A man has launched legal against police after officers seized $40,000 in cash from him at an airport, alleging it was drug money.
Lorry business owner Jerry Johnson, from North Carolina, was flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in August 2020 to purchase a new truck at an auction in Arizona when he was told to hand over $39,500 (£34,000) in cash.
Mr Johnson, owner of Triple J Trucking in Charlotte, is demanding the money is returned to him after the 'false accusation' by police has left him out of pocket for more than two years.
The man, who arrived at the airport with the cash, was set to fly to an auction in Phoenix to try and purchase a new semi-truck.
However, he was quickly apprehended by authorities who were suspicious about his motives, despite his actions being perfectly legal.
Mr Johnson, a black man, stated in his legal suit that officers believed he was part of a drug laundering scheme and the money was going to be used as part of an illegal drug trade.
Despite explaining to officers his motives, and alarmed with the prospect of being arrested, he handed over $39,500 to cops.
Mr Johnson returned home the next day, without being charged, and was left out of pocket and without a new truck.
He is still yet to receive the money as police still believe he was using his business as a front for an elaborate drug scheme.
Mr Johnson has not been charged with a crime after all these years, and his court appeal was lodged on Monday.
His initial case was dismissed by a local judge last year.
The businessman said in a statement: "I flew to Phoenix thinking I could get a good deal on a truck that would allow me to expand my business.
"Instead, the police took my money without ever charging me with a crime. It's been a struggle to lose my savings, and now my business is barely getting by.
"I'm fighting for my money, but I'm also fighting because this should never happen to anyone else."
The police department said local laws allowed officers to keep hold of items seized as part of a criminal investigation - despite Mr Johnson having never been charged.
The case is currently with the Arizona Court of Appeals and a decision on Mr Johnson's case is expected in the next few weeks.
