HomeMy WebLinkAbout(0007) M&C 19-0289City of Fort Worth, Texas
Mayor and Council Communication
DATE: 11/05/19 M&C FILE NUMBER: M&C 19-0289
LOG NAME: 35FY20 FEDERAL STATE ASSET FORFEITURE PROGRAMS
SUBJECT
Adopt Appropriation Ordinances in the Justice and State Asset Forfeiture Funds in the Amount of $433,736.00 for Fiscal Year 2020 (ALL
COUNCIL DISTRICTS)
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Adopt the attached appropriation ordinance increasing appropriations in the Justice Asset Forfeiture Fund in the amount of $266,945.00 and
decrease the assigned fund balance by the same amount; and
2. Adopt the attached appropriation ordinance increasing appropriations in the State Asset Forfeiture Fund in the amount of $166,791.00 and
decrease the assigned fund balance by the same amount.
DISCUSSION:
In the 35 plus years since the Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984, authorized federal officials implemented a national Asset Forfeiture
Program (Program). The Program has become a powerful tool for targeting criminals, including drug dealers and white collar criminals who prey
on the vulnerable for financial gain. Forfeiture statutes are now prevalent and their use, along with other important anti -crime measures, have a
significant impact on crime reduction.
One of the most important provisions of the Program is the authorization to share federal forfeiture proceeds with cooperating state and local law
enforcement agencies.
Funds received from the Program can only be used by the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) to purchase items that are permissible under
the U.S. Department of Justice Guide to Equitable Sharing for State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies and the Texas Code of Criminal
Procedure Chapter 59, Forfeiture of Contraband.
For Fiscal Year 2020, FWPD estimates using $433,736.00 of these funds to cover permissible law enforcement operating expenditures, which
include:
- Training
- Minor Equipment
- Uniforms
- Classified Services
- Grant Matches
These projects are located Citywide.
A Form 1295 is not required because: This M&C does not request approval of a contract with a business entity.
FISCAL INFORMATION / CERTIFICATION:
The Director of Finance certifies that upon approval of the above recommendations and adoption of the attached appropriation ordinances, funds
will be available in the current Justice Asset Forfeiture Fund and State Asset Forfeiture Fund as appropriated. Prior to an expenditure being
made, the Police Department has the responsibility to validate the availability of funds.
Submitted for City Manager's Office bT. Jay Chapa 5804
Originating Business Unit Head: Ed Kraus 4231
Additional Information Contact: Kristina Ashton 4224