EUROJUST HELPS JUDICIAL PRACTITIONERS OVERCOME ISSUES WITH FREEZING AND CONFISCATION ORDERS
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The European Judicial Network (EJN) has released a new publication highlighting the challenges that can arise during the asset disposal stage of freezing and confiscation orders. The document provides guidance on how Eurojust, a key player in EU judicial cooperation, can support national authorities in overcoming these issues.
Challenges with Freezing and Confiscation Orders
Freezing and confiscation orders are critical tools in the fight against organized crime and terrorism, allowing authorities to seize and recover assets linked to criminal activity. However, as the EJN publication notes, issues can arise during the asset disposal stage, including:
- Disputes over the estimated value of confiscated assets
- Delays in reaching agreement on asset sharing
Eurojust’s Support
Eurojust’s support can be invaluable in resolving these issues. According to the publication, Eurojust can:
- Advise national authorities on legal options for assessing the value of seized assets
- Facilitate communication with foreign authorities to enable the return of assets
- Provide guidance on the legal basis and procedural steps required for asset-sharing agreements
Coordination between Countries
The EJN publication also highlights the importance of coordination between countries in recovering criminal assets. To this end, Eurojust can:
- Organize meetings between national authorities to promote trust and mutual understanding
- Ensure that information is shared efficiently and effectively
Mutual Recognition of Freezing and Confiscation Orders Regulation
The new publication comes as the EU’s Mutual Recognition of Freezing and Confiscation Orders Regulation takes effect. This regulation aims to streamline the process for recognizing and enforcing freezing and confiscation orders across the EU, making it easier for authorities to recover criminal assets.
Recent Cases
In recent cases, Eurojust has supported national authorities in recovering millions of euros worth of stolen goods and assets linked to organized crime groups operating across Europe. The agency’s expertise and resources are critical in helping judicial practitioners overcome the complex legal and operational challenges associated with asset disposal.
CASE STUDY: Recovering Assets Linked to an Organized Crime Group
A recent example of Eurojust’s support in action involves an organized crime group (OCG) that operated in Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The OCG stole luxury cars using radio wave extenders and transported them through the Czech Republic and Poland to unknown destinations.
Eurojust supported German authorities in recovering assets linked to the OCG, including a fleet of stolen vehicles worth millions of euros. The agency’s expertise was crucial in facilitating communication with foreign authorities and ensuring that the recovered assets were returned to their rightful owners.
CONTACT
For more information on Eurojust’s support for judicial practitioners dealing with freezing and confiscation orders, please contact [Eurojust Press Office] at press@eurojust.europa.eu or +31 (0)70 413 22 11.