In 1992, when he first took office, Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli began a drug forfeiture program aimed at the wealth accumulated by drug dealers.

Since then, $1.9 million worth of illegal substances has been seized. This money is then poured into local police departments, block watch groups and training. It even helps pay the salary of a prosecutor.

At a recent news conference, Morganelli updated the public on forfeiture activity over the past year. For the 12 months ending on June 30, 2014, he has confiscated $120,544 in money and property from drug dealers. This includes $120,544 in cash and $11,009 in proceeds from the sale of 10 forfeited vehicles and other property.

Under state law, the district attorney is authorized to seize money, cars and even real estate used to facilitate the drug trade. It is done by a civil action against the property itself (in rem) instead of its owner. But Morganelli only uses his forfeiture powers against actual drug dealers. "We don't take a house if, unbeknown to you, your son is dealing drugs," he explained.

"The message that we want to send to those who deal in drugs is a simple and clear one," said Morganelli. "Be assured that you are doing it at your own risk. When we catch you we will seize your money, your house, your vehicle and any other ill-gotten gains from your drug dealings."