United States v. 2005 Pilatus Aircraft

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After a criminal investigation resulted in the Government seizing a 2005 Pilatus Aircraft, Bearing Tail No. N679PE, and instituting a civil forfeiture proceeding against the plane, Claimants claimed interest in the aircraft. Claimants are Pablo Zarate Juarez, who is a Mexican citizen, as well as Viza Construction and Premier International Holdings. The district court dismissed the claims under the Fugitive Disentitlement statute, 28 U.S.C. 2466, and denied Claimants' motion to stay the civil proceedings. The court concluded that the record supports a finding that Zarate remained outside the United States to intentionally avoid criminal prosecution. Therefore, the elements of section 2466 are met and the claims in opposition lack merit. Accordingly, the court affirmed the judgment. View "United States v. 2005 Pilatus Aircraft" on Justia Law