By Justin L. Mack

justin.mack@indystar.com

Officials are looking to hang on to the more than $3.4 million confiscated last fall during raids at dozens of Mexican restaurants in Indianapolis and other locations across the state.

In a civil forfeiture lawsuit filed Friday, the Tippecanoe County prosecutor's office accuses El Rodeo's owners and other parties in the businesses of obtaining the money illegally. Therefore, the suit claims, the defendants should forfeit the money and return it to the criminal justice system.

Marion County prosecutor's office spokeswoman Peg McLeish confirmed Tuesday that a similar civil forfeiture lawsuit has been filed in Marion County. She said details of the local case were not available.

A criminal forfeiture occurs after a defendant is convicted of a crime. In a civil forfeiture, such as the El Rodeo case, no one has been convicted.

Police across the state served search warrants Nov. 18 during raids at restaurants and homes. El ­Rodeo establishments in Indianapolis, Avon, Lafayette, West Lafayette, Richmond, Fortville and Mooresville were searched.

Other Mexican-themed restaurants also were raided, including El Jaripeo eateries in Indianapolis, Lebanon, Frankfort and Zionsville; Los Toros restaurants in Indianapolis; and three La Carreta Restaurant & Bars, in Schererville, Vincennes and Merrillville.

The Tippecanoe County lawsuit ­alleges that perjury and forgery ­occurred through falsified tax documents, business formation documents, employment records and tax returns.

In addition to the request for forfeiture of the cash, the suit asks the court:

• To grant a permanent injunction against further operation of alleged "racketeering activity."

• To require the defendants to divest themselves of any interests in the named restaurants and deliver the funds of divestment to the plaintiffs.

• To prevent the owners from reorganizing their businesses.

• To revoke any professional licenses the defendants might have from the state of Indiana.

Call Star reporter Justin L. Mack at

(317) 444-6138. Follow him on Twitter: @justinlmack.