Impound

To impound is a verb that refers to the act of legally taking possession of something, especially property or goods, by an authority, such as law enforcement or government. This often occurs in situations where the item in question is deemed to be illegal, abandoned, or involved in a violation of regulations. The term can also pertain to holding animals or vehicles until specific conditions are met. Impounding serves as a method of enforcing laws and regulations to ensure public safety and proper order.

Impound meaning with examples

• After the police found the vehicle abandoned on the roadside, they decided to impound it, keeping it in their lot until the owner could be identified. This action was consistent with local law, which allows authorities to seize property that might pose a danger or nuisance.
• The authorities started to impound illegal fireworks from vendors during the annual festival. Numerous violations were reported, prompting officials to act swiftly to remove dangerous materials and ensure the safety of the festival-goers and surrounding community.
• Due to the repeated violations of zoning laws, the city council voted to impound several construction vehicles left on private property without permission. The decision aimed to enforce the laws and protect residents from any potential disturbances.
• Animal control can impound stray dogs or cats that are found roaming without owners. Once impounded, the animals are taken to a shelter where they are cared for and made available for adoption if they remain unclaimed by their owners for a specified period.
• In light of the suspect’s criminal activities, the court issued an order to impound his assets, including luxury cars and properties. This freezing of assets serves as a preventative measure to ensure the defendant doesn’t profit from illegal activities during the proceedings.