Title
Law Enforcement Investigation Equipment from Federal Law Enforcement Forfeiture Trust Funds (NB)
Explanation
The police department's Special Investigations Division is involved in many protracted investigations that require accurate, detailed presentation of the criminal case in court and state attorney hearings. The equipment proposed for purchase is designed for the Division's use during these criminal investigations and will enhance the case presentation for the investigator when they are in these court proceedings. It is also believed that the equipment will increase the successful prosecution and outcome of the criminal investigations, while reducing otherwise high personnel costs involved in the case preparation. The equipment sought additionally enhances the safety of officers who routinely conduct plainclothes operations and investigations. Due to the confidential nature of the Special Investigations Division, the information regarding the equipment is intentionally vague.
The Public Safety Committee, on May 15, 2003, approved this item to be forwarded to the full City Commission.
Fiscal Note
Funds for this expenditure 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 Law Enforcement Agencies". The balance in the account is $4,959,361.91. Balance is adjusted to account for pending items.
Recommendation
The City Commission approve the appropriation and expenditure of $77,600 from the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Trust Fund to specified source vendor Innovative Surveillance Technology, Coral Springs, Florida for law enforcement investigative equipment.