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Council approves federal forfeiture purchases for police K-9, mapping software and gear
Summary
Council authorized use of federal forfeiture funds to buy a K‑9 ($15,000), mapping software ($15,000) and GPS tracking equipment (about $2,000) and approved equipment for SWAT/Okaloosa Drug Task Force operations.
Chief-level staff explained that federal forfeiture funds resulting from Okaloosa Drug Task Force activity are available for limited law-enforcement uses and requested council approval to spend funds on a K‑9 (training and purchase, $15,000), mapping software ($15,000) for investigative work, a pole camera to enhance officer safety during high-risk warrants, and GPS tracking equipment (about $2,000). The chief explained the funds derive from task-force cases and noted an expected additional check of about $30,000 from a recent case.
Councilman Echols moved to approve the forfeiture purchases and Councilwoman Allison seconded; the motion passed by voice vote 4–0 with one absence. The chief framed the purchases as targeted uses allowed by law and emphasized officer safety and investigative efficiency.
