Can IDEM seize property or take action against a property?
IDEM is an investigative agency, not a prosecutorial entity. This means that while IDEM is able to look into a property, collect information and evidence, and make recommendations to other groups, it is not able to file charges or make arrests. IDEM works in partnership with several agencies that do have the authority to prosecute individuals, on a local to federal level. Any legal judgments that are placed on an individual or facility are made by the court system. IDEM is not able to seize property outright. In some instances where citizens or facilities have ignored court judgments, IDEM can use due process and the court system to request that particular property be sold. There are specific limits on what property this may apply to. Additionally, this course of action is used to reimburse cleanup costs or pay civil fines that have been ignored. According to state statute, IDEM may take action on a property by limiting or prohibiting certain actions. These limitations are levied in th
