Title
A Resolution authorizing an expenditure in the amount of $31,500, from Federal Forfeited Asset Fund (F.A.F.) monies for law enforcement equipment, the purchase of rescue phone equipment for utilization by the Coral Gables Police Department.
Body
The Coral Gables Police Department participates with federal law enforcement agencies of the United States Departments of Justice, Treasury and/or Homeland Security in joint law enforcement investigations. The Coral Gables Police Department’s participation in those joint federal - local investigations produces federally seized funds. At the discretion of the United States Attorney General under United States Statute: 18 U.S.C. Section 981 (e)(2), and 21 U.S.C. Section 881 (e)(1)(A) and (e)(3)(b), the Coral Gables Police Department may lawfully receive equitable shares of the federally seized funds at the conclusion of the legal proceedings.
The “Guide to Equitable Sharing for State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies” by the United States Department of Justice provides that the equitably shared forfeited asset funds resulting from the participation of a local agency in investigations with Federal law enforcement agencies may be utilized by the participating local agency for law enforcement equipment.
The Coral Gables Police Department’s Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT) has identified a need to upgrade its current rescue phone equipment in order to properly address critical incidents, including hostage situations. The best practice for CNT personnel in these situations is to initiate and maintain communication through electronic means at a distance, particularly through the use of equipment that allows for third party listening. Upon the evaluation of rescue phones, the Police Department has selected a customized unit that takes advantage of newer technologies, including improvements to micro-cameras, infrared illuminators, hardened cabling and connectors, and more rugged and durable exteriors that reduce the ...
Click here for full text