Consequences of forfeiture
4(1)Where any equipment has been forfeited under paragraph 3, the sheriff may, on the application of a person (other than the person in whose case the forfeiture order was made) who claims the equipment, make an order for delivery of the equipment to the applicant.
(2)An order such as is mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) may only be made if the sheriff is satisfied that the applicant is the owner of the equipment.
(3)No application may be made under sub-paragraph (1) after the expiry of the period of 6 months beginning with the date on which a forfeiture order was made in respect of the equipment.
(4)Where the responsible local authority is of the opinion that the person in whose case the forfeiture order was made is not the owner of the equipment, it must take reasonable steps to bring to the attention of persons who may be entitled to do so their right to make an application under sub-paragraph (1).
(5)An order under sub-paragraph (1) does not affect the right of any person to take, within the period of 6 months beginning with the date of the order, proceedings for the recovery of the equipment from the person in possession of it in pursuance of the order (but the right ceases on the expiry of that period).
(6)If, on the expiry of the period of 6 months beginning with the date on which a forfeiture order was made in respect of the equipment, no order has been made under sub-paragraph (1), the responsible local authority may dispose of the equipment.