This is why counter-suits against police departments are worthwhile; once you have a counterclaim, likely for more money than they seized, they'll be willing to settle.
During this time of pending marijuana legalization in Canada, my company has seen great success with federal suits against police departments. If one takes a cue from the scientology lawyers (file motions to get their lawyers removed for prejudicing the police's case with their bias, etc), you can drag the lawsuit out for two to three years, at which point the police will be unable to convert/sell the seized property, and will be practically begging you to take the stuff back.
During this time of pending marijuana legalization in Canada, my company has seen great success with federal suits against police departments. If one takes a cue from the scientology lawyers (file motions to get their lawyers removed for prejudicing the police's case with their bias, etc), you can drag the lawsuit out for two to three years, at which point the police will be unable to convert/sell the seized property, and will be practically begging you to take the stuff back.