deprivation

Investigation — Authorised Professional Practice

All topics

Summary

The Forfeiture and Deprivation topic underlines how police officers can manage the seizure, removal, and forfeiture of properties related to criminal activities. It highlights legislation such as the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, which provides powers for seizing property when examination or searching is impractical. Additionally, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 allows for the forfeiture of items related to drug offences. Important aspects covered include the process for confiscation, addressing possession and facilitation of offences, and handling third-party claims. The topic also covers laws related to terrorist properties and specific orders for freezing, restraint, and forfeiture under terrorism legislation. The aim is to assist officers in effectively navigating the legal frameworks governing these actions.

Key principles

  • 1Seizure and removal powers allow for property to be taken when examination on-site is impractical.
  • 2Property can be forfeited if it relates to criminal offences, including drug trafficking.
  • 3Separate legislative frameworks govern how different types of properties, including those related to terrorism, can be seized and forfeited.

This is a brief, factual summary. The full APP guidance — including operational detail, statutory references and case studies — lives on the College of Policing website. APP is the authoritative source for UK policing practice.

Read the full APP guidance

Source: College of Policing — Authorised Professional Practice · Crown copyright, licensed under Open Government Licence v3.0. Summary fetched 2026-06-27.