The court shall in the action finally determine the merits of all claims to and liens upon the property and rights to property in question, and, in all cases where a claim or interest of the State therein is established, may direct a sale of such property and rights to property, by the proper officer of the court, and a distribution of the proceeds of such sale according to the findings of the court in respect to the interests of the parties and of the State.
N.J.S. § 54:29A-60