[QUOTE=RichK56;3796547]My understanding is that the website was seized similarly to seizing an asset. The website created revenue for the owners. This would be similar to police seizing a drug dealers cash, car, etc. When arrested. Unless I am missing something, the case has to go to court before any seized assets are returned to the owner (or not returned if the person is found guilty). I think it will be a while before the backpage we know is returned. I also can't believe someone overseas or over the border hasn't created a new form of backpage. Seems to be a lucrative business venture to jump on so long as you are not based in the US.[/QUOTE]If the Backpage seizure was executed as a Civil Forfeiture, it's extremely unlikely that it will ever be restored. Assets seized according to this doctrine are almost NEVER returned to their owners, even if their owners are never charged with a crime or if they're acquitted. Technically, the case is brought by the Government against the ASSET in a Civil proceeding where the ASSET has none of the rights afforded a human defendant. It's an old concept drawn from English Common Law. Though constitutionally defective, the courts have upheld the practice.
