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A Resolution authorizing an expenditure in the amount of $75,000 from Federal Forfeited Asset Fund (F.A.F.) monies for law enforcement operations and equipment; the initiation of the Mounted Patrol program by the Coral Gables Police Department.
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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 operations and equipment.
The Coral Gables Police Department has identified a need for a Mounted Patrol Program, in which officers fulfill specific responsibilities on horseback. Mounted patrols provide high visibility, crowd control, deter crime and can assist with community policing. The training associated with the officers and horses as part of this program is offered free of charge, and the Coral Gables Police Department has been allowed house the horses with another local agency. The Department intends run this pilot program for three years with two horses.
The F.A.F. Committee met on June 26, 2019 and approved this expenditure.