Brooklyn Heights approves shared video arraignment equipment; police rescind forfeiture payment request pending review

The Village of Brooklyn Heights Council approved purchasing video equipment to participate in a Parma-coordinated remote arraignment system and heard that a request to pay County Court forfeiture invoices was withdrawn pending legal review.

Police Chief Leahy told Council Parma Municipal Court is coordinating with surrounding communities to install video equipment allowing remote arraignments, which would reduce prisoner transports. The total system cost is $5,579; the Village's share was reported as $1,116. Hudson moved to purchase the equipment for $1,116 (seconded by Presot); the motion carried 5-0.

Chief Leahy also reported the County Court submitted invoices related to cash forfeitures from 2020 and 2022 totaling $1,072.20 and initially requested Council approval to remit one-fifth share to the County under court policy. Assistant Law Director Mary Mason asked for time to verify the request, and Chief Leahy rescinded the motion request pending that review.

Leahy said two recent hires completed field training and are working independently; background checks continue for two open positions. Resident Jason Berger asked about enforcement of the closed basketball courts and noted the chain blocking the courts is loose enough for people to squeeze through; Chief Leahy acknowledged the enforcement concern.

Next steps: Police will proceed with procurement of the approved video equipment and will update Council on staffing and the outcome of the legal review of the forfeiture invoices.