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Bertram approves DHS task-force memorandum of agreement to train local officers
Summary
Council approved a memorandum of agreement to let local officers complete Department of Homeland Security task-force training and operate under task-force authority; the police chief said the program offers training, possible reimbursements and vehicle eligibility, while council questioned cost responsibilities and prosecution obligations.
The council approved a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Homeland Security to allow local officers to be trained as task force operators.
The police chief explained the program would permit trained officers to act as task force operators, which he said could streamline detention and processing for serious offenders and allow officers additional investigative tools. The chief said DHS would provide online training and that there were incentives: "We are eligible for a $100,000 vehicle after our 1st arrest, quarterly up to 1000 dollars per officer," the chief said, and noted DHS would reimburse some salary and benefit costs according to the agreement. Council members asked whether officers would complete the training on city time and who would pay for personnel costs; staff confirmed the memorandum states the law enforcement agency is responsible for personnel expenses (salaries, benefits and transportation) and that reimbursement to the city could occur on the back end. One staff member warned that if an offense carried a state charge as well as a federal charge, the memorandum requires the city to continue prosecution rather than stopping at the state offense.
After discussion about operational impacts and termination rights, the council voted to accept the memorandum of agreement. Staff noted they could terminate the agreement in writing if needed and that other jurisdictions (including a county example) reported limited change in daily operations after signing similar agreements.
