Isn't there a pending case against this practice? I thought someone was suing some agency because of victim rights, Marsy's law, etc.
Regardless, if I'm you, I'm submitting a request to have the funds returned, because yes, they are fighting you. I'm also (assuming someone was convicted) requesting restitution for the costs incurred by the DPS. If the defendant requests a restitution hearing, I imagine any judge would blow a gasket over a victim getting charged fees by a public agency for return of property especially a constitutionally protected right.
Meanwhile, and if you want to take it further, you could call these guys for a free consultation:
https://michellawyers.com/practice-areas/firearms-law-group/ They're well established in fighting for firearms rights in California.
