Sofia: The Bulgarian Constitutional Court has ruled that the legal provisions allowing for the confiscation of vehicles driven by individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs do not violate the Constitution. The case concerns a provision of the Criminal Code, adopted in 2023, which introduced stricter penalties for such offenses.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Constitutional Court emphasized that public sensitivity regarding road safety has significantly increased in recent years, and the lawmakers' intent is to impose enhanced criminal liability for offenses of key public interest.
The Court also noted that Bulgaria's legislative approach aligns with the practices of many European Union member states and other rule-of-law nations. This alignment underscores the country's commitment to maintaining public safety and upholding legal standards observed across the continent.
In addressing cases where a vehicle is not owned by the offender, the Court highlighted that the confiscation of its monetary equivalent ensures the constitutional principle of equality before the law. Without this measure, individuals committing the same crime would be treated differently based on vehicle ownership, the Court explained in its reasoning, thereby reinforcing the fairness and uniformity of the legal system.
