Title
Federal LECFTF funding for purchase of thirty six (36) Taser International X 26E Advanced Tasers and associated holsters, cartridges, replacement batteries and digital audio/video cameras.(B)
This item requests that the City Commission appropriate and expend an amount not to exceed $60,000.00 from the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Forfeiture Fund for the purchase of thirty six (36) Taser International X 26E Advanced Tasers and associated holsters, cartridges, replacement batteries and digital audio/video cameras for the Gainesville Police Department.
Explanation
The Public Safety Committee members discussed this purchase at the March 29, 2007 meeting and were given a presentation of the two year research that GPD staff conducted.
The X 26E Advanced Tasers provide a safer, more effective tool for law enforcement officers facing situations that pose threats to their safety and the safety of others. The Tasers are reliable devices that utilize innovative technology to stop resistive suspects and provide effective alternatives to other types of force.
As of 2006, Florida State Statute (FSS) 943.1717 mandates what use of force level a Taser must be placed and also mandates the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Committee create specific training topics, hours and recertification requirements. The Gainesville Police Department will follow or exceed both the Florida State Statute and CJSTC requirements in both policy and training.
Fiscal Impact
Funds will be appropriated of an amount not to exceed $60,000. Funds for this project are available in the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Forfeiture Trust Fund and is allowable per Federal 21 U.S.C.ยง 881, found in the U.S. Department of Justice "A Guide to Equitable Sharing of Federally Forfeited Property for State and Local Enforcement Agencies." Available balance is $863,624.
Recommendation
The Public Safety Committee recommends that the City Commission authorize the appropriation of an amount not to exceed $60,000 from the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Forfeiture Trust Fund for the purchase of thirty six (36) Taser International X26E Tasers and associated holsters, cartridges, replacement batteries and digital audio/video cameras.