§10503.__Forfeiture of seized fish, wildlife and equipment

Whenever a libel has been filed pursuant to section 10502:

1.__Notice and hearing of libel. The judge shall fix a time for the hearing of the libel and issue a notice of the libel to all persons interested, citing them to appear at the time and place appointed and show cause why the fish, wildlife or equipment possessed should not be declared forfeited.__A true and attested copy of the libel and notice must be posted in 2 conspicuous places in the town or place where the fish, wildlife or equipment possessed was seized, or in such place or places as is ordered by the court, at least 10 days before the day on which the libel is returnable. Copies must be served on common carriers;

2.__Disposal and sale of fish or wildlife. If the court finds that the fish or wildlife seized will be unsuitable for food or other use on the day on which the libel is returnable, the court shall order the officer making the seizure to dispose of the seized fish or wildlife. The officer disposing of the seized fish or wildlife shall, in case of sale, hold the proceeds of the sale subject to order of the court for decision as to the right of the claimant, if any appear, to the fish or wildlife. If the court finds the claimant, if any appear, is not entitled to the fish or wildlife, the officer making the seizure shall turn over to the court the proceeds of the sale, and the court shall forward the proceeds to the commissioner in the same manner as is provided by section 10203;

3.__Declaration of forfeiture. If no claimant appears, the court shall, on proof of notice, declare the articles forfeited to the State;

4.__Claim procedures. If a person appears and claims the articles, or any part of the articles, as having a right to the possession of them at the time when they were seized, that claimant shall file with the court a claim in writing stating specifically:

A.__The right so claimed;

B.__The foundation of the claim;

C.__The item so claimed;

D.__The time and place of the seizure;