Safety Committee Approves $13K Renewal for Cellebrite Subscription in New Orleans

The McMinnville Safety Committee convened on August 29, 2025, to address a critical funding issue regarding a subscription renewal for essential law enforcement technology. The committee discussed a quote from Cellebrite, amounting to $13,001.98, necessary to maintain a subscription for a tool that has proven invaluable in criminal investigations.

This subscription, initially funded through a grant in 2024, is now past due, leaving the police department unable to utilize the technology that aids in unlocking and extracting data from mobile devices. Detective Summers highlighted the tool's effectiveness in solving serious cases, including homicides and child abuse, emphasizing the urgency of renewing the subscription to avoid delays in investigations.

During the meeting, committee members explored potential budget adjustments to cover the cost, with assurances that funds could be identified. The chief of police confirmed that the department is currently short-staffed, with three positions unfilled, which has impacted operations.

After a brief discussion, the committee unanimously approved the motion to renew the subscription, ensuring that law enforcement can continue to access this critical resource for community safety. The meeting concluded with no further business, reaffirming the committee's commitment to supporting local law enforcement efforts.