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Resolution relative to authorizing the purchase of various Police investigative equipment in a sum not to exceed $33,950.00.
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WHEREAS, in May 2017, the West Allis Police Department (WAPD) was notified of potential funding opportunities through the Joint Law Enforcement Operations (JLEO), provided by the Department of Justice’s Assets Forfeiture Fund (AFF). Purchases made are eligible for reimbursement as one-time Fiscal Year 2017 equipment purchases. Participation for the West Allis Police Department resulted from Detective Christina Porter being assigned to the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force (CETF). In mid-July 2017, the West Allis Police Department received approval from JLEO for purchases of equipment not to exceed $33,950.00; and
WHEREAS, a list of equipment items that would be approved for purchase/reimbursement under this program was reviewed by Administrative members of the Police Department. Several items were earmarked for purchase by way of need in the Criminal Investigations Unit, Forensic and Technical Services Unit, Special Investigations Unit, and S.W.A.T. Team. These Units frequently assist Det. Porter in her role as an FBI Task Force Officer (TFO), and equipment purchased would directly benefit Det. Porter and the FBI Task Force. In addition, the WAPD would benefit from having access to the equipment for non-Task Force related activity; and
WHEREAS, the items selected for purchase include: Body Bunker Shield, Light/Siren for TFO’s undercover vehicle, ATN Night Vision Binoculars, Cellbrite UFED 4PC (forensics-cell phone data extraction), Throwbot XT Robot, Digital Camera with assorted lens, Video Camera, and a Drug Scale; and
WHEREAS, the cost of one of the items above (Throwbot XT Robot) exceeds $10,000 (actual cost is $14.655.06 through a GSA Cooperative Contract); therefore, approval to purchase this item was sought and granted from the Police and Fire Commission at its meeting on August 17, 2017.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Common Council of the City of West Allis that the grant funds be accepted and purchase of the above-listed items, for an amount not to exceed $33,950.00, is hereby authorized. Funding for this project is provided by the Department of Justice’s Asset Forfeiture Fund (AFF), and the purchase will be charged to the Capital Projects Fund, Account #352-2101-521.70-03, Police Department Equipment.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the $33,950.00 will be reimbursed by the FBI provided paid invoices for the above items are provided to the FBI by September 15, 2017.
PCSD17-029
ADM\ORDRES\P\AFR04