In a groundbreaking announcement, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg revealed a record-breaking $1.4 million in contributions to community organizations this year—all sourced from the DA’s Asset Forfeiture Fund. These funds, often a source of controversy, have been repurposed to breathe life into crime-prevention programs and services that uplift the community.

“When our justice system falls short, these organizations step in to bridge the gap,” said Ogg. “This year, we’re not just making history; we’re making a difference.”

A New Era of Giving

Ogg’s innovative approach marks a departure from her predecessors. While previous administrations allocated forfeiture funds toward office expenses, Ogg’s tenure has redirected them toward nonprofits and law enforcement agencies dedicated to community safety.

The list of beneficiaries includes:

• The Children’s Assessment Center: $760,000 to support abused children.
• Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council: $100,000 to empower young women.
• University of Houston: $63,235 to enhance educational programs tied to crime prevention.

This year’s contributions bring the total donations since 2020 to nearly $2.6 million—a remarkable feat considering the challenges posed by the pandemic.

The Asset Forfeiture Fund: From Seizure to Service

Forfeiture funds originate from assets seized during criminal activity. Once these assets go through rigorous legal proceedings and are deemed forfeited, they are allocated for law enforcement and community-focused purposes. By law, these funds cannot be used for salaries or general administrative expenses but must support crime prevention, victim services, or law enforcement initiatives.

“Every dollar is accounted for,” said Vivian King, Chief of Staff at the DA’s Office. “Our asset-forfeiture funds undergo annual audits by external CPA firms, and the results are reported to the governor.”

Building a Resilient Pipeline

With over $13 million still in the pipeline, Ogg is setting the stage for her successor to continue this impactful work. She dismissed any notion of depleting resources before leaving office, stating, “If the new administration chooses not to invest in these causes, the funds can remain untouched. But the need in our community is undeniable.”

Uplifting Houston’s Future

District Attorney Kim Ogg’s leadership has demonstrated that even controversial funds can be a force for good when used transparently and responsibly. Her legacy extends far beyond her term, leaving a roadmap for how seized assets can be leveraged to address systemic gaps and foster a safer, more supportive community.

As Houston looks toward the future, it’s clear that Ogg’s approach has set a high standard for innovation and accountability in public service.