In 2013, Deputy Lee Dove conducted traffic stops on Interstate 80 near Winnemucca, Nevada, where he seized large sums of cash from motorists without filing charges. On September 23, 2013, Dove stopped Tan Nguyen for driving 78 mph in a 75 mph zone and confiscated $50,000 in cash, alleging suspicion of illegal activity despite finding no drugs. In December 2013, Dove stopped Michael Lee and seized $13,800 and a handgun under similar circumstances. Both individuals filed federal lawsuits accusing Dove of illegal searches and seizures. The cases were settled in 2014, with the county returning the seized funds and covering attorney fees. The incidents raised significant concerns about civil asset forfeiture practices within the department.
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