What is the legal process for seizing a horse as evidence in a criminal case?

In New York, horses may be seized as evidence in a criminal case, but there is a legal process that must be followed. First, the horse must be seized in accordance with the rules established by the New York State Evidence Law. This law states that in order for a seizure to be lawful, it must be done with the knowledge and consent of the owner or with a search warrant granted by a court. In addition, the officer seizing the horse must then have it appraised by two qualified appraisers to determine its value. Once the horse has been appraised, the officer must obtain a court order for its seizure. This is done by making an application to the court, stating the reasons why the horse should be seized and the expected value of the horse. If the court grants the order, the horse must then be held in a safe and secure facility, until the criminal case is over. Finally, the court must also issue an order for the return of the horse to its rightful owner at the conclusion of the criminal case. This order must be granted if the accused is found not guilty, or if the charges are dropped for any reason. If the accused is found guilty, the court has the authority to order the permanent seizure of the horse, or the sale of the horse with the proceeds being given to the rightful owner.

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