§ 8859. Libel and proceedings by United States attorney

• (a) Upon receiving the report of the prize master directed by section 8858 of this title , the United States attorney for the district shall promptly—
  • (1) file a libel against the prize property;
  • (2) obtain a warrant from the court directing the marshal to take custody of the prize property; and
  • (3) proceed to obtain a condemnation of the property.
• (b) In connection with the condemnation proceedings the United States attorney shall insure that the prize commissioners—
  • (1) take proper preparatory evidence; and
  • (2) take depositions de bene esse of the prize crew and of other transient persons who know any facts bearing on condemnation.