[JohnR]

Originally Posted by Mike P

It's not as easy to keep it, as it is to take it. The Commonwealth has to file a notice of intent to seek forfeiture with the court, and unless a defendant agrees to not contest it, it has to be litigated. Every DA's office in Mass has a Civil Forfeiture Unit, and it's up to them to decide whether it's worth the time and trouble. It's easier for a drug dealer to agree to give up the cash---usually less than $100---that was impounded at his arrest in return for not going to jail, or for a shorter bit, than for people to give up boats and vehicles. These guys likely agreed to forfeit their tackle and coolers as a condition of the plea---they paid the fine in cash before walking out of court. They probably stopped at Walmart on the way home to buy new cheap gear.

Good points